Thread: Using Shapton Stones

Took another plunge today, and picked up a Shapton 16k stone (already had the 1k, 4k, 6k, and 8k). I was really surprised at what a huge difference in sharpness there was in my blades after using the 16k! Even my Mehaz razor, that I just couldn't get sharp no matter what i did, became extremely usable with the new stone. I had buyers remorse all the way home (they're very expensive) but that went away as soon as I saw the results on the first blade. if anyone else is considering one of these high grit stones I really recommend it!

Which ones did you get?

Best barber hone made IMO too! Welcome to the Shapton club

Originally Posted by Utopian

Which ones did you get?

Sorry didn't see the first post. Now I know you got the Shapton Pro series. Did you get the Pro or GlassStone 16k?

Yeah, I love my Shapton 16k, a very nice stone, though I've only tried it and my Norton 4/8. I really think these two is all one 'needs'. For the rare occasion I need to set a bevel I do so with 4k wet and dry wrapped around the Norton 4/8.

The Shapton 16k is very aggressive (i.e. fast)...

Utopian, the 16k i picked up uesterday is glass. I am amazed at the edge this16k stone puts on my blades!

Glad you are happy with it. Just don't get carried away with the number of strokes on it. The feedback is so great it's hard to stop but that hone rarely requires more than 10 strokes.

Originally Posted by Utopian

Glad you are happy with it. Just don't get carried away with the number of strokes on it. The feedback is so great it's hard to stop but that hone rarely requires more than 10 strokes.

Even when using it as a barber hone...start with 8-10 strokes, strop, & shave. Then, if necessary another 8-10. I guess that's why I really like the SHapton GS stones: less work & excellent feedback.

I love my Shaptons too - all I ever use. I've become a big fan of the 30K after mastering it's use - it completely eliminates the need for pastes etc and the edges are ridiculously sharp...

-john

Originally Posted by ocelot27

I love my Shaptons too - all I ever use. I've become a big fan of the 30K after mastering it's use - it completely eliminates the need for pastes etc and the edges are ridiculously sharp...

-john

Me too. Ironically in the time I've owned my 30k I've "mastered" stones that are seemingly more tricky to use, such as jnats, but only recently have I really figured out the 30k. I'm finding more and more that stone hygiene and short, light strokes are absolutely key. When I keep my strokes short I can go as long as I want on the stone and get what I think is a "true" 30k edge.