Quote Originally Posted by stimpy52 View Post
Magic marker. Rocks. Thumb. Water. Occasional paper towel. I can't imagine that a 19th century barber spent too much time peering into a microscope. Heck, he didn't have the magic marker and paper towels.

I know, I'm just a crabby old man, but it might be time to put the microscope away for a while.

You don't necessarily have to buy junk razors for honing practice, just a couple that you won't feel too bad about if the bevel starts creeping around on you.
I can't disagree with you but keep in mind 60 years ago every barber knew how to shave customers with a str8 and could and would teach others how to do it. When your learning essentially by yourself with the help of great places like this site, a microscope can help keep you on track. BTW, I would pay to take a class on razor honing and restoration.