Thread: Want to refresh razor but unsure if previous owner used tape or not.

Correct on the marker if it rubs off the full face you know 1 layer of tape was used
if it rubs the cutting edge only no tape was used
if it rubs of the top or blade edge of the bevel only not the whole face more layers of tape were used.

as I tape regardless 1 layer for all blades to protect the spine from any or more wear, If no tape was used previously you will only be effecting the very edge with the finisher so I would leave the tape on & keep going & finish it that way
the angle difference would make a fine micro bevel from the finisher
then if you realy want later go back to the 6k with the same taping & take the bevel face back fully but it will get there eventually anyway

this is a lot more work if you go from taped to no tape as you have to reset the bevel completely

for a refresh on the Naniwa 12k you should only be looking at say 20-40 light X strokes max

either way you have the tools (1+6K's) to go back if you want to learn & have more fun