I have 3 of my late Dad’s straight razors. He was a barber and sharpened them himself. They are at least 80 years old and rusty, yet STILL sharp enough to shave with. I thought maybe I’d try to sharpen them to get rid of the rust and corrosion, but no, I’m pretty uncoordinated and would probably ruin them! RIP, dad❤️
Thank you for making these videos. I'm a barber but in my shop I am in charge of sharpening shears and blades. These videos are so helpful!!! Thank you!! Sincerely, A lady barber from Detroit
Thanks, Geo. It's great to see that, at every step of the way after beginning to learn straight razor technique and maintenance, you are there, giving every necessary piece of information and demonstration for doing things right. Again, thanks, guy.
I have watched several of your videos now; you're done a great job in providing explanation of the steps, what they are for, and how to do it. Quite an accomplishment, very informative, superlative quality. Thank you so much!
Sir, thank you SO much. Ive sharpened plenty pocket knives etc, using the old Lansky kits. Until now, I would never even attempt to hone my own straight razor. This single video/information has removed my doubts about being able to do it properly, with practice. You have my gratitude - Namaste.
Excellent tutorial Geo, was seeking advice on how to sharpen an antique straight razor, but I've also adopted the same method to sharpen my wood chisels and plane blades. Im please to say my tools have never been so sharp. Many thanks..
Thanks for the video! I learned how to shave with a straight and a DE with your videos. Now it's nice to get a straightforward and thorough explanation for sharpening and honing from you. I've got no excuse not to sharpen my own razors now.
I honestly thought it would be way more complicated to sharpen a strait razor but that's more simple then how I sharpen my folding knife. Very interesting an thankyou for this video.
Having declared my dissatisfaction with this sharpener last night ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxDcr-y2Pf6xdnrFHrSP7dl9kpKaCozcSQ I thought about the problem some more. It occurred to me that I might be undoing each attempt at achieving a sharp edge by the repeated attempts. So, I tried to clean up the unsatisfactory result by honing with only positions 3 and 4.Miracle!! A really nicely sharpened chef's knife, more than enough to handle my needs. Admittedly, it did not reach professionally sharpened razor-fineness, but it is now significantly sharper than it was. A bout of breaking down carrots convinced me. So, major apologies to the manufacturer, Amazon, and all happy and potential owners! Follow the directions: don't buy it if you have ceramic blades; and don't overwork your knife blade.
Thanks Geo am still learning and like the previous comment have an obsession with precise sharpening having worked a lot with tools for cabinet making - chisels, plane blades straight rotary planer blades etc Unlike my father who preferred oil stones I am a fully hooked water stone user.
And ty geo like I said I used all kinds of razors got frustrated and never really knew how to shave till I googled how to get a close shave you popped up and I've watched your vids ever since I've been using a straight razor for 2yrs my face hasn't been rashed out since gratis to you for taking the time to do all this for guys like me
Helpful video. Today I lost completely my shaving edge because I was polishing some rust from my first straight razor using automotive white polishing paste (excelent result) that formed after only a few weeks of use. I went from a non shaving razor to a hanging arm hair positive doing the following: 1. completely ignored the 4k stone. 2. started with a 8k stone from a brazilian brand "Carborundum". I did swipe the wet stone like if I was wiping away its surface water (like Geofatguy just did on this video). Watching the water creating waves and being wiped away is oddly satisfying btw. I did many laps, lets say something around 50 laps. Not too much pressure, just enough to wipe the water, remember this parameter as a good parameter to calibrate your strength. At this point I was so happy when I shaved a patch of hair completely clean from my arm easily. Not pulling arm hairs yet. More 20 laps and started pulling some arm hairs in mid air. So I dried the blade, did not strop it in leather, but canvas + puma paste extra fine instead. After 50 laps the edge was mirror-like, pulling almost every hair from my arm when the blade passed in the air over them! Washed the blade, dried, spread some Singer machine mineral oil and the razor is as good as new. I hope my experience helps a little bit.
An alternative is to paste up your strop with a polishing/sharpening compound. This IMHO is a much better "at home" option as its much easier, your razor is at peak sharpness every shave and it doesn't eat up as much of your razor as regular honing would - extending its life.
I just purchased a beautiful Solomon by "Naked Armor Straight Edge Razor Kit" Though they say it was shave ready I should have done what I do to all my carpentry blades: chisels, Planers etc... is sharpen each one to a razor sharp edge! Many people think because its new its ready for use and the truth is it isn't! they are prep'd to be professionally honed before use! I believe this is also true of Naked Armor Straight Edge Razors... They are sharp but it pulled on some of my facial hairs. Which is an indication that is needs honing, sharpening, Stropping... etc... :)
I've been trying to sharpen a straight razor that got dinged but I can't seem to get it sharp enough to cut even the hairs of my arm. I think I'm missing a technique or two, so I'm on a search to learn more after sharpening the thing again. Thank you for the learning material!
Thanks so much for this video. I bought a set of stones since I just recently started using a straight razor to shave my face and head. The stones come with a sharpening tutorial. Watched the video and followed instructions and my razor was dull as a spoon. I was very frustrated. Just found your video and followed along and boom! Nice sharp smooth edge. Thank you!
