Sir. I am a 2nd generation barber from the infamous 8 mile road in Detroit Michigan. I would like to thank you for this video. This is a dying art. And people like you keep it alive. Thank you.
Being new to straight razors, I've seen numerous videos that demonstrate time consuming and expensive ways to accomplish what you've shown me here. Your video is simple, economic, and informative. I shall make the initial investment and learn how to maintain my straight razor with the confidence you've shown me. Thank you.
This is a very helpful video. I’ve just got into straight razor shaving and would like to hone my own razors but without getting too much into the art of honing - I just want to keep a great edge so I get a smooth close shave. Thanks for breaking this down to the fundamentals.
I been using a DE razor and sharpen my own knives for the last five years. I watch a lot of UA-cam and this is by far the best informative video I’ve seen in five years. You did the hands on first and the. Educated on the back end. I want to go to a straight razor. This is helped with confidence I can at least sharpen it right. Shaving....... maybe a lot of manual education. Thank you!
Thank you so much for that, I have spent un told hours on some razors and got absolutely nothing I'm sure some were sharper when I started. One a full wedge was has been laughing at me for over a year. So as I watched you i decided to check it on a peice of floated glass and found out it was curved from front to back. Following your advice I took the bow out and using no tape I passed it over my charnley forest a dozen passes and it was catching the hairs on my arm. I am sure I will be shaving with it tonight
Sir, I want to thank you for this video. I have a Thiers Issard "Spécial Coiffeur", 6/8 and Half Hollow, and your technique made it the perfect razor for my beard. And yes by the way, I also saved say $200 or more haha!
one thing for sure. polishing a sword is WAAAAAY different than honing a straight razor. having a lot more difficulty than I expected! even though they're both simple high carbon steel lol. getting AN edge. Sharpie ink all gone, hangs and grips my nail a lot, cuts paper on a whim, but can't seem to get it to pass the hair test! Like I said, your technique is great, considering all the guys who never even touch the end 3rds of their stones lol as easy as it LOOKS, and really is, it isn't. if you know what I mean. don't let anyone bug you about that. I still have lots of work to do.
I know how to sharpen cooking knives to a razors edge and was wondering if it's the same with a straight razor and I believe it's similar. Thanks for the Informative video.
Dr. Matt, I just bought my first straight razor this Black Friday. I checked the spine, doesn't need beveling, but it's not as sharp as I'd like it to be. I watched this video a little late though and already ordered an 8k Aluminum Oxide stone and a Naniwa Gouken 12k. The razor doesn't pull on my skin, but it also doesn't want to shave close so it might need to be honed... or it could just be " operator error " involved. 🤣Not sure about that yet. I definitely wanted to hone it anyway just for the sake of removing that problem from the list. Your videos, especially this one have given me an edge ( no pun intended ) on getting this razor honed when the stones get here and in the future when regular maintenance is required. I made the choice to switch to a straight razor mainly because I've been using the ol' school single razor disposable ( the double sided kind that tucks into the all metal safety razor ) for the last 3 years and I'm just getting tired of spending money on refills. I knew if I took this route, it'd pay for itself inside of 6 months.
You know what I watched this again today on the computer. On the larger monitor screen the edge you magnified is clear as day that the edge is so refined. Never ceases to amaze me how good the ILR is for the money. Keith Johnstone must have been very unlucky to have caught two bad stones or he's got some other reason to say what he did. At the end of the day the stone works. Best maintenance video Dr Matt, when it's time I always give it a quick watch as a reminder. Just as a motivator to do it.. lol
Dr. Matt I took your recommendation and go the IRL stone and I am extremely happy with the stone. Using your running water method I am getting some amazing edges. Again thanks!
Good day DrMatt. I made my entry in to straight razor shaving a couple years back, and after discovering this video, made my purchase of both of the stones recommended in this video. I rewatch it every time I'm going to refresh my razors. First I'll thank you for the info and instruction. Very valuable to me... I've had great success in maintaining both my razors without issues. I'm curious, how often do you think the stones need to be re-lapped over time with granite and sandpaper? Thank you ~Drew
Thank you Drew and I'm glad you can benefit from the content. My 8K stone since I use a slurry on it, I lap it every time I use it. The ILR, since I only use it under running water with no slurry, I honestly can't remember the last time I lapped it so you could finish dozens of razors on it. Then you could always get a straight edge and check them for when they start to dish and lap them then.
Shaved with my edge off the ILR today and it worked great. BBS shave with no irritation. What impressed me was how keen yet smooth the edge felt. It was almost like a coticle edge but keener.. I am impressed. Thanks for your help Dr. Matt!
great explanation Not took the jump to straight yet. looks like maintaining the edge is easier than learning to strop correctly. Off work for a few weeks after an op on my hand so going to be watching a lot more of your content. great work.
In all these years, you’re the only one who got it but the way it works is if you twirl across the room on the way to getting busy, your gal may actually like you by the time you arrive. 😉😆
Great video Dr Matt. I really like the demonstration of the different scratch patterns, and would love to see more of it. Maybe do a video where you do the same procedure and show black arkansas, spyderco UF and of course many more :D Keep up the good work.
I am just getting into the straight razor style of shaving. Thanks for your candor on stones. I bought the Kuromako 8000, & the ILR stone. The price of the ILR's have jumped since you made this vid. They now cost 65.00.
