Thread: That last bit of sharp...

Originally Posted by joshearl

I'm doing pyramids and trying to use no pressure at all.

Also, when you're doing the hanging hair test, how fast should you move the hair? It seems like I have to pull it down with quite a bit of force to get it to cut cleanly.

SLOW!!!! If you are moving any faster than a turtle you are going too fast!

I also use my Norton on the counter top while standing. I find that some very even pressure at the top of the pyramid is a good thing for establishing a foundation for the edge. If Lynn's suggestion doesn't work, you might want to try a medium sized pyramid (up to 10/5 or 15/5) with pressure till you get to the middle and then gradually wean that off to ultra light at the end.

As a side note ... The X motion will not work well for me. The edge of the stone just keeps getting in my way, so I lead with the heal straight down the hone and roll the contact with the stone up the edge from heel to tip throughout the stroke. Each honer seems to have to find his own touch. Keep at it, systematically removing or altering one thing at a time and testing your edge regularly (I use the Thumb & Hanging Hair and of course Shave Tests primarily) and you should get closer to discovering what works for you.

X