Thread: Using left hand as a guide?

I am trying to learn to hone. All the videos I have been watching show the honemiester holding the razor in one hand, sometimes the hone in the other, and honing away. My problem is I am not 100% sure that I am keeping my razor flat and with even pressure, especially on the push stroke.

What I am finding easier is to put the hone on the table and then very lightly putting the index finger of my left hand on the tip of the blade. I am using as little pressure as I can, just enough to keep everything flat on the hone. Is this OK? Do any of you other guys use both hands when honing or am I really going to mess everything up doing this?

It may seem easier to use both hands but as much as it may pain you, you will be better off learning the right way and use one hand. Most folks who use two hands have issues with uneven hone wear. A few of us have mastered two hands but I know in my case I have a really light touch and have adapted the way I hold the razor but I learned before this site existed so I had no one to ask.

I had a real hard time using just one hand in the beginning too. It just takes a matter of practice until you can use only one hand confidently. But once you are a little more proficient in using one hand while honing, muscle memory takes over and it doesn't feel awkward like it did at first. It's like most things that involve muscle memory...The first time I tried to swing a golf club it felt awkward as hell, but now it feel smooth.

That said, I don't think there's anything inherently wrong with using two hands. But I do agree that it does seem more prone to uneven wear if not done correctly. My advice is to just practice using one hand and before long it'll start to feel natural. I think you'll be grateful once you've learned that skill. :gl

I also began honing with both hands , and like the Big Spender said , it will work if you watch what you are doing . I eventually found that I got sharper edges by using one hand , and honing also became easier when using one hand . Especially the "smiling" blades . I've been honing with one hand for so long now , that using two hands would feel awkward .