The regular 2X6 (not premium) is still $50 and with the DRMATT2X6 discount code, you save $5. www.imperialaroccia.com/store/2-x-6-ILR-STANDARD-Standard-12-15k-Hone-p129339007
I'm a woodworker, I have a Norton india combination for really hogging off metal. I own a set of Smiths Arkansas stones that takes me from soft, hard and black. I usually start with my Hard and move to the black for normal honing and strop for a good edge. Most of the tools I have found "in the wild" have had really neglected edges.
Dr Matt, I realize this is an old video, but I enjoyed it. I wondered what you use for magnification. Would you mind sharing what you are using now? Maybe everyone would enjoy a video.
Good god man.... you really really truely love the sound of your owen voice..... i really like the way you do want to be a master at your craft and want to share it with the world that my freind is very awsome.... so i geuss just keep on keeping on man....
Great vid Dr Matt...first one I have seen..Just starting out with straights and it really helped on the honing aspect. Although I have the Norton 4/8K and a Chinese 12K I was able to get a really good hone and a very nice shave. I ordered the ILR and fire hose strop and we will see some incremental improvements hopefully. I really like the edge shots juxtaposed at the end..very informative.. Your channel will hold a place of honor..and look forward to more. Again thanks..really good stuff
Thank you Randy. I've tried the Chinese stone before and didn't have much luck with it but I believe I had a bad one. They have a problem with consistency. Good luck with the ILR and let us know how it goes.
Hey DrMatt! thanks for the awesome videos! I wonder if your recommendations changed after 7 years of this video being published, will wait for the update!
Still a good choice. I don’t recall if I said I’m the video but I believe you should be proficient with synthetic stones first before going to natural stones. But the ILR is a great transitional stone for the reasons stated.
Great video. I’ve been using a shavette for about a year and have been apprehensive about moving to a real straight razor because of the cost and difficulty of maintaining them. After watching this I’m definitely want to try a straight razor.
Thanks again Dr Matt, I now know it's more affordable to being able to get started and to maintain a razor. I just hope I can put it to my wife as well as you have educated me on this. Very best regards Gordon. 🙏👍👌
when u killed the edge, and it worked going to 8k right away doesnt that imply that its setting the bevel? Do we even need a stone under 8k ever? ( in theory) NVM Watched ur Razor Bevel setting video, U really need to make a 1 hour or so video, 101 SR. Cus after watching most of ur videos, u make the most sense. Great videos man
Thanks Eli and sorry but I'm just seeing your comment. After the bevel has been set, yes, really only need the 8K and finisher. Watch my Geometry series on how I find and fix these problems.
Dr Matt....great video, and very instructional. But I would like to add another way to maintain a SR Edge. Using a barber's hone . That is all I use to maintain the edge. How effective is it? Ever since I use the barber"s hone (Franz Swaty) the last time I touched up my razors (with a stone) was well over a year ago, and they are every bit as sharp as they were when I first started using it. About the ELR.....its a great finishing stone, but if you use it in combination with a coticule (8000 grit) and an Escher (around 10000 grit) the ELR, the edge it puts out gives by far the most comfortable shave. Nothing beats it, not even a JNat....
I tried sanding my stones and never got good enough results. I spent around 15 EUR and trashed all after wearing down my stones considerably and still the were concave. The slurry never moved along the whole edge and it was hard to catch the edges. Then I purchased an Atoma 400 and it was a revelation in my bevel setting and honing. Planar hones and a slurry in no time with less stone wear than before.
@@drmatt357 So could I use a small block of 1000 grit Japanese NAGURA stone to use as a slurry stone on the 8000 K stone, or would it be absolutely necessary that I use the same grit? Sorry for the confusion on my part.
@@drmatt357 Well that certainly makes sense. I've sharpened knives before before but I've never used, much less ever having heard of a slurry stone. Managed to find and order a 8000 K Naniwa Nagura slurry stone for the Shapton Melon 8000 K stone and also the ILR stone albeit I opted for one of the larger ones and the accompanying expense! Would there be any advantage as a final step to run the blade several times across an oiled hard black Arkansas stone? Other than that.... great informative video!
Awesome tutorial, thank you so much for sharing. Just getting into str8 razors and your video was so helpful. All I have have is the Norton 8k 4K going to buy the the finishing stone you recommend.
I saw a video last night where the guy who is apparently very reputable as far as sharpening goes made an example of using just the norton 4000/8000 grit combo stone. I forget his name but I’m sure if you searched you’d find it pretty fast Then you can still shave while you acquire the finishing pieces
Dr Matt, what a great video! My stable of razors either have your PERFECT edge on them or the bevel isn't set and the 8k isn't effective. My wife got me another razor for Christmas and the bevel was close enough for me to play with. After shaving with your coticule edge for months now (daily shaves) I was shocked at two things: First, how easy this ILR is to use. I'm sure my 12 year old son could put a great edge on a blade with this stone. Second, how good the shave is, even compared to your perfect coticule edge. Different for sure, even surprisingly different but still very good. You talk in this video about how satisfying it is to put an edge on a razor that you use... Boy are you right! Thanks for the great information.
I hone my own razors I finish on a 12k naniwa but man that ilr stone is amazingly impressive I'm gonna get one and try it out I also restore razors if they ain't in to bad of shape
The 12k naniwa is a very nice finisher. The ILR is similar but still a natural edge finish and I think they feel a bit better. That's hard to explain but let us know how it goes when you get it. Thanks for the comment.
