Thread: Natural stone alternative to a 4K Norton

Tony,

Norton rates the Hard Translucent Arkansas stones they sell as 4K grit. These are very slow cutters, however.

Thanks for all the advice guys. Since I hate slow stones and the Kimberly Special is working for me I'll stick with a few barber hones for the heavy work.


Tony

Ever tried these?
Gränsfors Bruks AB - Axe Stone

Have you considered the Scottish stone called the Dalmore Blue?

Originally Posted by fccexpert

Tony,

Norton rates the Hard Translucent Arkansas stones they sell as 4K grit. These are very slow cutters, however.

From what I've been able to find, the translucent Arkansas is rated at 8000. It's hard to compare to other stones because of the different rating methods used for oilstones and waterstones. Supposedly the translucent, at 8000, is about the equivalent of a 10000 or 12000 waterstone; depends on who you talk to. I get an excellent edge with the translucent ark. Slow, yeah, but, IMO, safer. Definitely not for major rehoning, only for finishing. Maybe, someday, I'll spring for the money and have one of the pros here put the finest edge they can on my razors...maybe

I'm still thinking about an extra fine waterstone; they're not that much more expensive than my Norton translucent.