Originally Posted by
StraightRazorDave
I agree with smythe, you have all you really need to get your razor going. Shaving off the 8k is completely do-able, just seem people prefer a smoother edge. I had almost the exact set-up for a while: 220/1000 and 4000/8000 nortons, and an Illinois strop with linen back. That worked just fine. I recently obtained a coticule which puts a smoother edge on the razor. Is it truly necessary? Not really, just a matter of personal preference.
You have a GREAT set-up to learn on, just practice and you decide if you need anything past the 8k ;).
Dave
P.S. Did your razor come pre-honed? It would be a good idea to have a professionally honed razor first to use as a sort of benchmark, if you don't already.