I own several hones of different grits that can put a straight razor in shave-ready state. I don't use any machinery to cut the razor and set a new bevel. All the honing process is from start to finish done by hand by me. I'm against the use of machinery when it comes to setting a cutting edge on a straight razor because, being a mechanical process, the razor is removed a considerable amount of steel and gets worn out too fast. Also, the resulting edge isn't as keen as the one set by hand using several hones. So, that's why this mechanical process, besides being unable to produce a good result on the edge, also shortens the lifespan of the razor which I firmly believe that can last at least 100 years with proper care.
I usually use the
DMT® D6E Dia-sharp® stone for setting the bevel. This hone has a grit of 1200 and "eats" metal easily. I also have several natural Belgian stones, new and vintage, from
Ardennes, Belgium that have higher grits so that they can smooth and polish the cutting edge of the razor, providing a close and burn-free shave. For that extra keenness I use a Shapton 16000 as a final polishing hone.
I can't accept razors that are very rusty, broken or have a significant smile or frown.
This product was added to our catalog on Sunday 08 February, 2009.
