Thread: Norton 4k/8k longevity

I have a translucent arkansas stone given to my as a gift to sharpen my straight razor. But I don't think it's really doing anything for me (perhaps using it wrong?) so I'm looking into purchasing the Norton 4k/8k stone with the stone flattener that is intended for it.

My question is, for how long can I use this 4k/8k with the flattening stone until it becomes to thin or brittle to use?

thanks.

It should be OK for a lifetime of use if you're just using it for your own shaves. Especially if you also get another stone for touchups. I'm getting a coticule, but there are other finishing/touchup hones like swaty and escher. PB also recommended ceramic hones, and I'm ASSUMING this one was the one he was talking about: http://a-1-tools.com/pro189296.html
It may go easier on your wallet, but wait until some people who acquired their rank or Honemeister with their work instead of their post-count confirm what I just said before dishing out $41+shipping lol.

After doing some reading, it seems that some people use the translucent arkansas as their finishing stone. So I guess I'll hold onto it and order the Norton.

If I were you, I'd hold off on that until you hear from someone who knows more about this than I do.

Actually get the Norton 4/8k anyways. You'll need it in any case but read some of the older threads about fine finishing hones.

Let's see, I have some Norton Stones that are down to about 1/4 inch on the 4K side. I wore out 4 of these stones honing almost 6000 razors. Should last a long time for any individual, even when maintaining a collection. Have fun. Lynn

Originally Posted by adjustme69

Let's see, I have some Norton Stones that are down to about 1/4 inch on the 4K side. I wore out 4 of these stones honing almost 6000 razors. Should last a long time for any individual, even when maintaining a collection. Have fun. Lynn

Now there is the definative answer as to the life of a Norton, 1500 razors. When handled by a pro.

Farad,

Most Arkansas stones are less than 2000 grit so the Norton is probably more of what you're looking for.

Ed

Originally Posted by EdinLA44

Fardad,

Most Arkansas stones are less than 2000 grit so the Norton is probably more of what you're looking for.

Ed

Darn, so my translucent arkansas stone is actually a faster cutting stone than the 4k/8k Norton I just ordered? I wanted to get the Norton to cut down my honing time. Argh... I could've sworn I read somewhere that some person was using the Arkansas as his polishing/finishing stone.

Ah well...

Arkansas stones may be of a slightly lower grit, although I think that only the softer Arkansas stones are in the 1K range (I believe my black surgical is likely in the range of 4-5K). HOWEVER, these stones are SLOOOOOW cutting. So, to ease your fears, the Norton is a much faster cutting stone and should greatly reduce your honing time.
Ed