Sticky request...?

**Beast** · 02-23-2009, 07:47 AM

I've been straight-only for about 6 months now but I have nooooo clue about coticules/japanese stones/etc.

I know they are very expensive, but that's about it.

Sooo this is my request..If anyone has the time and knowledge, could you fill in us noobs about these stones. What do they do, why should you get one, why does an irregularly shaped chunk of rock cost so damn much?

What prompted me was seeing Joel's $500 Japanese Stone in B/S/T. I have no doubt that it's worth the money and it kicks ass, but how and why?

I really am 100% clueless, so any knowledge you can throw my way would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

**professorchaos** · 02-23-2009, 07:58 AM

Joel has already done just that. Check out section 7 HERE.

**ouch** · 02-23-2009, 08:18 AM

$500? Not like Joel having such cheap stuff.

As with most fields, the sky's the limit, but you can get items that are every bit as good for much less. Shapton GlassStones are very reasonably priced (and will last the average consumer a lifetime), and there are several other high quality brands from which to choose.

**Beast** · 02-23-2009, 09:42 AM

Ah, thanks for pointing me in the right direction!

Originally Posted by professorchaos

Joel has already done just that. Check out section 7 HERE.

**Kees** · 02-23-2009, 12:18 PM

Japanese hones are expensive. Basically you need to know exactly what you are looking for before you buy one. No 2 are the same, even experienced vendors test them first to be able to advise their customers. I have a similar one colour-wise as Joel's and I am happy with mine. But, as I have been told by So, two hones may look very similar but behave entirely different from one another. So the proof of the hone is in the sharpening.

Before you spend 500 USD on a hone like that ask Joel how the hone behaves. You might want to ask Joel if you can test it and return it if it does in whatever way not live up to your honing needs.

I have attached a pic of my Maruichi Maruka Nakayama. Same stamps as Joel's. I use it as a final polishing hone.

Don't you think the hones are the coolest aspect of straight shaving?

**professorchaos** · 02-23-2009, 12:33 PM

Originally Posted by Kees

I have attached a pic of my Maruichi Maruka Nakayama. Same stamps as Joel's. I use it as a final polishing hone.

Don't you think the hones are the coolest aspect of straight shaving?

I sure do! Unfortunately, having found a great progression (which ends with a Maruichi) my HAD is essentially non-existent.