Thread: "Black Beauty"

As a newbie I just had to share my new acquisition, I just got given a "Black Beauty" Razor Hone by the "Pike Manufacturing Co" of Pike NH USA. The box is in good condition (considering its age) and the hand written price on the label is 7/6 (7 shillings and 6 pence) quite an expensive item in its day. Alas the stone itself has suffered some damage but I do intend to use it and at least one of the three razors that came with it once I get the hang of keeping a good edge, the directions inside the lid are legible (just). Any hints on how to practice would be readily and gratefully accepted.

Follow the instructions ???? Pike was eventually bought by Norton. They made a lot of different types of hones. I have a couple that I haven't used much. Very few laps needed to bring your razor back in shape. Light slow careful laps. Some use water some add shave soap. If you use just water you can watch for the blade to cut water off the hone. Also try to feel for the edge getting smoother. That is the part to learn. The feel.

Hold the stone in your hand and keep your fingers out of the way.

And if the back side of the hone is in better shape, use it.

Originally Posted by 10Pups

Hold the stone in your hand and keep your fingers out of the way.

Cheers that's a piece of advice that I shall follow very, very closely.

Originally Posted by 10Pups

Follow the instructions ???? Pike was eventually bought by Norton. They made a lot of different types of hones. I have a couple that I haven't used much. Very few laps needed to bring your razor back in shape. Light slow careful laps. Some use water some add shave soap. If you use just water you can watch for the blade to cut water off the hone. Also try to feel for the edge getting smoother. That is the part to learn. The feel.

Hold the stone in your hand and keep your fingers out of the way.

Its listed in the Catalogue No. 14 from Pike Manufacturing Co., New Hampshire of the Year 1926. so seems to be one of the Older ones, sure i cant tell when the OPs example was sold...

Is it the same as the black side of the Norton razor hone ?

Originally Posted by Clifty

Cheers that's a piece of advice that I shall follow very, very closely.

The easiest way to accomplish that is to hold the hone in the flat of your fully open hand. Aside from ensuring the safety of your fingertips, it has the added benefit of allowing the hone to rock slightly to accommodate a slight mis-stroke of the blade.

Some tips tricks and fun

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tP-GUeN_yBs