I've noticed no one does what the flattening stone instructions say. Draw a grid on the target stone with a pencil, you know it's all even and flat when all pencil markings are gone
Great video. I just started using a straight razor this year and was pretty rough with the strop. I followed the instructions in this video and my razor is better than when I purchased it.
Geo I'm over here in the UK brother your advice has always come good for me. Do you know what grit level red dovo paste is classed at ? Thanks & be lucky pal.
Just got my first straight razor recently along with a strop and a 3,000/6,000 whetstone. Blade isn't sharp enough, either because I'm a dingus or I don't have a high enough grit to finish the sharpening process, so I'm going to be getting an 8,000 grit stone. :)
wow...I never knew there was a flattening stone. I'm super happy about that. just bought my first straight razor, strop, etc. haven't used it yet or sharpened it, but I'm excited to try it for the first time. damn glad your on UA-cam!!! going to tell all my buddies to watch these, because now they all want to buy one.
Thank you very much for your time and knowledge. I have a couple of questions for you. Won't the razor get scratched if you rub it flat against the stone? The other is , how do you know for real if a razor is shave ready? Thanks in advance.
check for an apex. Shine flashlight on the edge. If light reflects, that’s a dull spot. An apexed edge(fully formed sharp peak) does not reflect light.
1 bigg tip from a wood worker we sharpen many of our tools almost evry few days the wetstones sloud stay in the bucket of cold water always just keep them in there & refresh he water evry week. this helps the stone suck up the water to the maximum possible. its better to sharpen it accros the longest part geo does this the other way around for this you do need some pratice & skills do this isnt learned in a few days you need years of practice bc this will destroy it quick if you dno what you doing.
@@eyesofthecervino3366 @Eyes of the Cervino sharpen it exacly the opposite way he does it simply the longest way in a bit of a angel so don't move it straight like he does it's better to learn how to sharpen it like woodworkers do not using the the thin part back & forth do it accross the long part you need to learn this do you would need a instructiom video the way geo does it does get sharp buy the way I'm telling you would sharpen it how a pro more. You have to angle it right aswell geo just moves it back & forth i guis hes just giving basic advice the way he does it... better find some real knife or tool sharpening video's
Hello Geo, Thanks for the great video. I was under the impression that stropping along would keep the blade sharp. I've own (2) expensive razors (Thiers issard) and was told they are shave ready. Well, being a novice I asked questions concerning the angle of the blade when shaving (30 Deg.) and that I should not experience any pulling and/or burns. Well, after my first shave I think I ended up pulling most of my facial hair with the blade and burning the skin. I purchased a 3" wide leather strop thinking this may solve the problem. The blade still pulled. So after further research, I came across your video and listened to your advice on when the blade needs sharpening. After watching your excellent discourse on the proper method and whetstone grit rating, I went ahead and ordered the recommended whetstone. I'm looking forward to a smooth and comfortable shaving experience. I do have one question: is the spine also resting on the stone as honing takes place?Thank you for the video and restoring my hope.
hi geo, how many grits waterstone would you suggest for a brand new straight razor? i'm wanting to learn how to use a straight razor and just bought myself one from the imperial razors brand.
i know its been five years but for anyone passing by, everything I've read and from my experience, an 8000 grit stone will be fine, and if you feel like upgrading, a 10000-12000 grit stone for use after the 8000 during honing will make the edge slightly (but noticably) better
Great video! I just caught this video and have a question. I notice that you lay the straight razor flat while sharpening does the spine gives you the correct angle to sharpen the razor and would you hold it the same way while you strop it too? Thank you and have a great day!
Is the 4000/8000 stone recommended for German steel knives with the same technique and passes? I use one those inexpensive electric sharpeners for my knife. It's not dull, but it's definitely not sharp enough where I would like for it to be, like, sharp enough to cut through an onion with one solid pass rather than rocking back and forth.
Hi Geo! Thank you for such an informative video. I recently purchased my first straight razor. I thought it was shave-ready the way they came, but unfortunately it was not. What kind of honinh do you recommend for a brand new razor? Thanks in advance!
Do you have a video on the correct way to STROP? I really enjoyed your detailed simple instructions! easy to do and remember... Thank you very much! I already own 2 types of strops: 1.) like yours 2.) glued to a 3 1/2"x 14" paddle soft leather one side and fabric on the other... I know you don't just start stropping without loading the strop with at least the Green compound which I believe is the finishing compound! I'd like info about actually how to Strop would be helpful! again thank you so much for your time!
In this video you only used the 8000 grit. I have a Thiers Issard that I bought from The Art of Shaving. It is no longer giving a sharp cut. Should I only use the 8000 grit and a strop for maintenance?
Hi Geo. Although I've not made a comment for a while I still really enjoy watching your videos and thought I'd let you know that I still shave every day with my chrome Futur bought from Shave Nation in, I think, early 2011. Keep up the great work, bro! David.
Greetings David! It's very nice to hear from you! I hope you (and your nephew) are doing well. I wish you the best in 2015! I'm glad the Futur is still getting the job done for you.
