Straight Razor Honing-Naniwa Super Stones

Honing a straight razor from bevel setting to finish using Naniwa Super Stones 1K, 5K, 8K and 12K. Naniwa Super Stones are one of the most reliable and consistent straight razor sharpening stones on the market today.
www.straightraz...

[@deathmo1976]

I have Suehiro Cerax #1000 / Suehiro Rika #5000 / Imanishi Kitayama #8000 and Naniwa Super Stone #12000. And did my first honing with your advice. Wow, is my razor sharp now. Thank you. 😊 Love your other Videos too.

[@tiagandremo]

hello Lynn, i took the advice that you gave me yesterday, manned up and took my razor to my 1k, 3k, 8k and 12k...although i do not have the naniwa stones i took your guide lines and added more strokes where i felt i needed them and it was the BEST shave out of the 10 shaves i have had with a straight razor so far...thank you very much!

[@hukmanshaves6939]

i used this method on my cheap stones and its incredible the results i got on one of the edges its actually picking up stubble that my DE left behind! and that left me bbs in areas that i usually have to go against the grain to get that smooth. with a bit of stretching. thank you soo much for your videos. i had given up on getting a better edge than before i saw these videos!

[@LynnSAbrams]

Thanks!!

[@hukmanshaves6939]

@@LynnSAbrams im actually kind of scared to use the razor now as im worried ill never get another edge that good lol. illogical but hey thats me lol. your a big influence on me so i thank you for replying. are you still in the business?

[@LynnSAbrams]

@@hukmanshaves6939 Retired several years ago 👍

[@Stack3505]

Lynn, thank you sir for your outstanding videos. A couple days ago I ordered the 1, 5, 8 & 12K Naniwa Super Stones, strope and .25 diamond spray from your site. They arrived this morning; that is some fast service you provide! Will be testing all the new toys out tonight after work. Love your site and thanks again!

[@LynnSAbrams]

In my opinion, a razor after honing and when used every day, should last around 2-3 months before needing a refreshing. I recommend 4-7 light strokes on either chromium oxide or .5 diamond followed by 40-60 strokes on your leather strop. This will usually refresh the razor. When this quits working, then I would go to 4-7 strokes on the 12K followed by either the chromium oxide or .5 diamond and again a regular stropping. By doing this, you should be able to maintain your razor for a long time.

[@manishbhoola]

Golden words !

[@jdgibson7636]

Thanks Lynn, I received a Norton 4k/8k in the post today along with a Mountain Mike strop. Used your circle method - fantastic, many thanks

[@LynnSAbrams]

Hi David, I just usually remove the label and sprinkle water over the hone until it quits drinking. You will see the water start to pool on the surface after just a few sprinkles or yo can soak the stone for just a couple minutes. I don't obsess over flat, so I will just use a new one until you can see the metal particles on the surface. At this point, and while the stone is wet, I will lap it and clean it with either a GDLP or DMT.

[@Yggdrasil42]

Thanks for the clear video. Much more educational than most other honing tutorials on KZbin. Good filming and clear audio, and you do a good job separating practice from myth. I just ordered a Naniwa set from SRD and would also love to see a lapping tutorial, since that's pretty much the only step I don't fully understand yet. Much appreciated.

[@JohnTheHater]

I have the same stones and SRD paddle strop. It's a great set up that won't break the bank Great video, thanks.

[@LynnSAbrams]

When you see the water displacement as a straight line in front of the razors edge, you are keeping the edge on the stone as you perform your honing stroke.

[@garrydolley]

Excellent video! I have an old Geneva Cutlery razor (circa 1930s) that I could never quite get sharp enough. I used your techniques in this video (I have those exact stones too; purchased from your store last year :) and finally the razor provided a good shave! I had to perform the whole procedure twice.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I am putting equal pressure on both the spine and the edge as I do both the circles and the X strokes. Try a few extra X strokes after the circles and see if that improves your TPT. Thanks!

