I am new to straight shaving, and brand new to honing. I am interested in a barber's hone as i have heard they are great for touch ups, which can make your edge last longer between bull honing sessions if done properly.

I would prefer a brand new, never used barber hone as I dont trust myself to lap a stone correctly, or even be able to identify a stone that needs to be lapped. but this seems like it is impossible to find.

are all barber hones vintage? do they not make them anymore? and if so, why? it seems as though there is at least a small demand for a brand new barber hone, but i cant seem to find one, am i missing something?

Also, if i am forced to go the vintage route, how would i identify a hone that needs to be lapped?

thanks everyone. the knowledge ive gained from this forum has made my shaving experience much more enjoyable, thanks for sharing!

james