Thread: Honing questions.

Originally Posted by sweeneychris

Hi guys I am looking to start doing my own honing, I have been sending my razors away but came to the conclusion that I should really start doing my own.
The only problem is I have a few questions if you could help:-
1,what grits should I have? Is there a few "must have's"

Standard starting set up is Norton 1k, 4/8k, CrO or Diamond spray on linen/felt/leather.
As far as must have obviously 1k for bevel setting , then 3 or 5k , and an 8k. You can add higher grits if you want later when you learn how to get the best out of the 8k stone.

2, is the norton stones the best out there and nothing else will do or is it personal preference? I have seen some welsh and Japanese stones for good prices.

There is no best stone set up. There are a bunch very well tested systems that all work well if you know what you are doing. Norton is a one of those systems, there is also Super stones by Naninwa, and Shapton Glass. Do not jump into naturals just yet, you need to learn to set bevels, then get the best out of your synthetic progression before you can get any benefit from a natural. When you decide to get a natural stone you need to do a very good research of what stones are going to work and what are not. Some naturals will refine 8k synthetic edge some will not. Buying Jnats from unknown sellers usually results in buying stone that is good for door stop only. If you want a quality Jnat get it from a reputable seller.

3, would you recommend getting some razors to practice on rather my best ones?

Thanks guys

I'd use practice razor to learn honing.