Thread: 4/8 vs 5/8 or 7/8 razor ?

I don't see much value in a strop costing more than $50, the less expensive ones work just as well. Of course if you want to spend more and can afford it, no reason you should not.

I disagree with Glen on the honing issue. I have always honed my own razors, all of which were bought off of ebay and were decidedly not shave ready. I have never understood the level of angst that many show with regard to honing, it is really not that difficult to learn. As far as hones go, your best bet is a Norton 4/8K waterstone, relatively inexpensive and sufficient for all but the dullest razors. As with strops, there are more expensive stones out there, but I just don't see the value. Also as with strops, if spending more makes you feel better, and you can afford it, why not.

Originally Posted by fccexpert

I disagree with Glen on the honing issue. I have always honed my own razors, all of which were bought off of ebay and were decidedly not shave ready. I have never understood the level of angst that many show with regard to honing, it is really not that difficult to learn. As far as hones go, your best bet is a Norton 4/8K waterstone, relatively inexpensive and sufficient for all but the dullest razors. As with strops, there are more expensive stones out there, but I just don't see the value. Also as with strops, if spending more makes you feel better, and you can afford it, why not.

Because we are talking about a beginner with 1 (one) razor. Chances are he'll mess up the blade trying to hone it, and he should not need a hone for the first few weeks, anyhow. So, yes, I fully agree with Glen.