I've had a blade honed by Lynn, oso I know what sharpness is acceptable to shave with.

I just cant get close to that sharpness with the stones I have.

I've tried just honing on the 4k (after cutting the bevel)to get the arm hair popping test. Literally, I've worn off about 1/3 of the blade trying to conduct this and it still hasnt happened.

I know that the 4k stone is abrasive, sure ... but to conduct the hair popping test I need to wear away a minor amount of the steel to get the edge.

Basically, I do laps on the 4k without anything to show for it except worn nubs that used to be razors.

What gives?