Well I finally did it. I was able to get a really nice shave from a blade I honed. I used a Norton 4K then a oil stone which I feel is around a 6K then used the 8K side of the Norton and it worked great. I've tried before going from the 4k right to the 8k side with no results. To test it I just picked up a Boker from another member and I was successful again. It feels good to be somewhat self sufficient.