Thread: Buttery feel off of a 12K? Huh?!

Gentlemen, I had a curious shave.

After about 4 months of regular use my Thiers-Issard was not up to snuff. Thought I'd bring it back to the stones. I've always felt the steel on a TI a little harder than most, so I bring it down to the Naniwa SS 8k for about 15 light laps, then up to the Naniwa SS 12K for 10 light followed by 10 feather light.

Interesting, rather than the crisp sharpness I usually get, it felt...like a Coti? My first pass usually reduces about 85% of my stubble, with another 10% and 5% on the following two passes - the first shave doubles for how I usually "shave test" my edges. Anyway, this reduction was about 70%, 15%, 15%...and didn't really feel all that sharp. Not tugging, but definitely a little more work. That being said, I rinsed off to a great smooth face with absolutely no tingle with aftershave. My face felt wonderful throughout the day. I thought it might have been poor prep, but the follow up shave was pretty much the same.

I'm not complaining, but am curious about the edge. The bevel's sound, as indicated by the comfortable shave (and it was only a touch up) but neither an 8K or 12K edge should feel "buttery." I'll probably keep it as is, or maybe try a few licks on the 12K again...but was wondering if these clues were indicative of another issue? Does it sound like I didn't quite remove the 8K striations? I'll keep playing with it, just thought I'd throw it out there to hear if anyone else has an idea...

Did you check that the edge is consistent all over its length?

A 12K should not provide a buttery feel? If you think you need a 16K or a 30K to provide this you are misinformed. A 12K quality stone in the right hands will get you to shaving nirvana. For that matter an 8K should just about do it too.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

A 12K should not provide a buttery feel? If you think you need a 16K or a 30K to provide this you are misinformed. A 12K quality stone in the right hands will get you to shaving nirvana. For that matter an 8K should just about do it too.

Whew Thanks Nelson, I thought I was the only one slightly confused with this thread...

I read it twice then waited to post because I was sure I misunderstood it,, I concur a 8k should get you a great shave a 12k should make it even smoother...
Everyone's face is different and I am all for using different finishers once you learn them, but there seems to be an acceptance that Synthetic hones are going to be "Crisp" feeling, myself I think you are creating a self-fulfilling outcome.. Getting the edge to fit your face and the steel takes practice it really is just that simple...

"No amount of money spent on a Stone can replace the time it takes learning to use it"

Sorry Guys, I did a poor job of explaining.

I always get a sharp, crisp finish after an 8K and a 12K. This time I got a buttery feel off of the 12K...and new something was wrong.
I did get a good shave, so feel the bevel is set.

I guess I am still lost,,

The Naniwa SS system is exactly my goto set up for those Hard as Hell TI blades, they create a really silky smooth edge when I do my job correctly..

From your posts it seems you are getting better using the Naniwas on the TI, basically you are taking the edge to a new level, but heck if I know..
I am not quite sure what you are asking I guess..

Originally Posted by gssixgun

From your posts it seems you are getting better using the Naniwas on the TI, basically you are taking the edge to a new level, but heck if I know..

That's kind of what I was thinking too - that your honing technique has evolved to a point where you're noticing a tangible difference. Now the tricky bit (assuming you like the new buttery-ness, will be remembering what the heck you did differently this time around.

It is surprising what pressure can do and how hard it is to explain what and how it works.

This is one of the best explanations I have seen, posted here long ago by Seraphim.

Yes, the 12k is the standard.
.

Originally Posted by Cangooner

... that your honing technique has evolved to a point where you're noticing a tangible difference. Now the tricky bit (assuming you like the new buttery-ness, will be remembering what the heck you did differently this time around.

nothing quite like that feeling...

discovering a buttery edge developed at your hand on your stones,

and then trying to remember EXactly how you did it. DoH!

Originally Posted by gssixgun

..."No amount of money spent on a Stone can replace the time it takes learning to use it"

Perhaps the wisest, simplest advice I've heard all year when it comes to hones / stones and honing...profoundness personified!

WP34