Thread: The almighty Naniwa 12k

Well, here's a chance to say "I told you so."

I recently added a Naniwa 12k to my collection of hones. Previously, I was using a progression of Naniwa 1k, 3k, 8k, and then finishing on a thuringian or a coticule. I was able to shave off of every stone, even the 1k, so I knew I was setting the bevel properly. Shaving off of the 8k gave me decent shaves, although a bit harsh. Adding a coticule as a finisher was hit or miss, depending on the razor it seemed. A thuri finish gave me a nice smooth edge, but not matter the finisher, and even off the 8k, I found the edge was never quite keen enough - I often would need to skip or abbreviate the ATG pass, especially on my upper lip.

Why did I wait so long to get a 12k? Well, they're really not very sexy when compared to a natural stone. Anytime I had a bit of cash and I was given a choice between a natural or the 12k, I just could never get excited about the 12k.

What changed? I almost took the plunge on an entry level Jnat, and had even chosen a vendor. But after discussing honing with the vendor, he told me I wasn't ready for a Jnat yet. Well, when a sales person tells me not to buy something of theirs, I listen. I figured he was probably right, and that I had more basics to master. So I spent that money on the Naniwa 12k instead.

And now, I'm getting the keenness I wanted. I'm getting fantastic shaves from the razors I've honed myself. I'm still experimenting with the progression, sometimes using the 12k by itself, sometimes using it before a natural finisher, sometimes using it after a natural finisher. I've been using CrOx as well, but I'll experiment with taking that away soon. Since I knew the 12k is fast, so far my method has been to to 10 laps, examine the edge, and do 10 more if necessary, etc. It's amazing how much a difference 10 laps makes with this stone!

There is an amazing amount of information about this particular stone on this forum (as well as all the other stones I've bought), and it's been an incredible resource while teaching myself to hone. I really feel like I've reached a new chapter in my straight razor journey, thanks to all of you!