I have what was sold to me as a translucent black arkansas stone, and out of the stones that I've used and own it provides me the sharpest and longest lasting edges. However, it is more than a little crisp on my face, and it takes several shaves to mellow out. Recently I purchased a small dark blue E&Co. stone that I go to after my arkie for about 15 or 20 strokes. After that, I find the edge to be right where I like it. I also tried the E&Co after both my 8k Norton and my coticule, and I was not impressed with the edge at all........ So, to reiterate what some other members have already touched on, the Escher isn't a magical stone. You have to bring your A-game to the Escher to get its full benefit.