For new honer: nani 5k/8k SS or norton 4k/8k combo?

Hello all,

I am thinking about finally getting into honing. I was wondering what people thought about the difference in the naniwa superstones 5k and 8k or the norton 4k/8k.

Is there a difference in feedback?
One easier to lap than the other?

Things like that. If they're not too much different, I like the nani SS because they will match my nani 12k once I get into finishing, after learning to shave off 8k. Also is there a noticeable difference in nani 3k and 5k? Would a 3k be better for a newb?

Thanks

Unless you have a pile of razors in need of honing. It would be easier to start with touching up razors. But the deep end is fun to.

Jonathan

I can definitely see how you'd be right. I already sort of touch up with pasted strop. However, one day I will want to shave with an edge I beveled and I finished. Whether I get all the equipment now or one piece at a time or start with a finishing hone is immaterial. I just wanted to get input so I could start deciding now. I do appreciate the advice.

Also, my birthday is coming up soon and the Mrs. has been asking for ideas for a gift. A big reason why I'm trying to quickly decide to go with an all Naniwa set (one piece at a time) (good Johnny Cash song haha) or a mix of norton and Naniwa.

I don't have either stone set. But either brand would serve well from what I have read. Sorry that I can't be of real help. If I were in your position I would be very tempted by the Naniwa SS set.

Jonathan

If you want to get into honing, lookup Lynn's circle method video on naniwas on YouTube.
It's seriously foolproof and I had the first razor I honed shaving incredibly well.

He uses progression of naniwas: 1k, 5k, 8k, 12k then he strops with 0.5k diamond paste which I didn't do, just stropped normally and shaved away.

I did read on this forum that naniwas play better with each other rather than with mixed sets.

If you already have a 12k nani, stick whit those imo, buy a naniwa working stone 1/3 k the 1k you need for set the beffel. And a 8k nani super stone.

The nani are easy to lap and in use they are great an fast.
Good luck with your decision.
Happy birtday already.

You can flip a coin on this one. I have both Norton and Naniwa and can get the exact same results with either brand.

I have a Naniwa 12k hone but nothing else as of yet. I have heard that the Norton 4k/8k + Naniwa 12k is a great combo. A forum member mentioned not long ago that the lower grit Naniwa stones have to be lapped more due to the nature/material of the hone. I don't remember exactly what was said, but it was along the lines of the Naniwa's getting a little "spikey" in various spots. Also, the Naniwas can't be stored in water. I don't understand why one would want to though...

I've got both sets and can confirm that the results are very similar.
For a beginner I would advice the Norton set for a couple of reasons:
The Norton is harder and requires less frequent lapping.
The Norton is a bit slower therefore is a bit more forgiving.
Both sets are fully compatible with the 12k.

I have Norton 4/8. No complaints. The naniwas don't need soaking so that's a plus. nortons need 10 minute dunk before honing. But that doesn't bother me too much. They aren't as thirsty as the Norton 1k. That's why I mostly use the dmt 1200 for bevels. I finish on film, but my 4/8,(the 4k side mostly) is my workhorse. IMO everyone who hones should get a bevel setter in the 1k range. Even with new blades, I always start at the 1k. The most valuable stone in the whole progression is the bevel setter. If it aint set you got nothing.