Honing success - somewhat

[closer]

Hi all, I honed up my Gold Dollar on a set of Naniwa 3k/8k and 12k stones a couple of days ago. I had done this previously a couple of times as well, but didn't feel like I was making consistent strokes, and was not happy with the resultant shave. Couple of days ago, I went back to the Naniwas, and spent more time on the 3k. The razor was shaving armhair throughout most of its length, except just next to the heel, which I was avoiding because this blade has a shoulder. Progressed up through 8k, and tried to use lighter strokes on 12k. I probably did about 40-50 laps at each step. Shaved with it yesterday, and got a pretty comfortable 2-pass shave, where alum block revealed acceptable level of irritation. The razor was neither as sharp as I would like, or as smooth, but did an acceptable job

Only thing is, the first pass (WTG) did not get as close as I'm used to with my other razors. The 2nd pass (XTG) cleaned up the rest quite nicely for a DFS. I'm guessing this is because the edge was not quite as sharp. Is there anybody here who has more experience with Gold Dollars, and is able to put seriously sharp edges on them?

I've got a Frederick Reynolds wedge on the way, will try that next.

 

[chess1]

IN General Gold dollar will take the edge. Some of them (if you unlucky) is PITA.
if you are new to honing try to hone old junk ebay razors.
Most important is have 1 of your blade honed by pro's.
then you can see how properly honed blade will shave and it will help you in long run.
gl

 

[closer]

From what I've read, if the blade is not sharp enough, the issue is usually with setting the bevel. If that's the case, should I go back and do more laps with the 3k? I don't have a 1k atm, but can get one if that will make a big difference.