Thread: Hand Held Honing

Very interesting indeed. Not sure if I would ever have the bravery to hold the hone in the hand as I hone. I'd be too worried the pressure would be uneven. But I suppose when one is experienced enough...

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Barbers hones are meant to be held in the hand. That's how barbers used them. For heavier work I think most would rather have a stone lying on a counter or table. Personally, I never liked holding a stone in my hand no matter the size or grit or length of time. It's just one of those personal preferences I guess.

I also hand hold my smaller coticules; however, this is essentially out of necessity when I travel. It is possible to get a very light touch with hand holding a stone, balsa, or leather strop. But this is at the risk of less precision. A solid surface provides more consistent contact with spine and bevel than can be achieved while hand holding. Perhaps that is why no one here seems ready to hone the lower grits while hand holding. When I have the option, I prefer a solid surface, even for my finishing work.