Thread: New Stropping Revalation

Originally Posted by Estroncio

This applies also to honing?


Regards

Dioni

I don't think this applies to honing other than keep the edge in constant contact. While I still am working on the lighest touch I can, I am not there yet.

Originally Posted by Estroncio

This applies also to honing?


Regards

Dioni

No, this does not applies to honing.
In honing the presure must be very very light (almost no pressure but the weight of the blade ) and with uniform distribution on the razors spine and edge.

Originally Posted by Estroncio

This applies also to honing?


Regards

Dioni

Pressure while honing is variable. To say that one only uses light, or no pressure while honing is misleading.

At times, depending on the condition of the razor, slight to moderate pressure at the begining, gradually leading to lighter pressure as the edge develops, is often necessary. One needs to use the moistened thumb nail test to judge this edge development to avoid under, or over-honing the blade.

For quick touch ups, light pressure only (just the weight of the blade) may be sufficient.

It is best (no, it's vital) to try and distribute the pressure evenly over the entire blade while honing. But using the back (spine) of the razor as a "rest" or reference point while honing will help prevent too much emphasis of pressure at the razors edge.


Scott

I find a similarity in the release of pressure in both honing and stropping, but we don't do it all the same, that is for certain.

I'd like to return to the original discussion if I could.

Could those of you who feel you apply pressure to the spine while stropping explain how you do this? I'm at a loss and I promise I've thought about it for a few days. I tried it and wasn't able to apply any pressure and develop a good turn/stroke (which is probably because I'm an uncoordinated dolt).

Originally Posted by AFDavis11

Could those of you who feel you apply pressure to the spine while stropping explain how you do this? I'm at a loss and I promise I've thought about it for a few days. I tried it and wasn't able to apply any pressure and develop a good turn/stroke (which is probably because I'm an uncoordinated dolt).

Pressure is not large, I would estimate twice the weight of the razor. I did it by applying my index finger on the upper corner of the leading edge (the spine) and keeping my thumb on the flat underside of the tang. In this manner I am able to flip the razor reasonably well by effectively rolling my thumb up and back across my forefinger. I am not by any stretch a speed stropper. I take my time with a smooth even stroke and if it takes me a few extra minutes, so be it. My technique is getting smoother with this though and I can now do 50 strokes in the time it used to take me to do 30. That also has improved my shave.