Originally Posted by
Gasman
Mark and Glen got it covered for ya.
You just need to know what works for you.
Above the arm, Hair test, or tree topping as its called, after finishing is a good one but it can tell you two things. One, You have microchips and it's pinching the hairs in half or two, you got an edge so sharp its finding the spot between the folicals and wedging them apart. (If that's the right word? I know its not spelled right.)
TNT at bevel set and TPT at finish plus a good loupe should tell you everything, but you need to know what its really telling you. And that takes practice. Non-consistency is normally from not enough practice. Keep at it and keep testing. You will find what works. Sure you can shave off an 8K, but I bet most of us would consider that a Pre-finisher.