Quote Originally Posted by dylandog View Post
No, they don't pass the HHT. They shave OK, but not great. I can do laps and laps – like 50, say – on the coticule and they just don't even seem to change – they don't even get overhoned. They just keep cruising along, steady in their mediocrity.

I've never done that 45 degree thing on low grits, only high. I'll give that a try. Do you X while going at 45? It always seemed to me that both approaches combined would produce a very shallow angle of scratch mark...
I have a wedge that passes the HHT but I still think it needs lots of work before I take it to my face - of course, HHT is very subjective, etc.

I definitely recommend the 45 for the lower grids.

X or no X - I do both. Going on the feel of the edge, basically. I *think* the X gives me better results when I begin the process but is certainly more involved that the straight motion. However, on the 4K final stages, it's easier for me to just use the weight of the wedge and push / pull lightly without X-ing. Basically, the wedge is heavy enough to offset the scales hanging out, most of the time. So I just lay the blade 45 on the 4K without any other pressure for several laps without X to get the max of the hone. When I say easier - it's just that, not better or anything. I do use X on my polishing hones (thay are narrow, and I actually prefer them this way) - but it requires more attention and care from me.

Now, after all this - let me make it clear that I am not a honemeister

Cheers
Ivo