Thread: rolling x stroke on this one?

Restoring this one that I got off ebay. This is their pic, before I polished it. I'll need to start honing it next and I'm a newbie honer (is that a word?). Would you say this has enough of a smile that I need to use a rolling x stroke? Would this one be a challenge for a new hone....guy?

Thanks

Goog

Looks like it might. Take the magic marker and blacken the cutting edge and see if your x stroke removes it from heel to point. If not figure a stroke that will. Sometimes a 45 degree heel leading stroke works, sometimes the rolling x. Good learning experience.

Originally Posted by JimmyHAD

Looks like it might. Take the magic marker and blacken the cutting edge and see if your x stroke removes it from heel to point. If not figure a stroke that will. Sometimes a 45 degree heel leading stroke works, sometimes the rolling x. Good learning experience.

+1.

I would use the magic marker test during the bevel setting, then use that pattern through the whole process. It might not be a perfect "roll" in the end. You just have to find the right motion that covers the whole edge.

Jimmy also hinted at leading with the heel, which is another option I use sometimes. I might lead with the heel, then lead with the toe, then do a flat stroke. Count your strokes carefully and really pay attention to the way the water moves. At least that's what I do.

Another +1 for Jimmy's advice! Magic marker, and then do a rolling X or heel leading stroke to ensure you make good contact with the whole bevel.

Have a look at this Wiki article as well, its got some great pointers..!

Strokes for honing a razor - Straight Razor Place Wiki

Good luck and keep us posted!

that will need a rolling x i'd be surprised if it did'nt

Yes, rolling X all the way. Magic marker will help you ensure you are getting a good roll.

I do think that will be a challenge for a new guy. I would honestly suggest setting it aside for now and starting with a full hollow with a straight edge.

Originally Posted by greatgoogamooga

Restoring this one that I got off ebay. This is their pic, before I polished it. I'll need to start honing it next and I'm a newbie honer (is that a word?). Would you say this has enough of a smile that I need to use a rolling x stroke? Would this one be a challenge for a new hone....guy?

Thanks

Goog

What hones do you have?

In following this thread I was struck by the thought
that some of the differences of opinion may begin
with the differences in the hone on the bench.

A big long and wide superstone would invite
a very different stroke than a palm size
razor hone. A long narrow hone would
be different yet again.

Also aside from style the shape of a razor reflects
the tools of the time as much as the style. What
set of hones match the vintage of this style of
blade?

Originally Posted by niftyshaving

What hones do you have?

I have a set of Nortons and a Chinese 12K.

Looks like another nice razor!

Rolling X stroke MIGHT be the way to go, but put Sharpie on the bevel and run in across a hone a couple times doing it FLAT. If the marker is not being removed at the heel or toe, or both, then yes, rolling X would be a good bet.

+1 to Jimmy of course Beat me to the punch

Does look like a challenge for a new honer.
I don't have a crystal ball but I do see those dark spots on the edge as potential chips.
Also once you hone them out to good steel you may start honing on the rear stabiliser which being thicker can lift the heel accentuating the toe wear & giving you less keeness at the heel.
I usually grind part of the stabiliser & heel away on blades that are worn near flush like that.
Link here has some pics http://straightrazorpalace.com/advan...rrecting+heels