Thanks Hav',

So far, I can tell you I felt grippage on the thumbnail after some strokes on the 1K.

Then, to the 5k, I believe I discerned some thumb pad evidence of increasing sharpness. After my dinner here at the local pub, if not too ... uhhhh, unsteady, I'll set to pyramiding the 5 and 8 k stones.

You know, maybe there should be a wiki on this, or maybe not, but you boys surely know what I mean when I say that there is a certain indescribable thrill when you seize yourself of this ancient art form, and begin to see some results from the efforts of your own hand. The shave was one such thrill, but actually honing my own straight razor -- It takes it to another level.

I'll report back with my efforts to progress from 5 to 8. I think I'll wait till the morning though. One thing I think I can "discern" is that I'm already a little . . . relaxed!