Thread: Shapton GS and Naniwa SS - Feedback/Feel, Keenness, Smoothness and Consistency

no kidding Supernas. I realize that the Shaptons are between 1.3 and 1.5 times the cost of Naniwa SS (approximately, and depends on where, what set pricey you can fined etc), but the big price influence is the lapping plate and there are far less expensive alternatives to the DGLP (ie. the D8 course grit) Sadly, I could pick up a complete range of Naniwas almost half as much as the 4-step Shapton setup....

But I was looking for input regarding the characteristics of the stones before weighing cost.

Originally Posted by str8rzr

no kidding Supernas. I realize that the Shaptons are between 1.3 and 1.5 times the cost of Naniwa SS (approximately, and depends on where, what set pricey you can fined etc), but the big price influence is the lapping plate and there are far less expensive alternatives to the DGLP (ie. the D8 course grit) Sadly, I could pick up a complete range of Naniwas almost half as much as the 4-step Shapton setup....

But I was looking for input regarding the characteristics of the stones before weighing cost.

Prices

Naniwa SS
1
3
8
12
----
$206.96


Shapton GS
1
4
8
16
----
$361.00

Plus the DMT 325 lapping plate because it works for either one $46.99


Prices from SRD today, price wise the Naniwa SS are a steal of a deal against any set up you can think of...

Even against a bargain deal

Norton 220/1, 4/8 and a Chinese PHIG = $171.99


This is one reason many of us that have used them tell people to buy them the price is great and the performance is excellent

edit: the prices reflect the full Naniwas the deal can get better with the combo pacs

To me, the biggest difference remains in the feel of the the stones. The Naniwa SS stones have a very nice but softer feel to them. I have said since I first tested them, that they feel like they were made for straight razors. The Shapton Glass stones on the other hand, because of their ceramic nature simply feel a little harder, but still have very nice feedback. I like the Shapton Carbon Glass stones too, although not available in all grits and they may have a tad more feedback than the regular glass stones. From a results standpoint, I have no preference with either of these. I have no problems with any razors doing anything but getting sharp from using them. I have probably done close to 10 thousand razors with each of these hone sets and would continue to recommend their use. Both are very reliable and consistent.

On lapping plates, I do love the GDLP, but because of the expense, the DMT works well on all my hones including the Nortons and Naturals.

I have tried too test most stones that have ever been discussed here at SRP and other forums over the years and there are a lot of stones that CAN get a razor shaving sharp. Some easier and more consistent than others. It will boil down to what you find you can get the best results from and the only way to find that out is to hone as much as you can to build up your knowledge base if that is what you're after.

Have fun.

Yes, the price is a difference, but the shaptons are harder, a little faster, they last longer. If you are planning using them for more than a couple of times, there is no actual price difference. If I were you with the experience I have now I would buy a king 1k one yellow lake and a C12k. 100$ all together and they will last. But not for inexperienced users.

Thanks to everyone. I think I finally have a handle on the characteristics of each stone. I just have to determine which I like better and take the plunge...

Originally Posted by Lynn

To me, the biggest difference remains in the feel of the the stones. The Naniwa SS stones have a very nice but softer feel to them. I have said since I first tested them, that they feel like they were made for straight razors. The Shapton Glass stones on the other hand, because of their ceramic nature simply feel a little harder, but still have very nice feedback. I like the Shapton Carbon Glass stones too, although not available in all grits and they may have a tad more feedback than the regular glass stones. From a results standpoint, I have no preference with either of these. I have no problems with any razors doing anything but getting sharp from using them. I have probably done close to 10 thousand razors with each of these hone sets and would continue to recommend their use. Both are very reliable and consistent.

On lapping plates, I do love the GDLP, but because of the expense, the DMT works well on all my hones including the Nortons and Naturals.

I have tried too test most stones that have ever been discussed here at SRP and other forums over the years and there are a lot of stones that CAN get a razor shaving sharp. Some easier and more consistent than others. It will boil down to what you find you can get the best results from and the only way to find that out is to hone as much as you can to build up your knowledge base if that is what you're after.

Have fun.

Lynn!
How long does the shapton GS last? Have you worn out any stone of the GS set?

In case anyone was wondering, I've decided to invest in the Shaptons, with the Shapton accessories. (1K 4K 8K 16K, holder, DGLP).

Why? I picked the Shaptons over the Naniwa for the fact that I think I would prefer the harder feel, more aggressive cutting action, the longer life, and more obvious feedback of when to continue to the next grit.

After mastery of the 4-stone progression tested by shaving with my work, I would like to see what felt/pastes have to offer for finishing. But If true HAD kicks in, I might explore natural stones for finishing, and other possibilities for bevel setting, but that is very far into the journey. I do, after all, want this to be fun!

Thanks for all the feedback and great tips.

Happy Holidays Everyone!
Chris

Only thing I can say is I HATE THE NANIWA SS 800! It's a muddy
stone.

Sharpman