1k to 5k is fine, it takes a few more strokes compared to 3-5k jump.
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For me it's Chosera 1, nw 3/8, nw 12, then finish on coti, thurry or escher.
I agree there's a gap between 8 and 12, but you've got that covered. I find 3 and 8 ok, but use a pyramid.
My advice would be to get the 3/8 because it gives you a three, and an eight, :) which will let you compare to the natural, and/but be perhaps a bit more trustworthy, which, imho, is the most important thing when you're learning to hone.
Ed, I have the Naniwa 1k, 5k, 8k, 12k. Really useful set that covers just about everything. If I were well-off I'd add a 3k.
I've hone 2/3 of my razors myself. Have the nani ss 1, 5, 8 ,10 ,12. Started with the 1, 5, 10 and Escher though. My vote is the five. That said I'll get the 3 later just so I have the set.
http://www.sharpeningsupplies.com/Naniwa-C97.aspx?UserID=72022749&SessionID=r8{hN2AoRmIax1V PF2yf
It's all personal taste as far as that goes. For a resto I go 1k chocera, 2k naniwa green aoto, 5kss, 8kss if its taken a good edge by then, if it's being a pain then 8k naniwa snow white...this one gives a much keener edge to me, then 12ss to finish, I also have a 6k takenoko I break out for the heck of it sometimes, it gives a smooth edge but a hazier finish like a japanese nati. The 3k just makes the process a bit quicker, but I didn't like the feel of it (little soft to me). I think the 1, 5, 8, 12 is a perfect progression.
This bloke reckons 1 -> 5k works ok. :)
http://straightrazorpalace.com/video...ml#post1031788