The Norton Honing Pyramid

Pyramid Technique

Conservative

This method is designed for a razor that is almost keen. It shaves but pulls at the whiskers. A thumb test can be used to sense changes in the blade as you hone. Then strop on plain leather for 35 passes and test shave. Here is a pyramid for a Norton 4K/8K.

Set # 4K/8K

1……1/5
2……1/5
3……3/5
4........3/5
5……5/5
6……3/5
7……3/5
8……1/5
9……1/5
10…..1/5

Aggressive

Use this method when the razor is not shaving at all:

Set #....4K/8K

1 ……..15/5
2……...10/5
3………5/5
4………3/5
5……....3/5
6……....1/5
7.......….1/5

For me, when I just need a touch up, I'll use a 1-3 and 1-3 or 1-5. I like to use a couple extra strokes on the 8K with Stainless razors. I'll also sometimes start with a 3-3 and then the 1-3. 1-3 or 1-5. Sometimes for just a little touch up, I'll use Boron Oxide followed by Chromium Oxide. 10 strokes each. Sometimes I'll use 5 strokes on the 8K side of the Norton followed by 10 strokes on the Escher.

For tougher jobs I will use typically no more than 25 without the need for a courser stone. I like to start with 15 normally for a full honing. Note, not a restoration. 15-15, 10-10, 5-5, 3-3, 1-3, 1-3 or 1-5.

In all cases, I have been following up with 10 strokes on the Escher and in some cases either .5 diamond paste or Chromium Oxide.

One very important thing is that the stroke be light and smooth on the hone with no uneven pressure. I prefer the X stroke pattern.

Have fun guys,

Lynn