Straight Razor Place '09 Convention. Lynn Honing #1

[markevens]

Is it good to do the cross pattern even when the stone is wide enough to accommodate the whole blade?

[rbechard]

@markevens I believe the reason why you do an x pattern (regardless of size of stone) is to break off the wire and make sure to create a true sharp edge. Sometimes if you have a wire created you will get the impression of having a sharp edge but it will not last. Hope that answers your question.

[DarkLordVincent]

@rbechard you should never have a burr or wire edge whilst honing. the reason you do and X stroke and angle your blade heel forward is to account for any discrepancies in spine thickness, ie this helps you create and follow a more uniform bevel meaning polishing produces a smooth comfortable edge to shave with. but you are correct that this should be practiced regardless of hone width :)