Thread: Is the 4k/8k Norton enough for my needs?

Just a quick note.... when testing the edge for microchips etc use the
Thumb Nail Test , TNT, not the Thumb Pad Test, TPT.

When your honing the edge of a Ebay vintage or antique store razor remember that the edge has oxidized and become weak. The weak steel needs to be removed and any microchips also. I have found that it usually takes at least 50 laps on 1000 grit sandpaper and usually 100 laps so the Norton 4K is going to take more. Let the TNT be your guide.
Clean the hone frequently while honing, the swarf will build up fast.

Now I'm finding things about taking a dull razor from start to finish on a coticule. Which do you guys think would be a better route to go? I haven't used the Norton or Chinese stones yet, so I could still return them.

Originally Posted by lodgeskins

Now I'm finding things about taking a dull razor from start to finish on a coticule. Which do you guys think would be a better route to go? I haven't used the Norton or Chinese stones yet, so I could still return them.

If you've got one you could do it with heavy slurry and a good amount of patience and persistence. Personally I would recommend you stick with your norton 4/8 until you are proficient with it. Then get into getting to know another stone. The trouble with getting too many stones too quickly is that the temptation to use all of them gets you to where you don't really know any of them. Learn one at a time until you're pretty good with each would be my advice knowing what I know now.