Cost effective hone purchase
I am relatively new to the straight razor and had a question about a new hone purchase. I already have a nice set of Japanese waterstones that I have had for years that go up to 6K. I have used them with good results on my razor. However, I have found that I can only get my razor so sharp. I can get it to where it BARELY passes the HHT, and results in a smooth, tug free shave as long as I go with the grain. However, I can't go against the grain with out massive snagging and pain. I assume the razor just isn't sharp enough as it is duller than a set of DE blades I got for comparison. I think that if I get another, finer stone I can get a better edge and shave. What do you recommend? I know the Norton 4K/8K is popular, but it costs ~$70. I can also get another Japanese waterstone of 8K or 12K for ~$70. Which is a better use of the $70? Or is there another alternative that can improve my edge for the same price, or cheaper? I am a poor grad student trying to support my family of four on my stipend, not a good time to get into the straight razor hobby...
Any advice would be greatly appreciated...