I've been experimenting with how I finish a razor with a coticule. I prefer not to use synthetics in my progression. I'll use a jnat to bridge the gaps between bevel set and finish, or go straight to my coticule after bevel set.
When I finish with a coticule, I've tried several methods. Plain water only, under running water til it gets sticky, cloudy water (leaving a little slurry). But lately, I'm finding that a lubrication (water with Dawn soap) aerated on the stone provides a really nice finish. It seems the lubrication reduces friction, polishes the edge more, and results in a sharper edge. I don't have before/after pics to share, but under a loupe, the difference is noticible.
I don't know exactly how this translates to a more refined apex, but the bevel/edge appears more refined. This leads me to believe the apex is as well, and HHTs/shaves seem to confirm my suspicions.
So I ask, how do you finish with a coticule? Have you experimented with lubrication? What were your results like?
When I finish with a coticule, I've tried several methods. Plain water only, under running water til it gets sticky, cloudy water (leaving a little slurry). But lately, I'm finding that a lubrication (water with Dawn soap) aerated on the stone provides a really nice finish. It seems the lubrication reduces friction, polishes the edge more, and results in a sharper edge. I don't have before/after pics to share, but under a loupe, the difference is noticible.
I don't know exactly how this translates to a more refined apex, but the bevel/edge appears more refined. This leads me to believe the apex is as well, and HHTs/shaves seem to confirm my suspicions.
So I ask, how do you finish with a coticule? Have you experimented with lubrication? What were your results like?