Thread: Transitioning from tools to razors part ii

Originally Posted by Scatterjoy

This is a worn out practice razor.
Focusing on the initial bezel is the focus and whether this blade makes it to shave-ready would require advanced skills. So let's just use it to get the bevel right.

I'll re-tape it . I did the x strokes on the 1000. It's not ready for any balloon test. I'm a little lost.

How do you know the edge is perfect, neither over nor under honed?
Whether the angle is off by thousandths due to size is of no consequence.

I don't want to practice on some of the nicer and older blades in this bunch. I'm trying to learn edge. Then hone. Then strop.

Then I'll Polish a nice one before starting it all again.

When you are setting the bevel, using regular strokes without excessive pressure, it is not really easy to over hone at this point. Developing a burr or over honing at this point almost has to be intentional.
If you are developing a burr you are using too much pressure.

Keep an eye on the tape and make sure you do not go through! Your pressure can sort of be checked as you go in that one piece of tape will do till near finishing. That is, if you are working on a wonky razor and it takes a while to get the bevel you may have to change tape regularly. Once the bevel is set I would put on a fresh layer of tape to begin moving forward. On your next stone after only a few strokes check the edge. The new striations will be evident right at the edge and will clearly be a good sign for you. Use that layer of tape till you get to at least 8k then put a new one on to finish.

So, to know when you are done bevel setting: view the edge with a loupe and see that all striations get to the absolute edge of the razor along its full length. If yes, check the edge. If not, modify your stroke to reach the areas not contacted. This sounds easy and where a lot of problems will come from when learning. Makes sure your stones are flat - as stated!!

So now, all striations make it to the edge. Test either on a tomato skin (with no pressure drag the edge a few mm on the tomato and the skin should slice easily) check the entire edge for the same result.
Checking how the edge cuts arm hair at this point is what I use and probably most others. This will develop with practice to know what that should feel like. It will bite easily at the skin and will shave every hair in the way. It will feel sharp!

Once there, progress to finer stones by viewing the edge as before. Testing the edge at each stage is not necessary, but, making sure you reach the edge with every stone is!!

Once to 8k with a new layer of tape and some strokes try stropping and shaving. It should shave surprisingly well. If not, you have not completed your work to that point. Going further with higher grit will not help you. Ground work is the key.

Let us know when you get to that point.
Good luck.