[@jeffrx]

Awesome. I'm going to buy all of these stones from your site and try to incorporate your method.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I would say to refresh the razor when it starts to pull a little. Usually 4-7 light strokes on a chromium oxide treated webbing followed by a regular stropping will refresh the razor. When that quits working then 5-10 light strokes on a finishing stone like the Naniwa SS 12K followed by the chromium oxide and stropping should maintain your razor for a very long time.

[@LynnSAbrams]

The X stroke does involve moving the blade sideways. Some people make a larger sideways movement than others. I like to keep as much razor on the stone as possible and only use a smaller sideways movement. I still end up with angular striations on the edge which I also think is a good thing. I do prefer the 3 inch stones and find them much easier to use and much easier to teach new people to have success with them.

[@LynnSAbrams]

The approach or process shown in this video, for most blades, works very well and has some flexibility built in.

[@LynnSAbrams]

It is not uncommon for a new razor to feel uncomfortable on the first shave. The biggest problem usually is technique. You need to try to keep the razor vertical when shaving for it to cut properly. That said, It is a good idea to strop the razor before use. If it has not been honed and if it is brand new, then that may need addressing as well. Some vendors hone new razors and some do not.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Thanks. Normally I will do a dozen razors or so before cleaning or lapping the stone. If you want, you can just spritz on a little water and rub off most of the swarf between razors.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I clean the stones after every use, so essentially they are lapped, cleaned and ready for the next use. I use a GDLP which is pretty expensive, but a DMT 325 under running water works fine. Make sure the stone is wet though for cleaning and lapping.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I usually lap them when I get them and then most of the swarf can be rubbed off after use with your finger. I generally will give them a light rub with the DMT 325 after 3-4 uses depending on how many razors I have done per sitting. Normally 12 per sitting. Make sure they are wet when lapping and cleaning. I usually will do both under running water.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Hi Chris, that is a K11 Keen Kutter. Made in Germany for Simmons Hdwe in St. Louis I believe. Very nice shavers. Thanks.

[@gregoryburris6374]

Made up my mind. Im getting the Super Stones. Thank you Sir

[@LynnSAbrams]

Hi Danny, In my opinion, the Super Stones work great without the slurry stones. I have experimented with them and they brought nothing to the table, so I don't use them at all.

[@LynnSAbrams]

They are mounted on plastic holders. Never used end clamps, but these bases work very well for me.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Normally once the bevel is set and the razor is honed, you can maintain a razor with either pastes or the 12K stone for a very long time. I would only go back to the 1K if the edge got damaged.

[@AnthonyFister]

Great information, Lynn. My favorite sharpening stones is also the Naniwa. FYI, your link in the description gives a page not found (in case you want to update it).

[@LynnSAbrams]

You can try the 8K for refreshing your razor. For full honing you will need the other stones. If the razors are in nice condition and need re-honing, I would recommend the 5K, 8K and 12K Superstones. If you are going to be setting bevels as well, I would get either the 800 or 1K also.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I would agree that most new razors are not shave ready out of the box regardless of technique. Technique is a normal problem for new shavers and the razor must be held more vertical for good results. Normally a few light pressure strokes on the 12K followed by a few light strokes with chromium oxide and a regular stropping will refresh a razor. Honing like shaving is a learned art however and both take practice to become proficient.

[@kryptonionknight]

Nice ring, brother. Happy “Travels”.

[@drmatt357]

Well done Lynn. You make it look so easy. Question regarding the 12k SS. After use and there is some metal on it from the previous home, can you just go to the next blade or should it be lapped to remove that residue?

[@LynnSAbrams]

In my opinion, using the 3/8 is very similar to the 5/8 from a results standpoint. I don't think you need to add the 5K into your regiment, but you certainly could if you wanted to.

[@pipinfool]

Thanks for shedding some light on this, brother.

[@tbrownmusic]

Super informative video, thanks Lynn

[@daghaalsuii]

Thank you, Brother, for your highly efficient, informative, yet down-to-earth instructional videos! They make me want to retry straight razor shaving. I've bee n a double-edge shaver for years, and my first and last time I shaved with straight razor, I looked like death warmed over. Even though my straight razor was "sucking" great on the honing stone, I just could not get the razor sharp enough. Any tips?

[@TheElektrikChair]

Awesome Lynn.! Thank You.

