Thread: Trying to Hone

Hello Everyone,
I've tried to read as many posts on the subject before bothering you all but I've recently tried to start honing after years of shaving with straights.
I used the circle method on the norton 4k and I can definitely get it to shave arm hair. The problem is when I go to the 8k for as little as 6 x strokes, it becomes dull and cannot shave. Any thoughts.

I haven't bothered going to my 12k.

It's a good new dovo that has been honed professionally in the past.

Rich

I'm guessing you did lap both sides of your combo stone?

If not, then that'd be the problem. If so, I'd still say to try again. Make sure both the 4k and especially the 8k side are smooth and flat. Then have another go.

Good thinking on not moving any higher. It wouldn't do a bit of good.

How were you maintaining your straights before?

Yeah I'll give it another shot. I'll lap the 8k again. Thanks Joe.

As far as maintaining, I would use paste to touch up and send them off to Lynn when needed. I could usually make a razor last on paste for a good 3 to 4 months before needing to go to the stones.

I`m new at this myself and am waiting for my shave ready razor from Whipped Dog Larry...I`ve tried my hand at knife making and sharpening..I might give the sharpening thing a try on my ebay Crowing Rooster,but I think I`m going to leave the shave ready sharpening to someone who know`s what happening...I did ok getting a knife sharp,but getting a straight razor sharp enough to shave MY FACE is something else,lol....

Originally Posted by Paul2281

I`m new at this myself and am waiting for my shave ready razor from Whipped Dog Larry...I`ve tried my hand at knife making and sharpening..I might give the sharpening thing a try on my ebay Crowing Rooster,but I think I`m going to leave the shave ready sharpening to someone who know`s what happening...I did ok getting a knife sharp,but getting a straight razor sharp enough to shave MY FACE is something else,lol....

You're right, they are different! But I think you have a good idea: have one for practicing on, and another to be sent to a pro until you've nailed the honing thing. It isn't rocket science, but it does take patience, a steady hand, a light touch, and time & practice.

Originally Posted by Cangooner

You're right, they are different! But I think you have a good idea: have one for practicing on, and another to be sent to a pro until you've nailed the honing thing. It isn't rocket science, but it does take patience, a steady hand, a light touch, and time & practice.

Thats my plan brother...I just don`t want to mess up on something that is right on already...I have a good magnifying glass so I can take a good look at the bevel/angles on the shave ready razor..

Maybe just maybe your not useing enough pressure on the 8K stone?? while light touch is good on your finishing stones, the blade does have to be it consistant touch with the stone surface, just don't over do it or you will kill the edge with to much pressure, confusing ain't it!!!

Just keep practicing, it is a learn skill. takes time even for the best of us!!! After 3 years I'm still trying to figure it all out!!!


Have a great shave, and a good week!!

how exactly are you using the 8k?

X strokes no pressure. About 6 to 8.