Thread: Any Tips for a first hone?

The Radio Shack Microscope ( $8.00 ) will give you the feedback you are looking for. Try doing your circular pattern with no pressure for five minutes and look at the blade with the scope and it will show little change. Use pressure for one minute and look and you will see some bright fresh steel. I would hate too ruin any razor, but it is better too practice on one that is well worn. I will sometimes lift the spine off of the hone a bit instead of using tape. Not sure why when tape works fine, I just don't like the feel of the tape when honing.

Glen

I'd start with the 220, too. No sense wasting time working out a nick with a finer abrasive than necessary.

Sounds good. i picked up a microscope to help out, need to pick up some batteries. i'll start with the 220, I want to get a feel for how all the different grits react to the razor so when i need to use it on one i really want to keep there won't be any surprises. i'm not too concerned if i ruin this razor, frankly i'd rather ruin it since it already has a huge chip. if i get it to the point that i can shave with it, though, i wouldn't complain. that would be a nice accomplishment.