[@mahtay2000]

What do you mean by 'even water displacement?' Is it too see that the edge is evenly pressured on the stone, or is it some special experience for seeing if it is getting to the required sharpness? Cheers for sharing your experience...

[@LynnSAbrams]

You can try the 8K and see what happens. In most cases, I find that if I can just see the nick, then I try the 4K first to remove it. If that doesn't work easily, I will then re-set the bevel and do a complete re-honing.

[@chrisharrisseacaptainchris]

have you heard of k11 keenkut? how would you rate it? i bought 1 yesterday,and its from early 1900s seems to be in perfect. shape.my mother owned a barber shop and used to shave me.she passed away 14 years ago,and i miss the close shave a straight razor gives.luckily she showed me how to sharpen and maintain hers so it will pay off now.lol this will be the first time in years ive shaved with 1.thank you for the videos.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I would try the 1K first. Normally those little chips come out with a couple sets of circles followed by 25-30 X strokes. Good luck.

[@jameshorton7216]

Nice ring my brother.

[@LynnSAbrams]

It's a Lynn Abrams Modular Paddle Strop from SRD.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Hi Jay, It's really a matter of practice at first and for most using a little too much pressure from the 8K to finish. The other thing is that if you are test shaving and something is not right on your first pass down from one sideburn, don't go any further and either try a little chromium oxide or .5 diamond if you're close or back to the hones a bit. Feel free to shoot me a PM and I'll send you my phone number to see if I can give you more help if you need it. Fraternally

[@Degan092786]

I just bought a set of naniwa stones from you and i had a question about them. Are they ready to use out of the box or do they require more attention. Also I have to say thank you for all of the videos and literature it is a huge help.

[@cowboyway357]

Very informative, Thank You Brother

[@LynnSAbrams]

I try not to sharpen too much into the shoulder or stabilizer. The spine and the edge should both be on the stone when sharpening. If you cant the shoulder a little forward keeping the razor flat on the stone, it is easier not to sharpen into it. Thanks.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Whenever I am in doubt as to the condition of the bevel, I will usually start off with the 1K and make sure I set a bevel. I normally will set a bevel on ebay purchases. Most new razors don't have the wear that the older ones have and you have a great chance of success when starting off with the 4K.

[@LynnSAbrams]

You can try it. Personally, I find the DMT's a little harsher than other stones out there.

[@vjanda1]

Hi, this is all very new to me. By X stroke to you mean moving the blade sideways as well as up down? There seems to be very little sideways movement from what I can see. I am better of with a 2" or 3" wide stone for bevel setting and honing? Many thanks

[@troygarrigues7149]

Hi Lynn, I have a dovo best quality that i put very very small chip in the outer edge, Hit the faucet DA!!. will the 1000 take it out or should i use the 220 then work up. i have never had to touch the 220 with a razor

[@FUNTANGO]

Thanks, Brother.

[@TSWislaK]

Mr Abrams, thank you for all of the videos. I am confused about something though. For a new razor, to set the bevel, can you start at 4K with the circle method? I am not sure when or if you should use a 1K stone for a new blade. Thank you.

[@Superfr3aks]

I bought a set of these stones from straight razor design, and have been using them very successfully with my Dovo best quality razor, so thanks of this video and sending them to me in the UK. I only have one question do these stones need lapping or re-flatening at some stage?

[@LynnSAbrams]

In my opinion, when the metal builds up on the surface, it should be cleaned/lapped. I clean/lap all my synthetic stones after use which is usually after honing a couple dozen razors.

[@SendIt2121]

Would you recommend these stones for sharpening carbon steel knives such as kitchen knives hunting knives pocket knives?

[@mkaltiok]

Good stuff Lynn, as always. I have a pressure question. When you set your bevel on 1k and first circles on 5k, do you keep the pressure constant and do you torque the edge or is the pressure evenly on both spine and the edge? I am having trouble in this part because it seems the edge does not get fine enough to pass TPT. Thanks.

[@lingcod91]

Do these stones come mounted on the wood base? How are they attached? I assume some form of glue is employed. Do you feel this method is better than the pressure from end clamps?

