Quote Originally Posted by RichZ
I just want to throw something out there. Can you get a razor too sharp, well not really too sharp but are you working too hard to get it shave ready or is it part of the fun? I use a Norton 4k/8k and a plain 3" leather strop and I get a great shave with my three razors. If I use a 12k hone and diamond paste will I get a better shave? I read what everyone writes and I wonder if I am missing something. :roll:
IMHO no! 8)

The edge is defined MOSTLY by the consistency of the angle of the "V" formed by the two sides. That definition is accomplished by skill and care on the 4k side of your Norton, or whatever grinding hone you use. The polishing of the edge the 8k-12k stones do is to further refine that "V' to make it a tad smoother in its action and will contribute to the edge's longivity before it again needs a touch-up beyond the strop. Pasted strops have the same contribution to the pre-defined edge .... sort of like the difference between just washing your pick-m-up truck, OR washing AND paste waxing!