Funny David, that without the challenge some of us have settled into this method! To restate what I have posted already, I start with a concave grind, go to the Washita and mostly to a charged strop. Sometimes I'll take a few licks on a hard Arkansas before the strop, but that is usually without rhyme or reason (maybe I'm a bit lazy and don't want to get back into the work at hand?).
As I've already said, I mostly use O1, though by accident there may be some A2 in the mix, but quite frankly I would be hard pressed to remember what tools are A2! I've settled into this method maybe 3 or 4 years ago when I got my prized Washita (not the first one though). Easy-peasy!
I kind of wish George would weigh in here with some historical perspectives or Warren Mickley, though
I don't think he hangs around SMC much.
I see George posted while I was writing this one! Like David I have many stones, but they are mainly vintage and bought cheap! For anyone looking for vintage, first look at the stone's case, if elaborate, that's usually an indication it was prized by the owner and probably costly.
Last edited by Tony Zaffuto; 03-08-2014 at 10:23 AM.
If the thunder don't get you, the lightning will.