[@banxt]

Hi Lynn! I see that these stones come to 1K, 2K, 3K, 5K, 8K, 10K and 12K... Which combination would you recommend for a new razor that is not damaged? I think that the lower numbers are for removing metal faster, so a 8K followed by a 12K would be enough?

[@010falcon]

Reason that the 1k isnt as abrasive as something like a norton Is because the 1k speciality stone has gotten a weird grit rating system Its more like a 2k grit

[@magnoliamike]

If your bevel has a low spot but the bevel is set, is it okay to keep going until it’s almost perfectly level? Because my Friodur has a low spot but it shaves good. Just an aesthetic issue. I’m so used to carbon steel razors when I got my J.A Henckels Friodur I could tell I slight difference between how it felt in the hone and on my face. With time I’ll get accustomed to it. It’s such a fine looking piece

[@emremusovi1697]

Ty for the video. Btw can we avoid circular movements in 5k and just make 10 strokes instead of five ?

[@LynnSAbrams]

I would say give it a try and see if it works for you 👍

[@sterlingcampbell2116]

Also if it's a 3 inch edge and a 3 inch stone why do X strokes rather than lapping up and down? Thank you for your video.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Sterling Campbell IMO the x stroke provides a better cutting action than a straight up and down stroke.

[@sterlingcampbell2116]

@@LynnSAbrams I appreciate the brevity of your response.

[@kennethjallington]

i just got the dovo astrale, i stropped it a few times and shaved. I should mention it was my first time shaving with a real razor. It was terribly uncomfortable and i assume i didnt sharpen the razor enough (it pulled on my hairs). Do you have to hone and strap out of the box?

[@Daveydee7]

Hi there! These are great videos. I'm a newbie to all of this, and my question is, how often do I need to rehone? I now own a Norton 4k/8k and a 12k finishing stone that I bought off Amazon. I've been shaving with a straight razor for about 4 months now and have honed twice. My honing is definitely not perfect, but I'm just wondering if I can freshen the blade with the finishing stone when it starts "tugging" instead of going all the way back to the 4k?

[@LynnSAbrams]

You can. Check out my refreshing video too and see if that helps you. Normally, I get a couple months off a fresh honing if I use the same razor every day, before I need a refresh. Thanks.

[@everettwhite9874]

Lynn, when you use the thumb test and the razor doesn't bite into a couple sections of the blade, how do you even those areas? Should you repeat the circle and X strokes over the entire blade or concentrate on the uneven areas?

[@LynnSAbrams]

I normally will do a set or two of additional X strokes covering the entire blade. If that doesn't get me there, I usually will try another set of circles and X strokes.

[@banxt]

I have bought a DOVO razor, and after carefully stropping it (without putting any pressure and taking my time in order not to dull the blade), I didn't get the desired shave. I know that most of the razors are not shave-ready but I think that it is mainly lack of technique, as I am a newbie Anyhow in the future a honing stone will be needed, is it OK to go for now with just a 12K ? What is your suggestions? Thank you Lynn! :-)

[@ladduro]

Hi Lynn, Lets say I have done this process on my razor. After 6 months or so of shaving, when I feel that the razor need some honing I have to take the same process from the beginning ? I dont see a point in setting a bevel again (assuming that it is not chipped). So, in this case, what honing procedure are you using ? Some (15-20) strokes on 12k only ? Or starting below with 8k ? An answer will be much appreciated.

[@JSMcustoms]

How often do you find these stones need to be flattened?

[@miked104]

I noticed you use edge leading strokes when honing on stones. Are edge trailing strokes not ideal?

[@LynnSAbrams]

IMO edge trailing strokes are less reliable and consistent. They can be used for shorter regiments like touch ups.

[@miked104]

@@LynnSAbrams thanks!

[@LynnSAbrams]

I try to sharpen right to the heel of the razor without sharpening up into the shoulder when possible.

[@fancy.orange]

Thank you for reply. Is it possible to use same approach through all stones or only for setting bevel?

