What to use after Norton 4000/8000 to get a smoother shave?

[shavingnoobie]

I currently use a Norton 4000/8000 and wondering what stone is good to use next after 8000 grit for a shave that feels smoother. I heard Chinese 12k is good but also that it's a hit or miss since it's a natural stone. Any suggestions? Thanks!

[Wid]

What is the budget? I used a C12K and a Naniwa 12K with good results after the Norton stone. Or you could sell the Norton and get a Coticule and use it from bevel set to finish.

[UPD]

Hard to beat the Naniwa 12k for consistently good results and ease of use.

[Gamma]

Try Crox on linen. Or a Coticule - or both.
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[Doc226]

1 micron lapping film-lack of mojo and everything

+ 1 on coticule, specially if you finish on oil

Naniwa's are great consistent stone, I don't like the feel of the edge on my face.

[O.G.]

You can also finish on coti with lather. Sup Doc.

[Drybonz]

Many options.

[Legion]

I used to use a Chinese hone after the 8k and got good results.

[jeness]

Naniwa SS 10k, 12k, Shapton 16k, chinese 12k, Jnats, coticules, 1 micron lapping film, any paste of 0.5 micron or lower, and the list goes on. It depends on your budget and preferences.

I would go with some crox on balsa or leather, or 0.5 micron diamond paste/spray. Cheap, easy to use, fast, and hits almost every time.

[Kentos]

Since everything has been already suggested.

Thurigian, Escher, Black Arkie, Japanese Natural Stone. Or a pasted balsa progression of diamond or CBN pastes.

[paco664]

surgical black arkie with oil.......

it will take forever to lap..... but it is worth the effort...

[Hammertime1]

Crox is my favorite solution. I make a special strop impregnated with crox n some other goodies. Works its magic every time.
Like others have posted lots of options. Just finding the one that suits you best.