Naniwa SS 12k vs Shapton GS 16k: Which one to buy?

Hello all,

I'm about to buy some new honing equipment; I already decided for the naniwa 1000 as a grinding stone to set the initial bevel, but I have some concern on the polishing stone to buy.

Can you share your experience with naniwa 12k and shapton 16k?

These are the two stones I identified as the possible ones to buy.
Consider that, at least for the moment, I'm not using posted strops, so the razor would just go from the finisher to the linen strop and then leather strop.

What would you guys recommend?

Both are stellar finishers, and will provide a finely polished edge in experienced hands.
The Shapton is a harder stone, and requires a little less flattening.
The Naniwa is quite soft, but will leave a very smooth cutting edge.

It all comes down to preference, and what other stones you intend to ue in your progresion.

Hi Birnando,

I already have a Norton combination 4k/8k. I can get a proper edge with the Norton, but a bit harsh, I'm looking to get a smoother (and sharper) edge.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by dzacca

Hi Birnando,

I already have a Norton combination 4k/8k. I can get a proper edge with the Norton, but a bit harsh, I'm looking to get a smoother (and sharper) edge.

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In that case, I would get the Naniwa 12K.
I have honed many a razor using that progression, it works a charm:)

Birnando,

one last question ;)

You mentioned the Naniwa being softer than the shapton. Can I lap it with the sandpaper method or does it require a lapping stone? In the latter case, what stone would your recommend (without having to spend a insanely high amount of money for it ;) )?

IMO sandpaper is fine. just did my new Naniwa 12k last week.
Grant

Quote:

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Originally Posted by baldy

IMO sandpaper is fine. just did my new Naniwa 12k last week.
Grant

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Cool! Thanks baldy! How do you like your new naniwa? I'd love to read feedbacks from a few users ;)

I really like my Naniwa 12k, but the poor thing hasn't seen much use as I've been teaching myself how to finish with a coticule. Can't speak for the Shapton as I don't own any shaptons, but the edge from the Naniwa 12k is very nice!

Just to help push you back the other way and add to your indecision, I love my Shapton 16K. I also use a Norton 220/1000 and 4K/8K for the progression. I also have a Norton lapping stone, but I got that before I found out that most here use a DMT 325. Oh well, I'm doing fine, even though it takes a bit more breaking in and work to get the Norton 4K/8K stones flattened.

Back to the Shapton 16K - it just feels insanely expensive, like something you should carry in the inside pocket of your Armani tuxedo. It finishes very well, and as fine as it is, you can still change your results greatly with a change in pressure. Generally, start with more pressure and then lighten up as you go. You can see the metal coming off against the white surface and it's certainly fine enough for touching up a razor, much like a barber hone, but all you need is a little water - you don't need to drown it like the Nortons. So, it's a little handier to pull out for touch-ups than other water stones.

Good advice here! The general consensus is that for new people the 12k Naniwa is better than the 16k Shapton. Being less agressive and softer, it is easier to get nice edges with it in the beginning.