Search:

My Shaptons weren't even *close* to being flat when I received them new. They were very un-even...kinda "wavy". There's also been a few threads about Norton's needing to be honed when new, as well.
...

A newbs vote for a newbs new honing kit:

1. A DMT8C for lapping other stones

2. A 1K stone of your choice. Norton, Shapton, Naniwa.. whatever fits your budget.

3. A 4k stone of your choice
...