Hey buddy, great video! I learned a lot thank you. I have a question. I’m new and just now getting into straight razor shaving. I bought myself a beautiful new DOVO straight razor. I know I’m not gonna need it for at least a few weeks, but whats a good quality grit stone you’d recommend for a new straight razor after a few months of use? Thanks :)
Hey @geofatboy, new to maintaining straight razors. I got the stone set from your site and they’re beautiful. But I’m having trouble getting my razor to that good shaving point. It’s leaving a smooth shave but there’s quite a bit pulling during the process. I followed the video but I feel like I’m missing something. Any additional tips to help a brother out?
Tried this with my ancient fisco razor, and i found using the spine as an angle guide was far too shallow. I'm able to get a much smoother shave from holding the spine off the stone about 1/4 inch... and I've got a naked arm to prove it!
Been trying to sharpen my Razor and I just seem to get no where using my 8k grit or 12k grit. I feel like I'm doing it wrong. Could some one give a point by point break down of the moving technique
after 2 months of use i tried to hone my first straight razor following the video. it had a better edge before i tried to hone it. now it has no edge at all. Nortone stones were flat, worked from 1000 grit to 4000 to 8000 then stropped before my next shave. Any thouhts????
Geofat, great video. I am learning whats needed for my first straight razor (looking into buying a Kamisori first). I want to ask you if you have a video here in UA-cam about honing a straight razor/kamisori for the first time. To my understanding, straight razors are not factory honed. Honing services are a bit expensive and I think this can be done at home (IMO). I have seen a lot of new Kamisori for sale in websites (NOS KAMISORI) that are not honed and others (used kamisories) shave ready on eBay but are old or I dont like the style so I prefer a new. I really want to learn how to do that first honing myself or be pointed in the right direction for this. Thank you
My 12000 grit and flattening stones are arriving in a couple of hours, and my 4000/8000 stone will be here Tuesday. My tap water isn't the best, though. Should I just use distilled water when working with the stones?
Hey Geo I just got a straight razor in the mail and its sharp but it doesnt even cut the hairs off my arm. I have a 3000 8000 whetstone. Should I try to strop it before moving to the whetstone? And if so should I start at the 3000 and then go to the 8000? Love your videos
Love your videos! Question? Do you push the spine of the razor against the stone, or do you keep it clear of the stone? I find that when I hone my razor laying flat on the stone I remove quite a lot of material of the spine. Best regards Anders Denmark.
Great video Geo very helpful as I have a couple of unsharpened razors, Oh!! and while I'm here what's your thoughts on Damascus razors are they a good clean shave or more decorative??
Damascus, layered steel razors are very sweet looking. Functional as well. You sure can get a smooth shave from one. Quality Damascus is usually pretty pricey.
***** Thanks for the feed back, you know yourself that qualities got a price, I've already learnt my lesson in that department by buying a cheap nasty straight and that was seriously KAK PANTS I would of been as well to shave with a shred of juice can (soda) :O. Any plans of a demo on the Damascus side of things in the future??
Nice video, brother. I have a question. I hone razors on the side and I often used the flattening stone as prescribed. On one honing job I determined the razor was warped when in fact it was my stone. Then, after further inspection, I realized my flattening stone was out of true. Although I now flatten my stones on a piece of 220 grit wet/dry I glued to a piece of glass I am left to wonder your method to bringing back the flattening stone to trueness. With respect, Guy Solis Gentlemen's Edge, Denver
Another nice video of yours Geo! A question though:can i use a crox applied on leather pasted strop instead of a 12k grit stone as I don't have one? Is it a good substitute for it and what do you think of this method, that is going right after the 8k stone to pasted strop(15rounds), then to clean linen(~25 rounds) and then to 50 give and take rounds on leather? Thanks Geo greetings from Greece!!
Hi Geo and thanks for all the great vids! Is the 4000/8000 stone good enough to use on it's own to get a good sharpness? I wouldn't be able to afford all the stones at once and just bought a Dovo Bergischer Lowe which has come factory sharpened. I've yet to take my maiden voyage into straight shaving with it but after some research it seems they generally need honing before use? If stropping alone isn't enough then would the Norton 4000/8000 do the trick? Also, do you have to use the flattening stone after every time you've honed? Cheers!
Jeff Read yes it will 8,000 grit stone will do the trick 12,000 is just to polish not hone I can make it work with a 8,000 and 10,000 stones I bought from ebay 12 dollars each free shipping really good quality
Hey geo, As a novice to honing techniques, I wanted to thank you for taking the time and effort to create this video. Everything is explained very clearly and it made it much easier to understand this process :) I did have a few questions too and would love your feedback whenever its convenient for you 1. Are there any tips, videos, or websites you could recommend for sharpening something like a pocket knife, or basically any blade where the edge differs from a straight razor? 2. Is there a way to determine whether a water stone should be flattened outside of the more obvious visual signs? My water stone seems quite flat already because its fresh out of the box. 3. I've watched a handful of honing videos where the motion of drawing the straight razor across can vary. Most of the videos I've seen show the same technique you demonstrated with going across and pivoting on the spine, so the edge is always facing the center. What I was hoping you could weigh in on though was a different method I've seen where it's a forward and back motion while gradually reaching the opposite end of the stone before the spine rotation happens. Is this just another way to do it, or do you know if there's another reason I'm not seeing? Thank you again so much and sorry for getting a bit wordy
Hi Geo. great video. I have a question; I'm completely new to honing and I have a Dovo Ebenholz silver steel, full hollow, it has a 24k gold plated spine. I'm really concerned that honing this way may damage the spine and or the face of the blade. Any suggestions on how to get around this? Thanks.