If you want to start on natural stones, yes it's a great and easy starter. I would suggest that you have a full synthetic progression and become proficient at it before going to natural stones tho. The synthetic finisher I always recommend is the Naniwa 12K Super Stone.
This is a potential can of worms but I’ll try. There are many who believe you should always use tape to preserve the beauty. Ideally you shouldn’t use tape because as you sharpen it over the years, the blade gets narrower… but the spine also gets thinner therefore preserving the geometry or bevel angle (it’s a function of the width of the blade and spine thickness. See my measuring bevel angle how and why video). If you tape the spine and sharpen, the blade gets narrower but the spine does not concurrently get thinner therefore creating a fatter and fatter bevel angle which degrades performance. Having said that, I will use tape on old wedges and heavy grind razors to ease the burden of sharpening old twisted, poorly ground blades.
Thank you sir - I am ordering these and will try them as my go-to from now on and see how it works long term - I get mixed results sending my straights out and would rather just learn to do it myself .
I'm following most of this video, and especially appreciate him pointing out the finishing stone, but there's one thing I'm missing: 6:30 - He talks about "slurree?" What is that?
Ward Payne slurree is those particles out of the stone you get using a different stone to make them more ,aggressive’. While you sharpen you don’t remove it. A stone under running water will act as a stone with higher grit. I hope you can follow my English.
Matt love the videos I am getting in to straight razors and sharping it. Would like to know more about Maintaining the ILR stone. And if it is better to pap it till shining smooth
No need to lap/burnish it shiny like a trans Ark. stone as it’s not nearly as hard and wouldn’t maintain that finish… not that it could get that shiny anyway. It would be overkill and really just a waste of time. Just make sure it’s lapped flat. I use my Atoma 400 plate but a piece of sandpaper of equivalent grit and a square of granite from Depot will work also.
Spend the extra money on a diamond flattening plate, I used the sand paper method a messed up all my fine grit naniwa stones, when the sand paper starts to wear down those pieces embed into the stone, luckily I only used one side with the sand paper method or I would have had to buy new stones.
Peter Harrison - glad you’re self sufficient with your razors Pete. I don’t use pasted or sprays on my strops. If I want to use it, I do it while honing as a last step. Watch my recent Koraat video. Cheers!😁
At what time frame (number of shaves or other form of measuring time) should one go to these stones for maintenance. Is it when I start to feel the edge being rough?
You're exactly right Kia. Everyone has different skin, whiskers, razors and technique so there's no real number. Just when it starts to tug or get uncomfortable and stropping won't bring it back.
hello matt ... can you tell me what are the three or four stones i need to do everything to take a really out of shape straight razor to fine shaving edge?
Sricharan C Well, you'd need a bevel setter so that would be the Chosera. You need a finish stone like the ILR (tons of options here). Then you need a stone or two between the 1K and finish. You could go just a 5K, 5&8, I go 2,5&8. For bare minimum, 1,5, finish. Those stones are on my CKTG web page in the description.
Hi Doc, just one more quick question please. If you've gone through your progression with tape on your spine, would you need to leave it on when you get to the ILR, or would you have to take it off? What happens to the 'stiction' if you have tape on? Cheers Doc!
ehh doc love your vids I just bought a Chinese natural polishing stone from woodcraft in Minneapolis it's about 12000 grit for 26 us talk about a steal cheers
Dr. Matt I have a question. I use a 4000, 8000, 12,000 wet stones. And a stone leveler to keep the stones flat. After honing on the 12000 grit the razor is sharp like a knife but not razor sharp. If I run the edge about a 1/4" above my skin on my arm. It will cut about 8% of the hair. I need to get to the next level. I don't use slurry stones. Do I need a higher grit stone or what type of slurry stone etc? Thanks for your channel.
I gather you meant 4000, 8000 12000? Try a piece of tape on the spine and go 30 on the 8K then the same on the 12K and let me know what happens. Are you stropping before you test with the tree top?
@@drmatt357 Yes sir, I did mean 4,8, an 12,000 stone. Yes, I did strop with it on the linen and the leather about 25/60. I'm not using any high dollar stones. I have thick whiskers. By the way I use olive oil as a preshave. It is the best oil I have found and it helps shaves off whiskers well. I would encourage you to try it one time if you never have.
watched a video keith made with this stone. when using a slurry do you notice the stone chipping the edge? and is this method something you would use to avoid the slurry stone. just x strokes, strop, and xstrokes again?
Hi dr.Matt! I’ve been watching your videos for a few weeks now and find them really informative! Anyway, I got my first straight razor for Christmas and after just watching your “sharpening your first new razor” video and then this one I’m just curious as to why you put the electrical tape on it to start with and then don’t bother putting it on with other razors? Again, thanks a lot for all your head these past few weeks
Fantastic! I ordered my first strop from your recommendation. Now I have a good idea where to start getting the proper stones and how to use them. That Japanese frameback was shave ready as advertised so hopefully I will be able to find out if the person used tape.
Well, you can use any finishing stone without using sprays or pastes. You use those when you want a hyper sharp edge. Some people don't like them because they are too sharp. This technique/combination of stones is a stand alone method but if you want even more, you certainly can go to a pasted strop or nano-cloth.
