Originally Posted by
Droshi
I think he was just referring to me deviating from "correct" form in general. But I could be wrong...
I believe the correct traditional way to hone these is on a natural Japanese stone, using the "washboard" technique with a 3:2 ratio of 3 strokes hollow side (back and forth), 2 strokes wedge side (back and forth). If you want to make a shorter "pass", you just shorten the length of your washboard strokes. With natural stones I believe pressure is always used even up until final finishing, but I don't know for sure.
For me I just went to try to experiment. This was one of the reasons for me purchasing a couple Tosuke razors before I bought an Iwasaki to experiment with. Right now, I'm trying to find some cheaper ones for a couple friends who I have sparked their interest in, but $150+ is too much for them to spend right off on a first razor. I'll check out yahoo auctions...I cruised around babashoten, but the only page I found was the one I already knew about.
Thanks for the tip on where to look...I was quite sure I've seen other vintage razors around, so I knew they existed. But you are right when you say it would be like someone else talking about only DOVO and TI, because they are the only brands in production still (similar to Tosuke and Iwasaki). I'll post if I find anything or secure any more razors in auctions.