Hi Geo! Question: my razor Il was honed a while ago, but still performs well. Should I only go with a 12,000 grit or should I do a 8,000 and then a 12,000?
I'm thinking of getting my first straight razor. I shave once or twice a week. I'm wondering how often would I need to send it to be honed? One more question, is it difficult to learn how to hone your own straight razor?
Geofatboy what condition do straight razors come in from ordering a new one? Are they required to be honed with different stones and if so what stones would you recommend purchasing?
I have the 4000/8000 grit stone, 12000 stoner, and a 20000 stone. The 20000 stone is for another purpose. Do you think I need to go to the 20k stone with my straight razor? Also, you strop after each honing stone. Is that correct?
Can you expect having sharpened a straight razor that it will be as sharp as a shavette? If tape is applied to the spline during sharpening is the tape to remain on during stropping?
I've always been partial to the Arkansas Whet stones will that flattening stone work on that as well or do you just not bother because it's much narrower? Thanks great videos!
Hey, geo! I've been using a DE razor for about 4 years now and a friend of mine is sending me a straight that he honed etc.. my question is when I need to refresh my razor can I just use an 8k stone to hone it then strop and be shave ready again? Thank you for all your videos man!
I just recently purchased a custom straight razor off of someone that came into the barbershop I was working at, it's in dire need of sharpening and has a slight nik or tiny chip in the blade so I'm thinking maybe a full restore is needed,where would I send it to get it done? And about how much would it cost?
The spine makes contact with the stone while passing the straight razor on each trip? won't that wear down the spine, and eventually change the overall angle of the sharpened surface?
Yes, absolutely. And working on lower grit stone you'll scratch and ruin your spine. Either you put masking tape on it or you have to keep it hoovering over the stone (hard to do while keeping the exact angle though).
Came to learn how to sharpen my razor, and ended up learning ten other things. Thanks !
I'm glad it was educational for you! Thanks!
I have 3 of my late Dad’s straight razors. He was a barber and sharpened them himself. They are at least 80 years old and rusty, yet STILL sharp enough to shave with. I thought maybe I’d try to sharpen them to get rid of the rust and corrosion, but no, I’m pretty uncoordinated and would probably ruin them! RIP, dad❤️
Aww I havent even finished the video yet but this guy seems like such a sweetheart. You can tell really quickly that he's passionate about shaving
Thank you for making these videos. I'm a barber but in my shop I am in charge of sharpening shears and blades. These videos are so helpful!!! Thank you!!
Sincerely,
A lady barber from Detroit
i recently came into possession of a couple antique straight razors and this video helped me get them shave ready. my sleek smooth legs thank you
Can i buy one? Been looking online for ages but always prefer second hand.
I have tried many ways to keeep my razors sharp over the years. Your methods are the easiest and best I have ever used. Thanks.
Thanks, Geo. It's great to see that, at every step of the way after beginning to learn straight razor technique and maintenance, you are there, giving every necessary piece of information and demonstration for doing things right. Again, thanks, guy.
I have watched several of your videos now; you're done a great job in providing explanation of the steps, what they are for, and how to do it. Quite an accomplishment, very informative, superlative quality. Thank you so much!
Thanks David, Greatly appreciated.
Thank you for making such an informative and easy-to-understand video. You explained things very well.
Sir, thank you SO much. Ive sharpened plenty pocket knives etc, using the old Lansky kits. Until now, I would never even attempt to hone my own straight razor. This single video/information has removed my doubts about being able to do it properly, with practice. You have my gratitude - Namaste.
Great-Thanks for the props.Let us know how it works out for you. Namaste!
Excellent tutorial Geo, was seeking advice on how to sharpen an antique straight razor, but I've also adopted the same method to sharpen my wood chisels and plane blades. Im please to say my tools have never been so sharp. Many thanks..
Thanks for the video! I learned how to shave with a straight and a DE with your videos. Now it's nice to get a straightforward and thorough explanation for sharpening and honing from you. I've got no excuse not to sharpen my own razors now.
Thanks!
If you need stones, click here:
www.shavenation.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=328_22
I honestly thought it would be way more complicated to sharpen a strait razor but that's more simple then how I sharpen my folding knife. Very interesting an thankyou for this video.
Having declared my dissatisfaction with this sharpener last night ua-cam.com/users/postUgkxDcr-y2Pf6xdnrFHrSP7dl9kpKaCozcSQ I thought about the problem some more. It occurred to me that I might be undoing each attempt at achieving a sharp edge by the repeated attempts. So, I tried to clean up the unsatisfactory result by honing with only positions 3 and 4.Miracle!! A really nicely sharpened chef's knife, more than enough to handle my needs. Admittedly, it did not reach professionally sharpened razor-fineness, but it is now significantly sharper than it was. A bout of breaking down carrots convinced me. So, major apologies to the manufacturer, Amazon, and all happy and potential owners! Follow the directions: don't buy it if you have ceramic blades; and don't overwork your knife blade.
