Same Difference

I was wondering what the difference is between the finishing stone and one of Tony's pasted bench hones. The reason I ask is because I have neither of the two but was considering my purchase. I tried my hand at honing the other day, and suffice it to say that it dod not turn out well. I still am going to try the pasted paddle I have but it is a TI paste on a TI paddle, and I do not know what the equivalent grit size is. I was thinking about getting a finishing stone, but after reading some stuff on the forums about Tony's benck hones, I am now torn a little bit between the two. Anyone who has experience with both, I would appreciate any advice that can be provided, as well as experiences, views, price worthiness, etc. Thanks.

Jimmy,

A finishing stone is usually in the 12-15K range, while the bench hone is usually in the 30-50K range depending on what paste you put on it. The bench hone is significantly cheaper, anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

A finishing stone is harder to use, too, as it requires as much honing skill as the Norton.

There's some debate as to whether a pasted strop like a bench hone makes for a weaker edge that requires more frequent touchups. I personally find that at this stage in the development of my technique, a pasted strop gives me the extra sharpness I need for a comfortable shave. (I've tried unsuccessfully to shave with edges finished on finishing hones by guys who really know their stuff, but I find I really need the extra sharpness from the paste.) Hopefully that'll change someday.

If you're just starting out, I'd definitely recommend the bench hone first. You may want to add a finishing stone later, or you may not. But I'll bet anything that if you buy a finishing stone you'll still end up getting a pasted strop... :)

Good luck,
Josh