Hi Dr. Matt! Could you offer some updated advice about which stones are the best for their price? The ILRs are 3x the price they used to be and I'm seeking a good yet cheap stone to start with. I can't always borrow my dad's. I just ordered my first razors and I'm excited to get to use them soon. Many Thanks & Happy Holidays!
Sorry Ninqi as I'm just seeing this. The stone has only gone up $10. You probably saw the premium grade. I still just use this one: imperialaroccia.com/6standard.htm
Thanks for the great video. Some day I swear I'll get the microscope and go for the perfect edge but for now the 8k plus the natural stone work great! (Ps. I used a naniwa 8k and worked well. Think there's a difference and worth trying the one from the video?)
Feb 2024: I clicked the link to the ILR website and they now label it as "New Orleans, LA." They also explain the "grit rating" issue in detail as you do.
Sir.
I am a 2nd generation barber from the infamous 8 mile road in Detroit Michigan. I would like to thank you for this video. This is a dying art. And people like you keep it alive. Thank you.
Thank you Darryl! It's making a strong comeback and will be around for a while. :-)
Being new to straight razors, I've seen numerous videos that demonstrate time consuming and expensive ways to accomplish what you've shown me here. Your video is simple, economic, and informative. I shall make the initial investment and learn how to maintain my straight razor with the confidence you've shown me. Thank you.
You're welcome!
Man I’ve done the exact process and it has created a phenomenal edge upon my razor! The cutting edge is amazing
Awesome!! Great to hear.
This is a very helpful video. I’ve just got into straight razor shaving and would like to hone my own razors but without getting too much into the art of honing - I just want to keep a great edge so I get a smooth close shave. Thanks for breaking this down to the fundamentals.
I been using a DE razor and sharpen my own knives for the last five years. I watch a lot of UA-cam and this is by far the best informative video I’ve seen in five years. You did the hands on first and the. Educated on the back end. I want to go to a straight razor. This is helped with confidence I can at least sharpen it right. Shaving....... maybe a lot of manual education. Thank you!
Dr. Matt; bringing science, visuals, education and pocketbook concerns into our world with a smile.
Hah! Thanks George.
Thank you so much for that, I have spent un told hours on some razors and got absolutely nothing I'm sure some were sharper when I started. One a full wedge was has been laughing at me for over a year. So as I watched you i decided to check it on a peice of floated glass and found out it was curved from front to back. Following your advice I took the bow out and using no tape I passed it over my charnley forest a dozen passes and it was catching the hairs on my arm. I am sure I will be shaving with it tonight
First video out of dozens I've watched that actually helps instead of making me more confused. Thank you sir. *Subscribed.
Thanks Mate and glad you could benefit from the content! 😁
Thanks for the video even this
many years it is still helping
Sir, I want to thank you for this video. I have a Thiers Issard "Spécial Coiffeur", 6/8 and Half Hollow, and your technique made it the perfect razor for my beard. And yes by the way, I also saved say $200 or more haha!
Great to hear Chris. I’m glad you could put the content to use and way to go sticking it to The Man!😉
one thing for sure. polishing a sword is WAAAAAY different than honing a straight razor. having a lot more difficulty than I expected! even though they're both simple high carbon steel lol. getting AN edge. Sharpie ink all gone, hangs and grips my nail a lot, cuts paper on a whim, but can't seem to get it to pass the hair test!
Like I said, your technique is great, considering all the guys who never even touch the end 3rds of their stones lol as easy as it LOOKS, and really is, it isn't. if you know what I mean. don't let anyone bug you about that. I still have lots of work to do.
I know how to sharpen cooking knives to a razors edge and was wondering if it's the same with a straight razor and I believe it's similar. Thanks for the Informative video.
Finally a way to refresh the edge without messy pastes! Thank you Dr Matt!
You sir, you have conquered the art of honing an edge toe-heel so sharp it shaves. Well done!
Thanks Mate!
Dr. Matt, I just bought my first straight razor this Black Friday. I checked the spine, doesn't need beveling, but it's not as sharp as I'd like it to be. I watched this video a little late though and already ordered an 8k Aluminum Oxide stone and a Naniwa Gouken 12k. The razor doesn't pull on my skin, but it also doesn't want to shave close so it might need to be honed... or it could just be " operator error " involved. 🤣Not sure about that yet. I definitely wanted to hone it anyway just for the sake of removing that problem from the list.
Your videos, especially this one have given me an edge ( no pun intended ) on getting this razor honed when the stones get here and in the future when regular maintenance is required. I made the choice to switch to a straight razor mainly because I've been using the ol' school single razor disposable ( the double sided kind that tucks into the all metal safety razor ) for the last 3 years and I'm just getting tired of spending money on refills. I knew if I took this route, it'd pay for itself inside of 6 months.
You know what I watched this again today on the computer. On the larger monitor screen the edge you magnified is clear as day that the edge is so refined.
Never ceases to amaze me how good the ILR is for the money.
Keith Johnstone must have been very unlucky to have caught two bad stones or he's got some other reason to say what he did.
At the end of the day the stone works.
Best maintenance video Dr Matt, when it's time I always give it a quick watch as a reminder. Just as a motivator to do it.. lol
Keith is a narcissist
Dr. Matt
I took your recommendation and go the IRL stone and I am extremely happy with the stone. Using your running water method I am getting some amazing edges. Again thanks!
Grant Lockwood, I can't get ahold of the stone. Lucky you!
Love your .45 T-Shirt!
