Thread: Burnt the stuffing out of my cheeks!

Yea, I've heard the Guangxi hones referred to as a Chinese hone of indeterminate grit. I use it solely because now after an excruciating amount of prep, it has finally started creating finer striations than the Norton 8k hone. I don't know that it's a true 12K hone, but it's somewhere between a Norton 8k and a black Arkansas stone, so I've kept it around anyway.

Yea, if you get a good one, they can finish. I have an old one that has been burnished and it does finish nicely.

So are you seeing a lot of chipping, if so you have to figure out why.

I suspect it will get better as it's used, as most naturals do. Time will tell though.

I saw 1 little micro chip, and I think I roughed up the first 3/8 or so of the toe. It doesn't look too bad, but probably to much CrOx like y'all said. I didn't inspect it with the loupe while stropping.

Originally Posted by Euclid440

Chinese stones are not 12K, some are better than others, but I doubt any are 12K, maybe 6-8k tops.

I am not sure of the grit as it is impossible to determine on any natural hone but I had a thuringen that came close to my guangxi stone but not quite as sharp. I have also tried edges from others here that finished on eschers that were as smooth but once again not as sharp as my guangxi hone. I gave up trying to find anything better unless I sold my collection for a Japanese hone. I imagine they maybe as good if not better. It all depends on the chunk of stone you get. IMO. That's why when you get a remarkable hone no matter what it's called-HANG ON TO IT!

As far as burning up your cheeks there could be many many factors going on here. Too much of one stone or a paste, need to switch up your technique, not enough work on a finisher to remove scratches creating an uncomfortable shave, ect. You have got a lot of useful tips and leads here to follow. Especially if you can see the edge has problems under magnification. The only thing I will add is that when I use a razor that has taken an incredibly sharp edge I need to be very careful in angle and pressure or I will end up with a bloody rash on my cheeks. This is an easy area for me to shave so I tend to fly through it not taking my time which usually leads to an error. Every razor is a bit different and you have to try different things methodically to learn what is going on. Again, you have got a lot of good info here to try. Keep at it and you'll get it.

Yep, I agree. Just go back to 12k and then do what you do but don't over do the cro ox

Hey marshal,
you can get sharp edges that are harsh and sharp edges that are more mellow, i don't know the exact mechanics of which is sharper but regardless I would prefer a mellow edge over a harsh edge any day. I have recently started experimenting with pastes and find that the second shave is usually better than the first, with hones I found it to be 3 or 4 shaves in.

I agree with ya edhewitt. I've definitely noticed that it mellows out by the second or third shave.Mellow is definitely preferable.

I think I found the source of the nicks. I went back to the translucent Arkie and used the corner to straighten the edge. Then I ran the blade over it, paying a little more attention to the stroke this time. It was very faint but every now and again I felt it tag something. Had to soap up the stone and wash it off. I have no idea what was on it, but it was tiny and able to ding up the edge. I guess I was moving too quick to notice yesterday. Slow & steady wins the race.

Now I'm willing to wager she's shave ready. I just need my beard to hurry and grow so I can test it.