Thread: Why do x pattern on a big enough stone?

do u have to do x patterns on a norton stone because norton stones are bigger then the blade. would the x pattern actually be worse cuz u have parts of the blade that stay on the hone longer then other. any help or info would be good thanks : )

The heel of the razor tends to get more pressure, so the x pattern helps even out the hone wear. But it's not a requirement by any means.

It also helps to prevent uneven honing because of small variances in how level the surface of the stone is.

If the razor has even a slight smile in it, a straight stroke will not touch the entire length of the bevel. The X-stroke helps (among other things) to give the entire length of the edge the attention it needs.

Because it works...............

Lynn

Originally Posted by Lynn

Because it works...............

Lynn

Lynn, I like your logical and easy to understand explanation.

Originally Posted by StraightRazorDave

If the razor has even a slight smile in it, a straight stroke will not touch the entire length of the bevel. The X-stroke helps (among other things) to give the entire length of the edge the attention it needs.

That just requires that you use a rocking stroke, which can be done as part of an X stroke or just running the razor straight down the hone.

You know, this raises another issue for me that I have not given a lot of thought to, but that's never stopped me before ....

I reckon there is an element of ergonomics involved with an X-stroke. To me a stroke that maintains a completely straight movement of the razor along the length of the hone is not as natural as one that incorporates some lateral movement toward the dominant side - particularly if your honing motion comes more from the elbow and wrist than the shoulder. Perhaps an X stroke "works" for most people because an X is a more natural and confident movement for most people??

James.

haha I have asked this same question, and I can tell you that even though it is difficult to conceive, Lynn undoubtedly gave the best answer - "Because it works!"

Originally Posted by Lynn

Because it works...............

Lynn

Absolutely correct. There was a member about a year ago, I won't name him in case he comes back, who absolutely insisted that there was no need for an x-pattern. He repeatedly posted his complaints about failing to successfully hone a razor despite "four hour honing sessions." I and many others tried to convince him that he needed to try the x-pattern but he had already proven with his own logic that there was no need for the x-pattern on a large hone. He was confident in his beliefs, but he never succeeded in honing a razor.

I offered to hone a couple razors for him. I offered to send him a couple of my razors to try shaving with. He refused both offers because he was confident in his belief that there was no need for the x-pattern. Last I saw of him he sold all his honing gear. He might have been right, in his own mind, but he never got a razor sharp.

Regardless of the size of the hone, use the x-pattern "Because it works..............."