Seriously. Straight razor shaving requires high maintenance. I learned a lot . Thank you for your help.
Thanks Geo am still learning and like the previous comment have an obsession with precise sharpening having worked a lot with tools for cabinet making - chisels, plane blades straight rotary planer blades etc Unlike my father who preferred oil stones I am a fully hooked water stone user.
And ty geo like I said I used all kinds of razors got frustrated and never really knew how to shave till I googled how to get a close shave you popped up and I've watched your vids ever since I've been using a straight razor for 2yrs my face hasn't been rashed out since gratis to you for taking the time to do all this for guys like me
Thanks Johnny!
Single blade contacting the skin=Less Irritation!
More Blades=More Irritation...
Helpful video. Today I lost completely my shaving edge because I was polishing some rust from my first straight razor using automotive white polishing paste (excelent result) that formed after only a few weeks of use. I went from a non shaving razor to a hanging arm hair positive doing the following: 1. completely ignored the 4k stone. 2. started with a 8k stone from a brazilian brand "Carborundum". I did swipe the wet stone like if I was wiping away its surface water (like Geofatguy just did on this video). Watching the water creating waves and being wiped away is oddly satisfying btw. I did many laps, lets say something around 50 laps. Not too much pressure, just enough to wipe the water, remember this parameter as a good parameter to calibrate your strength. At this point I was so happy when I shaved a patch of hair completely clean from my arm easily. Not pulling arm hairs yet. More 20 laps and started pulling some arm hairs in mid air. So I dried the blade, did not strop it in leather, but canvas + puma paste extra fine instead. After 50 laps the edge was mirror-like, pulling almost every hair from my arm when the blade passed in the air over them! Washed the blade, dried, spread some Singer machine mineral oil and the razor is as good as new. I hope my experience helps a little bit.
Sounds like a very exciting experience! Cheers n keep that passion going!
PhatBoy...Great short vid but I just wanted to add that newly aquired stones should always be lapped prior to honing. 👌🏻💯
It’s GeoFatBoy after the vintage razor
just started shaving with a straight razor. your vids, are really informative
I sharpened my straight razor on a 2 sided Norton oil stone, then finished with a hanging strop. I got hair shaving results. Satisfying enough for me.
Sounds good
An alternative is to paste up your strop with a polishing/sharpening compound. This IMHO is a much better "at home" option as its much easier, your razor is at peak sharpness every shave and it doesn't eat up as much of your razor as regular honing would - extending its life.
I just purchased a beautiful Solomon by "Naked Armor Straight Edge Razor Kit" Though they say it was shave ready I should have done what I do to all my carpentry blades: chisels, Planers etc... is sharpen each one to a razor sharp edge! Many people think because its new its ready for use and the truth is it isn't! they are prep'd to be professionally honed before use! I believe this is also true of Naked Armor Straight Edge Razors... They are sharp but it pulled on some of my facial hairs. Which is an indication that is needs honing, sharpening, Stropping... etc... :)
I've been trying to sharpen a straight razor that got dinged but I can't seem to get it sharp enough to cut even the hairs of my arm. I think I'm missing a technique or two, so I'm on a search to learn more after sharpening the thing again.
Thank you for the learning material!
Thanks so much for this video. I bought a set of stones since I just recently started using a straight razor to shave my face and head. The stones come with a sharpening tutorial. Watched the video and followed instructions and my razor was dull as a spoon. I was very frustrated. Just found your video and followed along and boom! Nice sharp smooth edge. Thank you!
Boom! That's Awesome! I'm glad you got it sorted out and sharpened up!
Thanks for the tips bud, got my vintage straight razor cutting hair now haha
Thank you very much! About to hone my razor for the first time
My uncle was a barber in Mexico and he gave me a Boker and s strop. I will be checking you site out. Tyler Tx
+gilbert ramirez
Let me know if you need any help.
That razor is probably a fucking light saber by now...
I've noticed no one does what the flattening stone instructions say. Draw a grid on the target stone with a pencil, you know it's all even and flat when all pencil markings are gone
Almost no one... You mean like this: ua-cam.com/video/blutw9FI-Vc/v-deo.html
To maintain your own razor, do you only need to get the 12k stone? Or should I also buy a 4k/8k as well?
For touch-ups the 12 K is great! bit.ly/Naniwa12KstoneSN
haven't honed mine in about 3 years. just started getting to the point where it hurts to shave. not bad for a 100 dollar straight razor.
I bought the 12000 grain one from the link. Hope it serves me well. Your video makes me a lot more comfortable doing it than I was before.
Great video. I just started using a straight razor this year and was pretty rough with the strop. I followed the instructions in this video and my razor is better than when I purchased it.
BrentAB67
Tahnsk Brent!
Thank you for the video, I just ordered my 3 pc Norton water stone set. Now I won't have to send my razor out to be honed and sharpened.
im a chef. i got a bunch of good japanese stones already. surely i can just use the same stones right?
Absolutely, as long as they're flat!
@@geofatboy epic. Thx for the vid and the quick reply
Geo I'm over here in the UK brother your advice has always come good for me. Do you know what grit level red dovo paste is classed at ? Thanks & be lucky pal.