I run dry laps on the ILR with my blades as the final step of my progression, and I think I get better edges as well.
what steel? Is the stone wearing off fast with tool steel or high carbon blades?
This is great Matt. Easy to understand for beginners like me. Thanks for making it.
Yes
After using the Imperia La Roccia the shaving was nice and smooth despite the dry shave. Thanks for the information and techniques!
I just had bought me a shapton 8K stone and I’ve bought the ILR so I’m going to do this same thing to get that cutting edge sharp!
My ILR is scheduled for delivery today... I. definitely going to try that on my Fili after I get it lapped. Thanks for making this video, Matt!
How are you liking your stone ?
Good day DrMatt. I made my entry in to straight razor shaving a couple years back, and after discovering this video, made my purchase of both of the stones recommended in this video. I rewatch it every time I'm going to refresh my razors. First I'll thank you for the info and instruction. Very valuable to me... I've had great success in maintaining both my razors without issues. I'm curious, how often do you think the stones need to be re-lapped over time with granite and sandpaper? Thank you ~Drew
Thank you Drew and I'm glad you can benefit from the content. My 8K stone since I use a slurry on it, I lap it every time I use it. The ILR, since I only use it under running water with no slurry, I honestly can't remember the last time I lapped it so you could finish dozens of razors on it. Then you could always get a straight edge and check them for when they start to dish and lap them then.
Thank you! @@drmatt357
Shaved with my edge off the ILR today and it worked great. BBS shave with no irritation. What impressed me was how keen yet smooth the edge felt. It was almost like a coticle edge but keener.. I am impressed. Thanks for your help Dr. Matt!
Took me a decent amount of searching, but this was the video that helped me finally understand the honing process (with good results at home, too).
Right on!
great explanation Not took the jump to straight yet. looks like maintaining the edge is easier than learning to strop correctly. Off work for a few weeks after an op on my hand so going to be watching a lot more of your content. great work.
So if I'll start using circle strokes for the whole length of my rock hard... polishing stone then I'll gain some extra inches ?
In all these years, you’re the only one who got it but the way it works is if you twirl across the room on the way to getting busy, your gal may actually like you by the time you arrive. 😉😆
Great video Dr Matt. I really like the demonstration of the different scratch patterns, and would love to see more of it. Maybe do a video where you do the same procedure and show black arkansas, spyderco UF and of course many more :D
Keep up the good work.
Awesome video.. ILR was my first finisher and still have a very special place between my stones..
You still like your ILR stone ?
what would you recommend for one stone from edge to finish other than coticule?
I am just getting into the straight razor style of shaving. Thanks for your candor on stones. I bought the Kuromako 8000, & the ILR stone. The price of the ILR's have jumped since you made this vid. They now cost 65.00.
The regular 2X6 (not premium) is still $50 and with the DRMATT2X6 discount code, you save $5.
www.imperialaroccia.com/store/2-x-6-ILR-STANDARD-Standard-12-15k-Hone-p129339007
There $180 bucks here in canada.
@@nateermine2849 - but that still like $50 Murican tho, right?😉
I'm a woodworker, I have a Norton india combination for really hogging off metal. I own a set of Smiths Arkansas stones that takes me from soft, hard and black. I usually start with my Hard and move to the black for normal honing and strop for a good edge. Most of the tools I have found "in the wild" have had really neglected edges.
I got that ILR hone the standard stone! Ultra fine! Thing is awesome! And their 3 inch wide strop the horween Latino leather
The system you demonstrate here works perfect.
Thanks for the video. Love that shirt. My EDC is a Springfield Range Officer Elite Champion 1911 in .45ACP.
HAWKEYE OFTHEEYE - The only way to roll! Thanks for stopping by. 😁👍🏻
I Love my Smith and Wesson performance center 1911 here. .45 cause shooting twice is just silly! how great is that statement!!!
Dr Matt, I realize this is an old video, but I enjoyed it. I wondered what you use for magnification. Would you mind sharing what you are using now? Maybe everyone would enjoy a video.
I'm way ahead of you Rick! ua-cam.com/video/49ERZiDbDj4/v-deo.htmlsi=2BINSwSXeF_waCyy
Thanks! just found this after many years. subbed :) have a great day
Good god man.... you really really truely love the sound of your owen voice..... i really like the way you do want to be a master at your craft and want to share it with the world that my freind is very awsome....
so i geuss just keep on keeping on man....
Great vid Dr Matt...first one I have seen..Just starting out with straights and it really helped on the honing aspect. Although I have the Norton 4/8K and a Chinese 12K I was able to get a really good hone and a very nice shave. I ordered the ILR and fire hose strop and we will see some incremental improvements hopefully. I really like the edge shots juxtaposed at the end..very informative.. Your channel will hold a place of honor..and look forward to more. Again thanks..really good stuff
Thank you Randy. I've tried the Chinese stone before and didn't have much luck with it but I believe I had a bad one. They have a problem with consistency. Good luck with the ILR and let us know how it goes.
Hey DrMatt! thanks for the awesome videos! I wonder if your recommendations changed after 7 years of this video being published, will wait for the update!
Still a good choice. I don’t recall if I said I’m the video but I believe you should be proficient with synthetic stones first before going to natural stones. But the ILR is a great transitional stone for the reasons stated.
your coming back with force Dr Matt. watching now!
