Thread: Honing Razors With A Jig and Stationary Blade

Originally Posted by Bruno

When all is said and done, the purpose of a jig is to keep a consistent angle (or distance or position in other scenarios). A straight razor already comes with a jig that does not require configuration, and which is always the exact same angle, regardless of where and when you use it. That built-in jig also happens to be set at a very convenient angle (or range of angles when compared between individual razors) that has been used for centuries.
It's free.
It's foolproof.
It's consistent.

So, what's the point of adding additional contraptions?

Why not use a contraption as you call it? Why not try something different? There are many examples that I can use to illustrate my point. Let's use a simple one.

Why make a light bulb when there is fire. A torch can light the way.

It's foolproof.
It's consistent.

Insert incandescent light bulb.

This thread is about whether the jig method is viable. I used a jig to sharpen a razor once. It was sharp, but didn't feel honed to a polished edge. Could be my execution. I prefer no jig and naniwa stones. I think we can all agree that straight razors are all about personal preference. So to answer bladeon's question of whether the jig is viable; most don't feel that it's viable. My recommendation is to have a professionally honed razor to compare against and experiment on a low value razor. Execution is often more important then method. I love jigs with a passion, but I feel like they get in the way with straights.

Originally Posted by Mario

Why not use a contraption as you call it? Why not try something different? There are many examples that I can use to illustrate my point. Let's use a simple one.

Why make a light bulb when there is fire. A torch can light the way.

It's foolproof.
It's consistent.

Insert incandescent light bulb.

A torch would be smoky, smelly & complicated to set up. compared to switching on the light bulb.
It is not complicated to hone a razor the way they have always been honed. In fact it's as simple a switching a light bulb on & off.