Just got my first straight razor recently along with a strop and a 3,000/6,000 whetstone. Blade isn't sharp enough, either because I'm a dingus or I don't have a high enough grit to finish the sharpening process, so I'm going to be getting an 8,000 grit stone. :)
how can one man and his videos be so helpful! great videos geo!
wow...I never knew there was a flattening stone. I'm super happy about that. just bought my first straight razor, strop, etc. haven't used it yet or sharpened it, but I'm excited to try it for the first time. damn glad your on UA-cam!!! going to tell all my buddies to watch these, because now they all want to buy one.
+kross Krosstika
Here's another one for you: ua-cam.com/video/blutw9FI-Vc/v-deo.html
Thank you very much for your time and knowledge. I have a couple of questions for you. Won't the razor get scratched if you rub it flat against the stone? The other is , how do you know for real if a razor is shave ready? Thanks in advance.
check for an apex. Shine flashlight on the edge. If light reflects, that’s a dull spot. An apexed edge(fully formed sharp peak) does not reflect light.
Awesome bro, I learned everything I need to know save one thing, why the number 8.
Thank you for a great tutorial😊
Did I say it was my favorite?
Can't believe nobody has invented a machine specifically made for honing straight razors.
This method of honing is also what's used for knives, too. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
1 bigg tip from a wood worker we sharpen many of our tools almost evry few days the wetstones sloud stay in the bucket of cold water always just keep them in there & refresh he water evry week. this helps the stone suck up the water to the maximum possible. its better to sharpen it accros the longest part geo does this the other way around for this you do need some pratice & skills do this isnt learned in a few days you need years of practice bc this will destroy it quick if you dno what you doing.
What do you mean by sharpening across the longest part?
@@eyesofthecervino3366 @Eyes of the Cervino sharpen it exacly the opposite way he does it simply the longest way in a bit of a angel so don't move it straight like he does it's better to learn how to sharpen it like woodworkers do not using the the thin part back & forth do it accross the long part you need to learn this do you would need a instructiom video the way geo does it does get sharp buy the way I'm telling you would sharpen it how a pro more. You have to angle it right aswell geo just moves it back & forth i guis hes just giving basic advice the way he does it... better find some real knife or tool sharpening video's
Hello Geo, Thanks for the great video. I was under the impression that stropping along would keep the blade sharp. I've own (2) expensive razors (Thiers issard) and was told they are shave ready. Well, being a novice I asked questions concerning the angle of the blade when shaving (30 Deg.) and that I should not experience any pulling and/or burns. Well, after my first shave I think I ended up pulling most of my facial hair with the blade and burning the skin. I purchased a 3" wide leather strop thinking this may solve the problem. The blade still pulled. So after further research, I came across your video and listened to your advice on when the blade needs sharpening. After watching your excellent discourse on the proper method and whetstone grit rating, I went ahead and ordered the recommended whetstone. I'm looking forward to a smooth and comfortable shaving experience. I do have one question: is the spine also resting on the stone as honing takes place?Thank you for the video and restoring my hope.
oboy inflrida - Yes it is, you can put a strip of masking tape on the spine if it is polished or gold plated.
hi geo, how many grits waterstone would you suggest for a brand new straight razor? i'm wanting to learn how to use a straight razor and just bought myself one from the imperial razors brand.
i know its been five years but for anyone passing by, everything I've read and from my experience, an 8000 grit stone will be fine, and if you feel like upgrading, a 10000-12000 grit stone for use after the 8000 during honing will make the edge slightly (but noticably) better
@@maxdarner5672 thanks man. forgot about this comment lol but i appreciate it
Great video! I just caught this video and have a question. I notice that you lay the straight razor flat while sharpening does the spine gives you the correct angle to sharpen the razor and would you hold it the same way while you strop it too? Thank you and have a great day!
Is the 4000/8000 stone recommended for German steel knives with the same technique and passes? I use one those inexpensive electric sharpeners for my knife. It's not dull, but it's definitely not sharp enough where I would like for it to be, like, sharp enough to cut through an onion with one solid pass rather than rocking back and forth.
Hi Geo!
Thank you for such an informative video. I recently purchased my first straight razor. I thought it was shave-ready the way they came, but unfortunately it was not.
What kind of honinh do you recommend for a brand new razor?
Thanks in advance!
thankyou geof brilliant mate, paul in england. be safe my friend.
Great video! Your instructions were incredibly easy to follow
Do you have a video on the correct way to STROP? I really enjoyed your detailed simple instructions! easy to do and remember... Thank you very much! I already own 2 types of strops: 1.) like yours 2.) glued to a 3 1/2"x 14" paddle soft leather one side and fabric on the other... I know you don't just start stropping without loading the strop with at least the Green compound which I believe is the finishing compound! I'd like info about actually how to Strop would be helpful! again thank you so much for your time!
In this video you only used the 8000 grit. I have a Thiers Issard that I bought from The Art of Shaving. It is no longer giving a sharp cut. Should I only use the 8000 grit and a strop for maintenance?
Hi Geo. Although I've not made a comment for a while I still really enjoy watching your videos and thought I'd let you know that I still shave every day with my chrome Futur bought from Shave Nation in, I think, early 2011.
