Thread: Thumb nail test

Hi guys,

I just read the article on the sharpness tests one more time
and I'd like to share my personal perspective of the TNT.

It is the most indicative test for me. I can tell
if the edge is dull, coarse, keen and overhoned. When
test gives me the "keen edge" feel the edge is very close to
shave ready (only touch up required).

I do understand that this test is bad for the edge
so I give a few very light strokes more on the 4k right after
I get the feeling of a keen edge on my thumb nail.

Needless to say that my final test is shaving.

Its a very good test. I don't know about almost shave ready as I wouldn't do that after the 1k. Even after doing it after the 1k I do 10 laps to restore it to pre TNT.

I am an infant in the learning curve of this craft.. but I see the TNT as one of the tests that would indicate the bevel is set, not that the edge is near shave ready. Not something to do once you've left the 1k either.

I see. Well, the TNT shows me all the states that a razor's edge can be in.
I felt all the conditions the edge can be with the same razor using the TNT.

I'm fresh at this too, but I only use the TNT to find when my bevel has made it to the edge. Once that bevel is set, I only test with arm hairs through the polishing stages all the way to shave test.

The only time I use the thumbnail test is to check for dings and chips in the edge, once the bevel setting and honing are in play I do not use the TNT as it will only dull what you have already done.

Just try to shave something. If it shaves your arm hair or facial hair, you'll know its ready.

For me, I find the TNT to be 100%. If it slides its not set. If it digs in and feels consistently sticky and gritty I feel thats an indicator. I always do a visual to follow the striations which is like a pre test but i always verify with the TNT. Now gritty to me means consistent diggy feeling throughout the edge, no variation in the feel at all. Dont forget to do additional laps to return the edge o pre TNT. The test dulls somewhat.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/honing/107590-tnt.html

good stuff near the end, same subject.

Originally Posted by WadePatton

http://straightrazorpalace.com/honing/107590-tnt.html

good stuff near the end, same subject.

I guess with any test YMMV, but in the TNT thread I've tried to take it from abstract to definitive as I found there wasn't an absolute answer on this site. It's only a personal interpretation but I've tried to be more specific in giving a route map to any who may follow.
I'm hoping that further comments will make this test clearer for those who want to try it.
So yes some repetition but hopefully some new stuff as well.