Thread: I finally got one honed

Jeez ,after months of trying to get a razor honed I finally got my TI sharp.This has really been a struggle for me for some reason.I took the advice from others on this site and got a Norton 1k to set the bevel with.I tried several times on some of my ebay razors and went from the 1k to the 4k and then to the 8k and left the 12k put up as most have told me to only go up to the 8k until I can get a good sharp razor from that befor going any higher.Still know luck,so I decided to get my in need of honing TI out and try it.So I started with the 1k then when it felt like it was sharp I moved to the 4k then to the 8k ,then I stoped it and gave it a try .Well to say the least it did not shave worth a crap and I again at my witts end,but decided I would get the Naniwa 12 k out and give it a try as nothing else I am doing is working.I made a 75 ultra light passes on the 12 K and then ran it across my arm and it was popping hair like crazy.So this morning I got up and latherd up with some Cyril Salter Vetiver and got dang good shave.I dont understand why I couldnt get a good shave off the 8k but could on the 12 k but I dont care as I finally took a dull razor and somehow managed to get it shave ready ,and I am now a happy camper.Learning to shave for me was very easy ,but boy this honing was another story.

Thanks to all for your help
Sharps

Glad it worked out for you in the end. I have to say I have had a different experience. Been using a 3000/8000 Naniwa combo stone and shaving off the 8000 after stropping on a crox pasted balsa strop. I guess everyone has to find a method that works for them. Just ordered a 1000 for really bad edges and a 12000 for a finisher to see if that will make a difference too. Sounds like the 12000 just might do the trick.

Bob

Have you been using the 4k for a while & then just setting it aside & going to the 8k? Using them both in a pyramid as shown in the library here made a big different for me.

Well done, sir!

Well done indeed. Those TIs can be some hard steel!

Are you stropping before you test your 8k edges? Try that if you haven't so far. The stropping can really settle an edge that isn't too nice right off the hone.

Bravo Sharps.

First shaving edge of your own is worth savoring. I about choked at the 75 strokes on the N12. Its a fast cutter. The counsel to work on your 8k finish, I think, is very sound.

FWIW, Fleabay blades are NOT what you want to try to learn honing on. Most require restorative grinding before any real honing can start. That grinding often belongs on the Norton 220 or a DMT 325. A blade that's full hollow, has a straight edge (no smiling blades) and no warp or wave is ideal. If it takes buying a humble blade from another shaver, it would be money well spent.

A couple hundred blades from now, it'll make alot more sense - most of the time. The rest of the time can require adult beverage.

Keep up the practice. PM me if you get stuck.