[@LynnSAbrams]

In my opinion, if it cuts hair off the 1K, you are good to move on. Personally, I look for the razor to want to bite into my thumb pad and not let go. Feels like if I put any more pressure on it, it will cut me. I call that feeling pocket knife sharp and then I move on.

[@johnistraining]

Hi Lynn, I just purchased the naniwa 3k 8k combo and a 1k, is a 1 3 8 progression inferior to 158? Should i still get a 5k next time i'm putting in an order? (i only order when i have over 150 or so of stuff to buy as shipping to australia from most places is expensive)

[@LynnSAbrams]

Actually, after bevel setting, the 3K, 8K and 12K finisher in the Naniwa Super Stones works very well. I have used it on thousands of razors. I have experienced no difference in final results from substituting the 3K, 4K or 5K stones using the process demonstrated in this video.

[@Phrankiebee]

Hey Lynn, I've been using a straight razor for about 4 months now and only been stropping it I have yet to feel the need to sharpen my blade. How often should I sharpen/ hon it and can I get away with just using one stone, if so which one would you recommend?

[@LynnSAbrams]

Thanks. Have fun.

[@LynnSAbrams]

Will do. Thanks!

[@Lokireloaded]

Is it okay to leave slurry residue on a whetstone or should it be washed off?

[@Societylee]

My new dovo (after some corrections) with some time on the 1000 grit norton doing for circles /w pressure, x stokes then 40 without pressure and x strokes is now able to cut arm hair(against the skin) with moderate pressure. Would you say that is about what you'd lke to achieve from 1k stone? If not what would you recommend to get it where it needs to be. I evened out the concaveness my blade had so its straght now and then performed your routine

[@shaneorme2721]

I thought so, many thanks.

[@gregoryburris6374]

Do these stones last? Need flattening much? Thank you, Greg

[@aznboi1214]

Hi Lynn, quick question, I have a bunch of stones that are japanese but aren't naniwa, are they okay to use? Second question is i have 4k and 6k, what should i sub for the 5k you use with this method?

[@LynnSAbrams]

I have another video on honing using a Rolling X stroke which may help you in that area.

[@johndunn3749]

i notice that u don't use tape on the spine. what r your thoughts on taping to preserve the spine or to set a steeper bevel if the spine is already worn.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I will use tape when I am protecting a Damascus pattern or if a razor is in need of a lot of repair. Many people use tape when honing and if that is your preference, you should use it. The Naniwa Super Stones are great cutters, but are less abrasive than many other stones and you don't really see much wear from them unless you are doing a serious repair. Once the razor is fully honed, you really shouldn't have to do much after, except for refreshing and maintaining your edge. Have fun.

[@jimramsden9463]

Lynn Abrams Need correct.address to send razor

[@K37J]

Lynn, do you think setting a bevel then going to the super stones in 3k then 5k then 12k as a finisher is too big a jump?

[@wesleyking3739]

I recently bought a 3000/8000 combination stone. Looking at the surface of the stone though, there are little "holes" or large pores. Is this normal?

[@f00by]

when you are honing a razor with a heel like the one in the video. During the straight strokes, how close do you get to the heel? Thanks for all your videos Lynn.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I try to get right up to the heel or stabilizer. Thanks!

[@dozersissy]

hi Lynn I just bought some Naniwa ss for my razors so my question is do I have to flatten them before I use them or do thay come flat enough to use

[@LynnSAbrams]

+dozersissy I normally just use them right out of the box and keep them clean and mostly flat with a diamond plate following use.

[@robertirvin3333]

+dozersissy Hey mate, the naniwa superstones for some unknown reason have an adhesive clear sticker on the stone. You obviously have to remove it, once you do, you need to lap the stone, as there is residual adhesive on the face of the stone. So lap it before use.

[@sterlingcampbell2116]

Are you actually doing circles? It looks like you're going back and forth. Perhaps a really sharp oval?

[@LynnSAbrams]

Sterling Campbell Small circles.

[@SuperFlatrock]

How does the process compare to the Norton 4000/8000 combination stone?

[@LynnSAbrams]

SuperFlatrock In my experience, the Naniwa Stones are the most reliable and consistent set up out there.

[@Johnny1Rocket]

What kind of paddle strop is that?

