Thread: thumb pad test - a few questions

When you draw your thumbpad over a sharpened edge what you're feeling are all those microteeth against your skin which provides what to me is kind of a rough sensation on the thumbpad. If the thumbpad is very smooth those teeth are not well developed.

As newbie I could also use more information on the sensation of the thumbpad test. what does "draw" feel like? How much pressure? Does the pad move along the blade at all, or just touch it?

I don't know if this sort of thing can be taught through words. I have tried to learn off a DE blade but still not sure what I am looking for.

Bill

I have one question about the thumbpad test, too: Do you wet your thumb first? I know the thumbnail test is done with water, but I'm not sure about the thumbpad test.

This one still eludes me.

Thanks,
Josh

Originally Posted by Twilliger

As newbie I could also use more information on the sensation of the thumbpad test. what does "draw" feel like?

I wouldn't use tha word 'draw'. To me what it feels like if the edge is near ready is a tickling sensation. Before that it's a little rougher. If I've overoned it gets kinda 'bitey' or 'grabby'.

Originally Posted by Twilliger

How much pressure?

ZERO!

Originally Posted by Twilliger

Does the pad move along the blade at all, or just touch it?

The thumb is delicately drawn laterally across the edge and not along it.

Originally Posted by joshearl

I have one question about the thumbpad test, too: Do you wet your thumb first?

In my experience it's definitely better that way

X

Apparently the way I have been performing the thumb pad test is wrong but I will share what I do anyway as it works for me.

Using my Lynn honed razor as a guide I would very lightly touch the edge with the outer inside edge of the ball of my thumb, a keen edge (like this one) would sink into the skin creating a sticky sensation when I would lift my thumb.

On my own razors I will check the edge in different places to check the stickiness while finishing. I also use the hair on the inside of my arm, honing/testing to the point where it matches the Meister razors (no popping) cutting ability in the same spot, then test shave.

Miles