Thread: Can't get 2 razors to shave

You need to learn what each stone does... once you have a sense of what each level in a progression does, then you'll know if you're ready for the next. Otherwise moving on based on number of strokes is just going to hurt you. Having a loupe (20x or 40x) will aid immensely.

Additionally, as Euclid discusses above, edge leading x-strokes should end each level. And setting the bevel is the foundation. There are a few tests, but a basic one is with the bevel set it should cleanly shave arm hair at skin level all along the blade. From there, having the loupe will show you how the stria are being worked all along the edge at each level. When you've got a uniform stria, strop and shave at that level. 4K should shave, albeit uncomfortably, with the grain. 8K should shave well with the grain and shave passeably against the grain. If you're maxing out the 8K, that's a razor shaving pretty well. Beyond that is just levels of keeness.

Key points: (i) Work on a consistent edge leading stroke
(ii) Setting the bevel is the foundation and requires patience. Moving on before that's done is a waste of time.
(iii) Know what you want out of each level. Don't move on until you've got that.
(iv) It's not that complicated. Don't overthink it.