Great video. I’ve been using a shavette for about a year and have been apprehensive about moving to a real straight razor because of the cost and difficulty of maintaining them. After watching this I’m definitely want to try a straight razor.
Really great video, thanks! You answered my question comparing 12k Naniwa vs ILR.
Thanks again Dr Matt, I now know it's more affordable to being able to get started and to maintain a razor. I just hope I can put it to my wife as well as you have educated me on this.
Very best regards Gordon. 🙏👍👌
Have her give me a call. I'll straighten that situation out!
Just did my first touch up on the ILR using what I learned in this video to great results.
Andy Dixon - Well done Mate! Feels good... doesn’t it!😏
Thank you for the video Dr. Matt, you've provided a ton of insight for me and I really appreciate the help. Well done sir!
Nate Fair m
when u killed the edge, and it worked going to 8k right away doesnt that imply that its setting the bevel? Do we even need a stone under 8k ever? ( in theory) NVM Watched ur Razor Bevel setting video, U really need to make a 1 hour or so video, 101 SR. Cus after watching most of ur videos, u make the most sense. Great videos man
Thanks Eli and sorry but I'm just seeing your comment. After the bevel has been set, yes, really only need the 8K and finisher. Watch my Geometry series on how I find and fix these problems.
The man knows his stuff!
Excellent instructional video. Thank you so much!👍👍
love your videos I am going to remember to get the ilr as soon as I get back to the US. love your videos and smile.
Thanks Tal. Appreciate that.😃
Dr Matt....great video, and very instructional. But I would like to add another way to maintain a SR Edge. Using a barber's hone . That is all I use to maintain the edge. How effective is it? Ever since I use the barber"s hone (Franz Swaty) the last time I touched up my razors (with a stone) was well over a year ago, and they are every bit as sharp as they were when I first started using it. About the ELR.....its a great finishing stone, but if you use it in combination with a coticule (8000 grit) and an Escher (around 10000 grit) the ELR, the edge it puts out gives by far the most comfortable shave. Nothing beats it, not even a JNat....
Yes, many ways to skin this cat. We all have our favorite edges and will fight to the death to convince everyone else of it. LOL!
I tried sanding my stones and never got good enough results. I spent around 15 EUR and trashed all after wearing down my stones considerably and still the were concave. The slurry never moved along the whole edge and it was hard to catch the edges. Then I purchased an Atoma 400 and it was a revelation in my bevel setting and honing. Planar hones and a slurry in no time with less stone wear than before.
Awesome! The right equipment matters!!
This is the best ILR video ever!
H. Al. - It certainly is Al! Thanks for tuning in. 😉
got the ILR! works great!. wish you made more educational videos!
You still impressed with your ILR stone ?
Could you explain what a slurry stone is and does it have, and or need to be a certain grit?
@@philwilliams8328 - a slurry stone is most commonly a small piece of the sharpening or host stone to build a slurry which speeds up cutting.
@@drmatt357 So could I use a small block of 1000 grit Japanese NAGURA stone to use as a slurry stone on the 8000 K stone, or would it be absolutely necessary that I use the same grit? Sorry for the confusion on my part.
@ - should be the same grit. If you use a 1K slurry on an 8K stone, you’ll have more of a 1K edge.
@@drmatt357 Well that certainly makes sense. I've sharpened knives before before but I've never used, much less ever having heard of a slurry stone. Managed to find and order a 8000 K Naniwa Nagura slurry stone for the Shapton Melon 8000 K stone and also the ILR stone albeit I opted for one of the larger ones and the accompanying expense! Would there be any advantage as a final step to run the blade several times across an oiled hard black Arkansas stone? Other than that.... great informative video!
Awesome tutorial, thank you so much for sharing. Just getting into str8 razors and your video was so helpful. All I have have is the Norton 8k 4K going to buy the the finishing stone you recommend.
I saw a video last night where the guy who is apparently very reputable as far as sharpening goes made an example of using just the norton 4000/8000 grit combo stone.
I forget his name but I’m sure if you searched you’d find it pretty fast
Then you can still shave while you acquire the finishing pieces
Dr Matt, what a great video! My stable of razors either have your PERFECT edge on them or the bevel isn't set and the 8k isn't effective. My wife got me another razor for Christmas and the bevel was close enough for me to play with. After shaving with your coticule edge for months now (daily shaves) I was shocked at two things: First, how easy this ILR is to use. I'm sure my 12 year old son could put a great edge on a blade with this stone. Second, how good the shave is, even compared to your perfect coticule edge. Different for sure, even surprisingly different but still very good.
You talk in this video about how satisfying it is to put an edge on a razor that you use... Boy are you right! Thanks for the great information.
I hone my own razors I finish on a 12k naniwa but man that ilr stone is amazingly impressive I'm gonna get one and try it out
I also restore razors if they ain't in to bad of shape
The 12k naniwa is a very nice finisher. The ILR is similar but still a natural edge finish and I think they feel a bit better. That's hard to explain but let us know how it goes when you get it. Thanks for the comment.
Thanks great video. I've managed to recover 2 razors after watching
Steve Dornan - Great job there Steve! See, it’s actually pretty simple. 😜
Thanks Doc. Loved your technique on the ILR. Pulled mine out, tried it and holy cow...WONDERFUL!!! Thanks soooo much.
Thanks Chuck. I'd really like to hear from anyone else who has tried this technique and how were your results?
