Thread: Newbie on a Norton 4/8

I got into straights earlier this summer and got a Dovo from The Superior Shave. I used it professionally honed for about 6 weeks when I decided to get a Norton 4/8. Well, I have probably honed about 4 times in the past month and can barely get a passable shave. So, I have a couple basic questions while I am reading all the other "newb" threads to figure out this new obsession:

1) I read on the comments of one of Lynn's videos that the newer Nortons need about an 1/8" lapped off initially due to "gritiness". I notice that my 4k feels very rough/gritty....do I need to keep lapping this thing smooth? I wondering if this is part of my problem, along with lack of technique.

2) Is there anyone that lives in the Philly area that would be willing to provide some mentoring?

Thanks in advance, gents.

-Mark

Check out gssixgun videos on you tube. He goes through the entire process of lapping your stones and honing using the 4/8k nortons.

I believe that most "professional" honers use stones (and/or pastes) at higher grits than 8K for their final finish. That's one of the ways they get their nice edges.

It is possible to get a shavable edge from an 8K stone if you're _very_ gentle, using slow strokes and just the weight of the razor on the stone -- or even less pressure than that.

If you took an "almost-right" edge and put it on a 4K stone, you have done some damage that needs to be corrected. Either you'll learn to do it, or you'll send the razor out for another honing.

Charles

I have no idea about the new Nortons - mine is over 6 years old and still going OK. If Lynn mentioned it, and you are feeling it, then I would do something about it if I were you.

Most likely though the main culprit is technique. Honing is a skill that requires time really - lots of (correct) practice. So read as much as you can, watch the honing videos that are available (especially take a look in the JaNorton thread which was done earlier in the year and is all about the Norton 4/8), and keep at it.

James.

Originally Posted by skioutwest

I notice that my 4k feels very rough/gritty....do I need to keep lapping this thing smooth?

Simple answer. Yes. A rough stone will not allow you to progress.

Thanks to everyone for your feedback. I lapped it a few more times and it does appear to be getting smoother.

Another adjustment I made was to put the stone on top of the case, as opposed to leaving it sit on a towel. It definitely allows me to keep the blade flat on the stone easier.

Thanks again.

-Mark

One little tip is to check out the JaNorton thread here.
It is a really useful thread with tons of advice on various uses of that very versatile hone