[@Hagantic]

I have Diasharp continous diamond stones up to 8000 grit is the 8000 diamond ok for touch up honing?

[@jdgibson7636]

Can you tell me what grade stone to buy first, I have two relatively new straight razors. I have been using green chrome oxide paste to refresh them.

[@LynnSAbrams]

When the chromium oxide quits working, I normally will go to a finishing stone next to maintain the edge. Check out my refreshing video.

[@emremusovi1697]

Dear lynn, if you have 20k stone, do you still need a diamond paste? İf so would be 0,25 micron? And same question goes for 30k stone Thank you very much

[@LynnSAbrams]

I actually like the 20K stone better than the 30K. .5 micron can be okay but not more than a couple strokes. I would test shave first off either stone to see how the razor shaves. Have fun!

[@emremusovi1697]

@@LynnSAbrams thank you , so i will do 30 laps 12k, 20 laps 20k, and 10 laps 30k finally 5 laps 0,25 mikron . Thank you

[@jaycool6195]

hey Lynn what is your opinion on the ax method for setting the bevel it looks like it would be a bit easier

[@LynnSAbrams]

Jay Cool This is more a YMMV thing. I find the Circle process to be the most consistent for me and I use it every day. On razors where I need to move a lot of metal or do serious repairs, I may use the Ax or Chisel method. Have fun.

[@davidloss2608]

Do those holders, the brown ones under the stones you are using come with the stones when you buy them?

[@LynnSAbrams]

David Loss They used to. At this time they don’t and the Naniwa holder is recommended.

[@davidloss2608]

Thank You!

[@vjanda1]

I find it hard to keep the razor flat on the hone. Is there anything wrong with using my other hand to support the tip while honing? Thanks

[@LynnSAbrams]

I normally don't recommend this as it typically results in uneven pressure being applied to the blade, but you can certainly give it a try and see if it works for you.

[@TenguTerror427]

I have a small knick on the toe of my razor would I have to reset the bevel or can I start with a 8k?

[@emremusovi1697]

Dear lynn, suehiro gokumyo 20k is 0,5 mikron. Shapton 30 k is 0,49. Ao can we say that they are basically at same grit and should finish with one of them? Or should use gokumyo first and finish with shapton ? Ty

[@LynnSAbrams]

I prefer the Suehiro over the Shapton in this case. It is my go to finisher.

[@emremusovi1697]

@@LynnSAbramsty very much lynn. they look same as aggresiveness, since same micron right ?

[@LynnSAbrams]

@@emremusovi1697 To me, the Shapton provides a little harsher edge when used for the finish.

[@emremusovi1697]

@@LynnSAbrams so lynn as order, i should use naniwa 12 k than suehiro and finish with shapton ? To get more sharp edge? I like sharp and harsh finish

[@LynnSAbrams]

@@emremusovi1697 I go from the 12K to the finisher. If the edge feels good to you using the 20K and 30K, that’s perfect. Have fun!

[@LynnSAbrams]

If the razor is shave ready, the strop should be fine for a couple months.

[@MrSilvestre587]

Please, could you tell me, in your opinion, which stone, the Naniwa Pro or the Superstone, is better for honing straight razors according to how fast they cut and how they feel when honing razors?

[@LynnSAbrams]

To me they both work very well and consistently. The Pro’s will obviously last longer if you’re going to do a lot of honing. Both are quick cutters and provide good feedback imo.

[@MrSilvestre587]

​@@LynnSAbrams would you consider the Naniwa Pro 1k as better bevel setter than the Super stone 1k?

[@LynnSAbrams]

I like the Pro’s best except for the 12K Superstone.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I like the feel of the Pro’s better except for the 12K Superstone.

[@MrSilvestre587]

@@LynnSAbrams do the Pro's wear much steel from the spine of the razor when honing? Is it noticeable?

[@shaneorme2721]

Hi Lynn, have you heard of the puma no 3 extrafein pasta chromium oxide, do you know what microns it is? Many thanks Shane.

[@LynnSAbrams]

I believe the Puma Chromium Oxide bars are supposed to be .5 microns, but not totally sure.