Thread: How sharp is sharp enough? What let's you know when a refresh or honing is needed?

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Originally Posted by gssixgun

The only "Test" that matters is the shave test, when the razor starts to pull and hesitate it needs a refresh, when it doesn't cut as perfect a swath and starts to leave behind hairs it needs a refresh... period end of story All the other tests are for the honing operations

You are doing way to much, or as we like to say "Less is More"

You could also take up the Maintenance routine where you refresh at a certain time instead of when you feel it say every 2 week or monthly.. that also works


ps: Stropping right before the shave while the lather sets up is the most effective I have found

I didn't know letting the lather set up is something to do. What is the benifit of letting lather set up? I have been doing anything else I need to first so when I get the lather going good I can apply it to my face immediately.

I gave up on the HHT a long time ago. it can vary a lot just depending on the hair you are using. the shave test is all that matters.

I will do a few tests prior to the shave test to let me know if I should even attempt a shave test. Once a razor is shave ready and in rotation most times if one of my razors isn't shaving to my standards, meaning it will give a good shave just not as good as I am looking for, I won't go straight to refreshing the edge. I will actually give the razor one more chance incase my prep or technique was subpar, which most times this is the cause, and if on the next shave it still isn't any better than I will go with refreshing the edge. I seem to be rather heavy handed with my dominant hand so it will throw off my shaves if I am not paying especial attention.

Hey Guys, I know that my blade needs a bit of a touch up when the stroke on my philtrum (yes I did have to look it up) gets a bit tuggy.I find it is one of the most sensitive parts of my face to shave and I can use any part of the blade to take the stroke.Sounds like you are doing an inordinate amount of work, I will usually tree top a few arm hairs to check the blade is pining nicely but only after a hone.Have a look at the Beginners, 1K shave http://straightrazorpalace.com/honin...shave.htmlThis seems like a really good place to start and it has a fair bit of information on various stones as well as when the bevel is set.

philtrum...... hmmm didn't know it had a name, had to google it when I read your post!

I think I have a philtrum. I haven't seen it in 37 years. The cookie duster has been with me a long time.

Ed

Your razor should be "cutting popping off hairs at tree top level" it's up to the shaver to decide if the blade has been honed to it's full potential.

Yes, on the away stroke, (away from you), 2nd photo, you can torque the blade by pushing the thumb. down on the corner.

On the return stroke, (back to you), 3rd photo, push the corner, up to increase torque on the edge.

Use a relaxed grip so you are not pushing down on the strop. It takes a little getting used to.

The flip becomes a roll of the thumb, like flipping a switch.

Originally Posted by Crackers

Hey Guys, I know that my blade needs a bit of a touch up when the stroke on my philtrum (yes I did have to look it up) gets a bit tuggy.I find it is one of the most sensitive parts of my face to shave and I can use any part of the blade to take the stroke.

Yep, the philtrum is the best sensor/indicator for me as well!

I agree with Glen - Its ultimately down to how the blade shaves.

If it pulls, is uncomfortable or scratchy, or doesnt remove hair properly then you need a touch up.

IME if its slighly uncomfortable I find a finisher is enough to bring it back. If its pulling as well, then I'll do 8k and the finisher, and if its not removing hair properly then I'll go down to 4k, then 8k and then finisher.

I too gave up on the HHT as its so variable. Off my honing I pass HHT about 60% of the time, my dad passes every time and mate of mine couldnt get it to pass at all. One razor, three results, but the shave was great we all agreed hehe

All of the tests you hear about (HHT, shaving arm hair, TPT, TNT and so on..) are only really useful when honing to check how an edge is progressing. Once you've been through the honing process the only thing that matters is the shave.

For me I do the TNT to check how a bevel is forming, then see if I can shave arm hair off the 1k. Off the 4k I should be able to start popping arm hair holding the razor about 1mm above the skin, off the 8k I should be able to easily pop arm hair above the skin and then I'm just adding smoothness with either SG 16k or SS12k plus a natural finisher.

Once it gets to the shave test though, its all the steps I first mentioned.

Good luck and keep us posted!