So, for the last month or so I have been playing around with a Iwasaki Kamisori.
I believe the one I have been graciously given for a test run, is a 2-Chou Gake, the larger of the two as seen on SRD.
I was given permission to hone it to my own liking by the owner (thanks nikolasnjerve).
Oh what fun it has been!!
I have much to learn when it comes to both the honing and the usage of the Japanese straight, but already see why this way of shaving has its followers.
Honing it has turned out to be quite straight forward.
The ratio I have used, after some trial and error, are 9/2. 9 up and down on the Omote side, then 2 stropping strokes on the Ura.
The hone used for this was a Nakayama Maruka Asagi.
(I couldn't dream of using anything but a Japanese natural on a thing like this, they go together like peas and carrots)
Tenjou first, then a Tomo-Nagura followed by a finish on plain water.
And let me tell you, these things get sharp!
I'm not sure as to how effective my stropping was on this thing, but gave it a good go before each shave nonetheless.
The first few shaves was a bit awkward and not very good to be honest, but it has started to click a bit, and now the shaves are quite usable.
It becomes more natural to me for every shave.
Using just one side of the blade against the face does present some challenges at first, I bet if you had seen me at it you would have had a good laugh.
But, this old dog still manages to pick up a trick or two, so by sticking with it, I'm on my way to learning another fun aspect of this sport.
Anyways, I just wanted to share a new experience with you lot.
If you, as I, have been pondering the Kamisori, I really recommend giving it a go.
Good shaves and great fun to be had from these razors:)