Dr.Matt is this still your go to combo of stones after all these years? I'm fixing to buy them.
If you want to start on natural stones, yes it's a great and easy starter. I would suggest that you have a full synthetic progression and become proficient at it before going to natural stones tho. The synthetic finisher I always recommend is the Naniwa 12K Super Stone.
@drmatt357 Thank you so much Dr. Merry Christmas and here's to a great new year 🍾 🍺.
Nice video Matt. If someone needs to set the bevel, how many grits is the starting point? 1000 grit? After that, we need 4000k and 12000 K? Thanks
Any tips for a translucent ark stone. I use soapy water on it
I did a 2 part series on Trans Ark stones.
Very nice! I think I just found my finishing stone. Thanks a lot!
Great video.
Great video Matt :) Just ordered myself a ILR
When honing shouldn't you tape the razor's spine to stop wear (only) on spine ?
This is a potential can of worms but I’ll try. There are many who believe you should always use tape to preserve the beauty. Ideally you shouldn’t use tape because as you sharpen it over the years, the blade gets narrower… but the spine also gets thinner therefore preserving the geometry or bevel angle (it’s a function of the width of the blade and spine thickness. See my measuring bevel angle how and why video). If you tape the spine and sharpen, the blade gets narrower but the spine does not concurrently get thinner therefore creating a fatter and fatter bevel angle which degrades performance.
Having said that, I will use tape on old wedges and heavy grind razors to ease the burden of sharpening old twisted, poorly ground blades.
drmatt - Hi, can you do a short video showing off that coticule up close please.
dontbeaculpus Do you mean showing the technique closer or do you want to see pics of the stone? If you want pics, email me and I can send you some.
Yea, I just wanted to satisfy my coti fetish and see it up close. I'll email you for pics. Thanks.
Thank you sir - I am ordering these and will try them as my go-to from now on and see how it works long term - I get mixed results sending my straights out and would rather just learn to do it myself
.
That’s the way to do it!
Do I need to put some protection on the spine?
Will the spine wears out if I dont?
Yes the spine will wear but proportionately as the width narrows from rubbing the blade on a stone. Tape is for girls!
@@drmatt357 You're a patient guy.
I'm following most of this video, and especially appreciate him pointing out the finishing stone, but there's one thing I'm missing:
6:30 - He talks about "slurree?" What is that?
Ward Payne slurree is those particles out of the stone you get using a different stone to make them more ,aggressive’. While you sharpen you don’t remove it. A stone under running water will act as a stone with higher grit. I hope you can follow my English.
What he said. Building a slurry makes it cut faster then rinse it off for a finer finish. Like a 2 stage process.
Hi mate could you recommend where to get the stones?
It was 8 K and 12 K right
Yll Demiri - You can get them here: www.chefknivestogo.com/drmastpr.html
Matt love the videos I am getting in to straight razors and sharping it. Would like to know more about Maintaining the ILR stone. And if it is better to pap it till shining smooth
No need to lap/burnish it shiny like a trans Ark. stone as it’s not nearly as hard and wouldn’t maintain that finish… not that it could get that shiny anyway. It would be overkill and really just a waste of time. Just make sure it’s lapped flat. I use my Atoma 400 plate but a piece of sandpaper of equivalent grit and a square of granite from Depot will work also.
@@drmatt357 thank you vary much! And thanks again for all the good videos
Spend the extra money on a diamond flattening plate, I used the sand paper method a messed up all my fine grit naniwa stones, when the sand paper starts to wear down those pieces embed into the stone, luckily I only used one side with the sand paper method or I would have had to buy new stones.
Sorry for the veeery delayed follow up question, how does the use of sandpaper for flattening a stone mess it up?
@@peterwolf8149It doesn't he's speaking out of his ass.
I am a little new and was wondering what your set up was the the .25 and the fili
DrMatt Do you use chromium oxide or diamond paste/sprays on your strops? Thanks for the advice on a great video even I can do my own now.
Peter Harrison - glad you’re self sufficient with your razors Pete. I don’t use pasted or sprays on my strops. If I want to use it, I do it while honing as a last step. Watch my recent Koraat video. Cheers!😁
Great video instruction. Thanks for the slides at the end, really drives home your point.
At what time frame (number of shaves or other form of measuring time) should one go to these stones for maintenance. Is it when I start to feel the edge being rough?
You're exactly right Kia. Everyone has different skin, whiskers, razors and technique so there's no real number. Just when it starts to tug or get uncomfortable and stropping won't bring it back.
hello matt ... can you tell me what are the three or four stones i need to do everything to take a really out of shape straight razor to fine shaving edge?
Sricharan C Well, you'd need a bevel setter so that would be the Chosera. You need a finish stone like the ILR (tons of options here). Then you need a stone or two between the 1K and finish. You could go just a 5K, 5&8, I go 2,5&8. For bare minimum, 1,5, finish. Those stones are on my CKTG web page in the description.
thanks matt ... that was very prompt
Hi Doc, just one more quick question please. If you've gone through your progression with tape on your spine, would you need to leave it on when you get to the ILR, or would you have to take it off? What happens to the 'stiction' if you have tape on? Cheers Doc!
Have to leave it on and yes, that sticky feeling probably won’t happen. Just don’t go over 20-30 passes.
