I know it sounds crazy but the 1k seems to leave some "teeth" on the edge that really cuts the whiskers without hurting the skin. However, the CrO balsa or leather for 40 or more laps followed by leather only for another 100 produced a surprising result. Of course I still prefer my 4k, 8k, and 12k stones, but it certainly confirms the DE credibility at this level. Our edge at 1k is also without the benefit of the coatings used on the DE as a final "smoothing" step. I look forward to your feedback.