Thread: Does TPT change as you progress?

I'm trying to develop my feel for the TPT before I look like an olympic swimmer. The way I'm doing it is to wet my thumb for at least 20 second, then run it along the edge lightly. The edge passes when I can feel the blade grab the skin, as opposed to sliding easily along.

Assuming you start with a 1k, and go up through 4k, 8k and 12k, does the feel of the thumb pad test change from one grit to another? Once you have it at 1k, will it feel stickier, or dig in more on the higher grits?

thanks

Goog

It is different off each stone, and the differences can be hard to describe. For example, off my 5k I'd say it feels more slick than off my 1k. The first time I actually thought I'd dulled the edge.

I think the best way to caliblate your TPT is by doing an arm hair test then a TPT, so you can say "A razor that cuts like that feels like this."

Originally Posted by greatgoogamooga

I'm trying to develop my feel for the TPT before I look like an olympic swimmer. The way I'm doing it is to wet my thumb for at least 20 second, then run it along the edge lightly. The edge passes when I can feel the blade grab the skin, as opposed to sliding easily along.

Assuming you start with a 1k, and go up through 4k, 8k and 12k, does the feel of the thumb pad test change from one grit to another? Once you have it at 1k, will it feel stickier, or dig in more on the higher grits?

thanks

Goog

The Wiki has good information regarding the TPT. You should take a look if you have not already. I would not advise running your thumb along the blade. The wiki explains that the thumb should go across the blade not along the blade. Start here Sharpness tests explained - Straight Razor Place Wiki

You should feel a difference in the edge as the sharpness of the blade changes. The more practice and experience you gain the better you will understand the differences.

Originally Posted by lesshairy

You should feel a difference in the edge as the sharpness of the blade changes. The more practice and experience you gain the better you will understand the differences.

+1. IME it takes awhile to educate the TP.

Originally Posted by lesshairy

The Wiki has good information regarding the TPT. You should take a look if you have not already. I would not advise running your thumb along the blade. The wiki explains that the thumb should go across the blade not along the blade. Start here Sharpness tests explained - Straight Razor Place Wiki

You should feel a difference in the edge as the sharpness of the blade changes. The more practice and experience you gain the better you will understand the differences.

Apparently, I am using the "Alternative Method" described in the wiki, which does suggest moving the thumb lightly along the blade.

Goog

I don't think the direction matters so long as you get used to it, don't cut yourself, and don't wrock the edge. I use a dry thumb and "tug" along the edge - I don't actually slide my finger, but I apply a force in the direction parallel to the edge.

well i use the alternate (lenghtwise) TPT too
its not a really big difference between the grits
but if i go really lo there is a more grabbing feel,
and at the high grits im feeling more like suction

im not sure im making sense but if the razor grab instead of suck its not smooth enough

Originally Posted by janivar123

well i use the alternate (lenghtwise) TPT too
its not a really big difference between the grits
but if i go really lo there is a more grabbing feel,
and at the high grits im feeling more like suction

im not sure im making sense but if the razor grab instead of suck its not smooth enough

This is what I was thinking of. So what you're saying is, a really smooth edge sucks!

Goog

Consistency in your testing methods, IMO, is probably more important in helping you to develop your ability to use the TPT as a useful test then which method you choose to follow. Both methods, going across the blade or going along the blade,will work. It becomes a personal preference which one you feel most comfortable with. Being able to interpret the TPT to determine the condition of the blade's edge is what you are trying to achieve. That ability will come through time and experience, and if you remain consistent in your testing, it should come more easily.

I personally, like to go across the blade. Actually, I go across the blade with a slight angle down the blade. I use a dry thumb and I touch the blade with an extremely light touch. I would estimate that my thumb does not touch the blade more then 1mm at a time. I do a series of touches along the length of the blade. That is what works for me.

I use the TPT all through my honing and stropping progression and I find there is a noticeable difference in the feel of the blade as it becomes sharper.

The "sticky" quality of the TPT, for me, is only accurate at the bevel-setting stage. Once I have a finished edge, one that can pass the HHT and shave well, the TPT reveals nothing: it feels like a dull blade. I don't doubt it's cutting skin, there just is no "sticky," "caramel-like," or whatever feel to it. I posted about this some time ago: some agreed with my experience, others did not. You must establish your own frame of reference.