Cheers Doc
ehh doc love your vids I just bought a Chinese natural polishing stone from woodcraft in Minneapolis it's about 12000 grit for 26 us talk about a steal cheers
can i jump from 8 k to the ILR or does that take too much time should i by a stone in the middle
Øyvind Grimsland Yes, for sure! 8K to the finish stone is preferred. It will take more time and money to use a stone in- between. 😜
I only have 2 barber shop stones one is red on side. Are these ok?
It's hard to say. I may be able to have a better idea if you sent me a pic or 2. drmatt1911@gmail.com
Dr. Matt I have a question. I use a 4000, 8000, 12,000 wet stones. And a stone leveler to keep the stones flat. After honing on the 12000 grit the razor is sharp like a knife but not razor sharp. If I run the edge about a 1/4" above my skin on my arm. It will cut about 8% of the hair. I need to get to the next level. I don't use slurry stones. Do I need a higher grit stone or what type of slurry stone etc? Thanks for your channel.
I gather you meant 4000, 8000 12000? Try a piece of tape on the spine and go 30 on the 8K then the same on the 12K and let me know what happens. Are you stropping before you test with the tree top?
@@drmatt357 Yes sir, I did mean 4,8, an 12,000 stone. Yes, I did strop with it on the linen and the leather about 25/60. I'm not using any high dollar stones. I have thick whiskers. By the way I use olive oil as a preshave. It is the best oil I have found and it helps shaves off whiskers well. I would encourage you to try it one time if you never have.
watched a video keith made with this stone. when using a slurry do you notice the stone chipping the edge? and is this method something you would use to avoid the slurry stone. just x strokes, strop, and xstrokes again?
+Nicholas Paraskevas nichoLAS... did you watch the entire video? especially @ 21:45 ???LOL
+drmatt357 oh yeah. Lol
I really enjoy your videos. my question to you is do you want command taping or no taping. and please include your reasoning thank you
I prefer not to use tape but I have done it. I think Murray Carter explains it best here:
ua-cam.com/video/WECHanHc8Ko/v-deo.htmlm22s
Hi dr.Matt!
I’ve been watching your videos for a few weeks now and find them really informative!
Anyway, I got my first straight razor for Christmas and after just watching your “sharpening your first new razor” video and then this one I’m just curious as to why you put the electrical tape on it to start with and then don’t bother putting it on with other razors?
Again, thanks a lot for all your head these past few weeks
I suggest using it if it’s your first razor or a beginner at sharpening. It makes it easier to form an edge.
Fantastic! I ordered my first strop from your recommendation. Now I have a good idea where to start getting the proper stones and how to use them. That Japanese frameback was shave ready as advertised so hopefully I will be able to find out if the person used tape.
BRAVO! Keep posting your enjoyable videos Doc!
I thought the spine of the razor determines the grinding angle. I never knew of the tape aspect.
the imperial stone is way too expensive now, any alternatives Doc?
How would a person find the stones that you use in this video?
Look on the video description. Both links are there. DRMATT2X6 at checkout and save $5 on the 2X6 regular ILR stone.
Great video Doc! Does this technique eliminate the need for compound pastes?
Well, you can use any finishing stone without using sprays or pastes. You use those when you want a hyper sharp edge. Some people don't like them because they are too sharp. This technique/combination of stones is a stand alone method but if you want even more, you certainly can go to a pasted strop or nano-cloth.
@@drmatt357 Thanks a ton for your reply. That all makes sense. If I finish on a Shapton 12k, is there a real need for the ILR?
@@kleraudio - No, that's a great finisher and my #1 recommended synthetic finishing stone.
So what are the grits of the only two stones you need? I have 1k 4k 8k & 12k
In your case, 8 & 12!
Dr. Matt how much pressure are you using during your x strokes on the ILR? I have been trying your method but I'm not sure if it's gonna get sticky.
Jonathan Reeves I use about 6-8 ounces of pressure then lighten up as I finish.
great video. keep em coming. love the microscope shots.
Hi Dr. Matt! Could you offer some updated advice about which stones are the best for their price?
The ILRs are 3x the price they used to be and I'm seeking a good yet cheap stone to start with. I can't always borrow my dad's. I just ordered my first razors and I'm excited to get to use them soon.
Many Thanks & Happy Holidays!
Sorry Ninqi as I'm just seeing this. The stone has only gone up $10. You probably saw the premium grade. I still just use this one: imperialaroccia.com/6standard.htm
Hi. Will buy an ILR next week. It comes with a slurry stone apparently but would you recommend the stone you are using instead?
Great video! Just wondering does it affect the spine at all resting it on the stone while running it along the stone?
Yes it does. It will put wear on the spine or “hone wear”. Some people don’t like it so they put tape on the spine to protect it.
Thanks for the great video. Some day I swear I'll get the microscope and go for the perfect edge but for now the 8k plus the natural stone work great! (Ps. I used a naniwa 8k and worked well. Think there's a difference and worth trying the one from the video?)
No, the Naniwa is fine. Certainly don't need another 8k stone.
Thank you!
Hello Dr Matt357
I can't find on your website the Shapton pro 8k stone 🤔🤔🤔
www.chefknivestogo.com/shpro80.html
Feb 2024: I clicked the link to the ILR website and they now label it as "New Orleans, LA." They also explain the "grit rating" issue in detail as you do.
Can these same materials and techniques be used on other knives as well?
tomshiba51 - yes but generally this grit level is overkill for a knife. Maybe substitute like a 1K & 5K.