Thread: I've got a Norton 4k/8k & 12k Chinese...do I need a coticule?

I've gotten to the point where I can get a razor more or less shave ready. Still no honemeister by any means. I've got the 2 basic Norton Stones and a Chinese stone from Woodcraft.

Does a coticule produce that much of a better edge that its worth having one?
Would it replace other stones?

Thanks for your help.

You do not need a coticule. For right now I would continue to use the stones that you have until you are proficient with them.
In all reality the only other hone you may need for the rest of your existence is a 1k bevel setter and a DMT 325. These aren't needed either unless you decide to start restoring edges.
Later you may decide that you want a different finisher, but I would really try to get a hang ont these first.

I agree with everything above. Learn what you can from these hones before going after others. Make sure that you can get a comfortable shave off of the Norton 8k; and then do refining on the Chinese hone. Determine whether or not you can notice a difference.

In order to help slow you down a bit, I would like to point out that it can be problematic to compare one natural stone with another. The Chinese hones differ, and so do the coticules.

Originally Posted by deighaingeal

You do not need a coticule. For right now I would continue to use the stones that you have until you are proficient with them.
In all reality the only other hone you may need for the rest of your existence is a 1k bevel setter and a DMT 325. These aren't needed either unless you decide to start restoring edges.
Later you may decide that you want a different finisher, but I would really try to get a hang ont these first.

+1..... I normally recommend the Nortons to beginners. They sell a set, the 220/1 and 4/8, those, and your Chinese 12k should hold you for a while. The aforementioned 220/1 k stone is good for repairs and bevel setting. A coticule will not replace them. A Coticule produces a different edge, and since it's a natural hone, there are variances between them. Coticules have an almost cult following and among the faithful, and are known for one stone honing. You want to have a solid foundation before you start messing with any naturals. I look at it like this, Imagine having no backround in math, and starting out with Calculus. Some Coticules are hard, pale yellow, or even green. They make a good finisher, but a lousy cutter, forget about setting a bevel. Then, the other end of the spectrum, Soft, some are salmon colored, they make better cutters. It's hard to get just the right one. You may have to go through several stones before you find it IME...I know, I used to sell them.

You have more than enough right now. Lynn used to shave off of a Norton 8000. Your Chinese could benefit from a slurry stone from Zib. It will help speed the finishing process. Stay with what you have for now. Learn them well. Plenty of time to get a natural stone. (You already have one with the Chinese.) Good luck!!!