What is the length of time...

Let's say that it has been established that a razor is without nicks, but is very dull and it needs to hit a hone... that pasted strops alone won't quite cut it, or would waste too much of your time by choosing to use them.

On your average, how long does it take you to get it to the point where you can shave with it after you take off that first thin slice of the stone? Remember, average, not special, cases.

Post the stones you use. Example:
220...1000...4000...8000...12000

or: Do you use something like the Handamerican System?
http://www.handamerican.com/
Keith is a super guy, and what a great system to use. I love it. He even made me a 2 by 72 leather stropping belt for my variable speed burr king. Eat your heart out :D

I sure agree about Keith. He is a great guy to deal with. I believe the scary sharp system is the best deal in the knife sharpening world. For 40 somethin' bucks you should see what you get, including his excellent leather hones. I have had my eye on his leather belts for a while now.

I am about to try and sharpen a beater from dull for the first time. I will let you know how long it takes me, but it will just be my first try. I think I'll do it on stones, but then try another on the psa's.

I hate to say it but it all depends on the razor. I've sharpened some Eboy specials that took about 20 minutes and some that have taken 45 so I don't know if there is an average. When I got my TI damascus it wouldn't shave period I spent literally hours honing that razor to get it into shaving condition.

On the average though about 40-50 passes on the 4K and then maybe 60 passes on the 8K and about 15 minutes on the 12K will take a nonshaver to honing perfection for me.

The stones I use are the 800 Syderco ceramic for removing nicks and establishing a bevel.

Then its on to the :
4000 until cuts hair above the skin on my arm and starts to pass the hanging hair test in spots on the blade, with some effort.

4000 & 8000 3" Norton using the pyramid system until the razor passes the hanging hair test

12000 Chinese natural waterstone for approx 50-100 strokes

0.5 chrome oxide paddle strop for 50 laps

0.25 diamond paddle strop for 25 laps

plain leather strop for 35 laps
Time 45-60 minutes I guess, on average.

Just my two cents:)