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