Keep up the great work, bro!
David.
Greetings David!
It's very nice to hear from you! I hope you (and your nephew) are doing well.
I wish you the best in 2015!
I'm glad the Futur is still getting the job done for you.
I just bought a brand new straight edge razor and my question is should I use a 12k stone or an 8k stone to hone it to become shave ready?
Hey buddy, great video! I learned a lot thank you. I have a question. I’m new and just now getting into straight razor shaving. I bought myself a beautiful new DOVO straight razor. I know I’m not gonna need it for at least a few weeks, but whats a good quality grit stone you’d recommend for a new straight razor after a few months of use? Thanks :)
Thanks, Geo. Very clear and helpful presentation.
Hey @geofatboy, new to maintaining straight razors. I got the stone set from your site and they’re beautiful. But I’m having trouble getting my razor to that good shaving point. It’s leaving a smooth shave but there’s quite a bit pulling during the process. I followed the video but I feel like I’m missing something. Any additional tips to help a brother out?
What an excellent video. Thanks man
Tried this with my ancient fisco razor, and i found using the spine as an angle guide was far too shallow. I'm able to get a much smoother shave from holding the spine off the stone about 1/4 inch... and I've got a naked arm to prove it!
Just getting started. Will a 1000 grid do the trick or do you require 4000/8000?
Been trying to sharpen my Razor and I just seem to get no where using my 8k grit or 12k grit. I feel like I'm doing it wrong. Could some one give a point by point break down of the moving technique
after 2 months of use i tried to hone my first straight razor following the video. it had a better edge before i tried to hone it. now it has no edge at all. Nortone stones were flat, worked from 1000 grit to 4000 to 8000 then stropped before my next shave. Any thouhts????
John Kleinschmidt wrong directing. You go from highest grit to lowest. So start with 8000 end with 1000
dont listen to this, this is incorrect, you go low to high. i would assume your technique is not correct.
Kevan Ash not sure if this is a joke but you must be an idiot to believe you are correct
John Kleinschmidt you need to set the bevel before anything. The geometry of the razor needs to be corrected before you can start honing.
Geofat, great video. I am learning whats needed for my first straight razor (looking into buying a Kamisori first).
I want to ask you if you have a video here in UA-cam about honing a straight razor/kamisori for the first time.
To my understanding, straight razors are not factory honed. Honing services are a bit expensive and I think this can be done at home (IMO). I have seen a lot of new Kamisori for sale in websites (NOS KAMISORI) that are not honed and others (used kamisories) shave ready on eBay but are old or I dont like the style so I prefer a new. I really want to learn how to do that first honing myself or be pointed in the right direction for this.
Thank you
My 12000 grit and flattening stones are arriving in a couple of hours, and my 4000/8000 stone will be here Tuesday. My tap water isn't the best, though. Should I just use distilled water when working with the stones?
Hey Geo I just got a straight razor in the mail and its sharp but it doesnt even cut the hairs off my arm. I have a 3000 8000 whetstone. Should I try to strop it before moving to the whetstone? And if so should I start at the 3000 and then go to the 8000? Love your videos
Stone first, then strop...Yes, Thanks!
Love your videos! Question? Do you push the spine of the razor against the stone, or do you keep it clear of the stone? I find that when I hone my razor laying flat on the stone I remove quite a lot of material of the spine. Best regards Anders Denmark.
Just light finger pressure evenly distributed on the blade to hold it flat
Great video Geo very helpful as I have a couple of unsharpened razors, Oh!! and while I'm here what's your thoughts on Damascus razors are they a good clean shave or more decorative??
Damascus, layered steel razors are very sweet looking. Functional as well. You sure can get a smooth shave from one. Quality Damascus is usually pretty pricey.
***** Thanks for the feed back, you know yourself that qualities got a price, I've already learnt my lesson in that department by buying a cheap nasty straight and that was seriously KAK PANTS I would of been as well to shave with a shred of juice can (soda) :O. Any plans of a demo on the Damascus side of things in the future??
I usually only go up to 10k grit awesome video
Nice video, brother. I have a question. I hone razors on the side and I often used the flattening stone as prescribed. On one honing job I determined the razor was warped when in fact it was my stone. Then, after further inspection, I realized my flattening stone was out of true.
Although I now flatten my stones on a piece of 220 grit wet/dry I glued to a piece of glass I am left to wonder your method to bringing back the flattening stone to trueness.
With respect,
Guy Solis
Gentlemen's Edge, Denver
Use a diamond stone, I use a atoma 400 diamond stone. Always perfect.
Another nice video of yours Geo! A question though:can i use a crox applied on leather pasted strop instead of a 12k grit stone as I don't have one? Is it a good substitute for it and what do you think of this method, that is going right after the 8k stone to pasted strop(15rounds), then to clean linen(~25 rounds) and then to 50 give and take rounds on leather? Thanks Geo greetings from Greece!!
You are are awesome, much help, thank you dude!!!
I have a small chip I can only see with a magnifying glass, I suspect it's from using ceramic rods to sharpen the razor rather than stones
Do you apply a lot of pressure when you sharpen on the stone, or let the blade rest with only minimal pressure enough to keep it flat on the stone?
