Originally Posted by
roughkype
Swatys are good barber hones, that's it. Some barber hones are better than others, and Swatys are better than many. Barber hones, though they have very fine grits, also have a very high grit to binder ratio so they cut faster than you might expect of such a fine stone. They're good for quick touchup of a dulling edge, but not for repair of a damaged one.
I understand the urge to build your balsa strop. That material sitting around is so much unrealized potential.
If you find your honing didn't help, PM me and I'll hone it up for you. I'll unpin, clean up, and repin it for you too. Hinge gunk is a real peeve of mine. Just cover the postage.
Best wishes for better shaves!