Belgian Blue Waterstones
A Belgian Blue Waterstone works by releasing microscopic garnets, far harder than steel, that are carried in the ‘slurry’ that builds up on the stone surface in use. This slurry is actually made up of a mixture of hard, fine clay (the body constituent of the stone) and garnets.
This stone, because it is non-porous, cannot clog or become glazed. The obtuse facet edges of the round and oval garnets abrade the steel without the gouging that is common with more acutely angled abrasives. This leaves the steel with a much smoother polish and a noticeably finer edge.
This combination of speed and fine finish is unique. I find it a great hone to use and a very fine edge can be obtained by using progressively lighter pressure on the stroke. It has a distinctively different ‘feel’ and does cut rather more slowly than the yellow Coticule but gives an equally good finish. The slower cutting cuts the risk of over-honing. Specific slurry stones are available to help create a slurry and so speed up the process.
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We have always used the term "straight razor" but in truth most people know this type of razor as a "cut-throat razor" or, less frequently, as an "open razor". It really doesn't matter, all these terms relate to the same implement.
We have a variety of razor starter kits which include everything necessary to start your venture into straight razor shaving. They also make an ideal shaving gift. This section also includes some entry level razors which are good choices for a beginner. Alternatively you can put together your own choices and perhaps upgrade the razor or strop. Please just ask if you need help.
We ship Worldwide, and shipping is free to all countries for orders over £125, but there is a charge for orders of a lower value. Full details may be found in our Delivery and Returns Policy. Prices are determined in GBP. For your convenience you are able to see indicative prices in U.S. Dollars and Euros but payment will be taken in GBP and there will inevitably be some variation to the U.S. Dollar and Euro prices shown. We accept payment by all major credit and debit cards as well as through Paypal.
If you are just starting out with a straight razor then we have a wealth of information on the website for beginners. Please visit our Information section which includes advice about choosing a cut-throat razor, how to strop a razor and much more. We are also always happy to offer advice and assistance where we can. Please just ask.
Our aim is to help our customers keep their razors in use. Now and again every razor will benefit from being honed. As not all our customers wish to learn how to hone we offer a straight razor honing and stropping service where we will sharpen your cut-throat razor on our premises and return it to you. This service is available for all razors we sell, vintage razors and some other brands of new razor but there are brands of new razor that we will not accept. Please see our Sharpening Service section for more details. We also offer a service to fit scales (razor handles) purchased from us.
This term relates to the fact that once unfolded from the scales (i.e. the handle) the razor's edge is open or unprotected, as opposed to a safety razor where the edge is shielded to some extent.