Minimal pressure
@@geofatboy Thanks!
Excellent tutorial. 👍
Hi Geo and thanks for all the great vids!
Is the 4000/8000 stone good enough to use on it's own to get a good sharpness? I wouldn't be able to afford all the stones at once and just bought a Dovo Bergischer Lowe which has come factory sharpened. I've yet to take my maiden voyage into straight shaving with it but after some research it seems they generally need honing before use? If stropping alone isn't enough then would the Norton 4000/8000 do the trick?
Also, do you have to use the flattening stone after every time you've honed?
Cheers!
Jeff Read yes it will 8,000 grit stone will do the trick 12,000 is just to polish not hone I can make it work with a 8,000 and 10,000 stones I bought from ebay 12 dollars each free shipping really good quality
Jeff Read buy a leather strop or cut a leather belt in 2 glue it to make 5 inch with strop and aply some stroping paste really amazing results
Hey geo,
As a novice to honing techniques, I wanted to thank you for taking the time and effort to create this video. Everything is explained very clearly and it made it much easier to understand this process :)
I did have a few questions too and would love your feedback whenever its convenient for you
1. Are there any tips, videos, or websites you could recommend for sharpening something like a pocket knife, or basically any blade where the edge differs from a straight razor?
2. Is there a way to determine whether a water stone should be flattened outside of the more obvious visual signs? My water stone seems quite flat already because its fresh out of the box.
3. I've watched a handful of honing videos where the motion of drawing the straight razor across can vary. Most of the videos I've seen show the same technique you demonstrated with going across and pivoting on the spine, so the edge is always facing the center. What I was hoping you could weigh in on though was a different method I've seen where it's a forward and back motion while gradually reaching the opposite end of the stone before the spine rotation happens. Is this just another way to do it, or do you know if there's another reason I'm not seeing?
Thank you again so much and sorry for getting a bit wordy
Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
Glad it was helpful!
I was doing this the wrong way around, I'm an idiot XD Thanks for the video!
A good video Geo, useful information!
Hi Geo. great video. I have a question; I'm completely new to honing and I have a Dovo Ebenholz silver steel, full hollow, it has a 24k gold plated spine. I'm really concerned that honing this way may damage the spine and or the face of the blade. Any suggestions on how to get around this?
Thanks.
rutter8671 putt some tape over the gold plated metal and youll be fine. Grtz
Almighty Munt hardly, masking tape is no where near thick enough to effect the bevel.
Use kapton tape it's better than electrical tape
Can you hone the razor using the same technique as when you strop?
Hi Geo! Question: my razor Il was honed a while ago, but still performs well. Should I only go with a 12,000 grit or should I do a 8,000 and then a 12,000?
I only have a 1000/6000 grit stone. I also have the atrop though. Do you think that I could get by with just those materials?
I'm thinking of getting my first straight razor. I shave once or twice a week. I'm wondering how often would I need to send it to be honed? One more question, is it difficult to learn how to hone your own straight razor?
Geofatboy what condition do straight razors come in from ordering a new one? Are they required to be honed with different stones and if so what stones would you recommend purchasing?
I have the 4000/8000 grit stone, 12000 stoner, and a 20000 stone. The 20000 stone is for another purpose. Do you think I need to go to the 20k stone with my straight razor? Also, you strop after each honing stone. Is that correct?
Can you expect having sharpened a straight razor that it will be as sharp as a shavette? If tape is applied to the spline during sharpening is the tape to remain on during stropping?
Thank you Geo! I always enjoy your videos
Thanks for your support!
Awesome straightforward video.
+Theophilus Human
Thanks Theo!
I've always been partial to the Arkansas Whet stones will that flattening stone work on that as well or do you just not bother because it's much narrower? Thanks great videos!
I’m interested in getting the Naniwa 12,000 Grit Super Stone, does it need to be flattened before the first use when it’s brand new? Thanks
bit.ly/Naniwa12KstoneSN You can use it right out of the box, flatten after that.
Just found the video...says see video on how to strop.. looks in links provided...not there.
Thanks John-Here you go: ua-cam.com/video/LLaYdf99PIw/v-deo.html it's been added!
Fantastic video! Thank you so much
Thanks Markus! Stay Sharp!
Hey, geo! I've been using a DE razor for about 4 years now and a friend of mine is sending me a straight that he honed etc.. my question is when I need to refresh my razor can I just use an 8k stone to hone it then strop and be shave ready again? Thank you for all your videos man!
I just recently purchased a custom straight razor off of someone that came into the barbershop I was working at, it's in dire need of sharpening and has a slight nik or tiny chip in the blade so I'm thinking maybe a full restore is needed,where would I send it to get it done? And about how much would it cost?
The spine makes contact with the stone while passing the straight razor on each trip? won't that wear down the spine, and eventually change the overall angle of the sharpened surface?
Yes, absolutely. And working on lower grit stone you'll scratch and ruin your spine. Either you put masking tape on it or you have to keep it hoovering over the stone (hard to do while keeping the exact angle though).
You should start sending free razors to random people. I really enjoyed watching your videos they helped me a lot
Thank you sir! This is very helpful!