Thread: Newbie Q: can't get razor sharp enough

Originally Posted by sharptonn

Yes, Kings are there, but the 12k tadasv linked to first is a Shapton. Curious about that one.

The M5 Shap = 5mm thick. It is the cheaper non pro version of the 10mm full size Pro but for the home kitchen etc. It is bonded to a ceramic tile base. Don't use that side
It works the same on razors. A crispy stubble destroying edge that takes very little to be tamed on pastes but may still be a bit to much for those with sensitive skin. Perfect followed by the 20k Gok.

How would you compare it to the Naniwa SS12k, Oz?

Originally Posted by sharptonn

How would you compare it to the Naniwa SS12k, Oz?

Wouldja believe I've only used a Nani 12k 3x

Like all the Pro's the 12 k is a very fast cutting aggressive stone easy to to raise a burr. I think a very different stone tho feels nice to use. Edge certainly has a use by date beyond the optimal # of laps.

So it would make a good 'barber's hone' with a few laps on a good edge?

Originally Posted by sharptonn

So it would make a good 'barber's hone' with a few laps on a good edge?

Could be so.

Just thinking of a new member. This is what he desires. Heck! I may get one too!

Originally Posted by sharptonn

Just thinking of a new member. This is what he desires. Heck! I may get one too!

I kinda regret selling my 12 k. They're not super exe so worth a try, tho I never recommended them for new guys . Same as a V8 for a new driver but treated like a barber hone is a good idea. I used to jump from 5 k so spent more time but in general a light touch & a more is less approach works with them.

Is/was the Dovo new? If not post a pic, there may be something going on with the razor.

You have all you need to put an edge on a razor, Kings are good stones and will work just fine. The 6k has a lot of range. I have not used your Shapton, so heed Oz’s advice.

You will need some magnification and good magnification can be purchased on line for as little as $2, (lighted 40X) the Micro Bright at 10-$15 is a good lighted scope 60-100X.

You will also need to lap your stones, a 400-1000 diamond plate from Chef Knives to Go at $30 will lap your stone and last a lifetime. Or you can use a dollar store, metal cookie sheet and sheet of 320 wet and dry.

Make sure your Green Polishing Compound is pure Chrome Oxide, “Polishing Compound” bars, contain other aggressive abrasives that will leave a harsh edge, undoing all your honing work. Pure Chrome Ox can be purchased from shaving suppliers for 10-$15. Use sparingly, a little goes a long way.

Look up a Second Try at Honing, in the honing forum, where a new honer went from bevel set to shave ready with lots of good bevel photos to show you what to look for.

Or, as said find a local mentor and cut your learning curve dramatically. And do tape the spine to prevent needless damage to the spine.

IMHO, go back to the basics:

Find a copy online, here in the data base, or in a library, etc. of an old Barber's manual that teaches honing and stropping technique. Study the instructions and illustrations carefully. Barber's manuals were not meant to be used in the absence of an experience Barber instructor, but you can still learn a lot with careful study and lot's of trial and error. Combine that with any advice you receive here and, eventually, if you stick with it, you will not only improve, but become an expert in your own right.

If you can, find and experiment with old Barber hones, natural and synthetic, in good condition. Same with vintage leather/ canvas combination strops in good condition.

I takes time and careful skill development, but it can be done.

Good luck!

Originally Posted by Euclid440

Is/was the Dovo new? If not post a pic, there may be something going on with the razor.

The Dovo was new. It definitely can shave, but has some tugging especially around the chin where hair is more dense. I think it was in a better condition when I got it about a year ago. When I was using the 12K stone I noticed that it leaves metal residue on the side closer to the scales. Tried rotating the stone and it's still the same. I bet there might be something wrong with the geometry or my technique.

Thanks for the advice. I ordered one of those USB microscopes yesterday. I'll post some pics once I get it.