Thread: Bevel width

Originally Posted by STF

Rezdog said I should be able to get a close comfortable shave off a 1K bevel set. Great advice, now I know where the goal post is.

So... I think that's very subjective (also not precisely what RezDog said). I could not get what I would consider a close comfortable shave off a 1K for sure. At 4K I expect smooth shaving with the grain and uncomfortable pulling ATG.

Add into that you are limited in experience and have an unknown blade, I would cage your expectations. RezDog explains well how to inspect for bevel setting... and if it inspects well under a loupe and is shaving arm hair well all along the blade, I would move to the next level.

As far as the photos... look pretty good! Stria is relatively uniform and in the same general direction. A bit rough on the heel and toe... not unusual for a new honer. An x-stroke you should alter the pressure some by adjusting the weight of the blade as you describe. I do roll the x-stroke in bevel setting (and indeed for the first several strokes throughout my progressions), lifting the toe and heel gently, for several strokes. I remember watching Glenn say in a video once always to hone towards a slight smile...

My four principles of honing:

(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.