Straight Razor Place Forums

ZethLent · 07-09-2009, 03:07 AM

I got two new coticules in the mail the other day.

Both are La Petite Blanche (mined from an area of Ardennes that produces some of the best coticule ever). The La Petite Blanche coticules are known by a light blue/grey streaking that can be seen on the edge of the coticule. The first one is more pronounced than the second though. This ussually indicates a very good coticule.

The first one is a 'standard' and has some blue/grey 'dots' that penetrate the coticule layer. It is a natural combination stone. Size 60x200.

The Second is a 'vintage' one that Joel originally owned. It is a Kosjer level of coticule (that means that the layer of coticule is without flaw throughout the entire layer of coticule stone). It also has a mild amount of 'grey swirl' that is visible on the surface. Size is 60x130.

The two hones lined up along with the slurry stone. You can see how the 'dots' on the larger one penetrate the coticule layer. These have no effect on the honing properties of the coticule. And on the smaller one you can see the hazy blue/grey streak along the edge of the hone. It also is faintly stamped 'Made in Belgium'

I have yet to lap the larger of the two, but the smaller one came lapped so I put it to use last night.

I did about 20 light strokes with water only on my recent Les+++Croix, stroped it and set it aside for the morning shave.

Results: Very very nice.

I look forward to using the other, larger one, and will post my thoughts after I have done so.

Utopian · 07-09-2009, 03:19 AM

Those are both very nice stones. I've got one with freckles too, but I really like the look of yours.
Happy honing!

ZethLent · 07-09-2009, 03:25 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Utopian

Those are both very nice stones. I've got one with freckles too, but I really like the look of yours.
Happy honing!

Actually Bart hand picked it for me when he visited Ardennes a couple of weeks ago. I can wait to use it.

DwarvenChef · 07-09-2009, 03:56 AM

Seriously sweet looking stones

StraightRazorDave · 07-09-2009, 04:33 AM

Those are beautiful looking coticules. Looking at them makes me feel like I'm cheating on mine!

hi_bud_gl · 07-09-2009, 04:56 AM

very nice coticules.Congratulations

Memorael · 07-09-2009, 05:02 AM

How can you identify this type of hone? I own several vintage ones and I am curious as to if any are from this section. Also anyone know if the tiger coticules have a better honing result than other coticules?

ZethLent · 07-09-2009, 06:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Memorael

How can you identify this type of hone? I own several vintage ones and I am curious as to if any are from this section. Also anyone know if the tiger coticules have a better honing result than other coticules?

Like I mentioned in the first post, if you look on the edge of the coticule where it is bonded to the blue stone there will be a blue/grey streak mixed in with the yellow of the coticule. You can see it better in the smaller 'vintage' hone. There is a discolouration sandwiched in between layers of yellow. I forgot to take a pic of the other edge of the larger one where it is more evident in that one.

From what I've read the tiger coticules do not have so called 'better' honing results than others but there will most definately be variations in any coticule. They are beautiful hones though!!

JimmyHAD · 07-09-2009, 01:38 PM

Lovely hones Zeth. I was sorely tempted when Joel's Kosher coti came up in the classifieds. The spirit was willing but the paypal account was weak.

I have some coticules with the manganese or whatever it is speckles on the top and the lines in the sides. Also have one nice tiger stripe. All of them will sharpen a razor well.

Say hello to Bart for me and tell him that I look forward to his opening the coticulebe website he posted about.

JimR · 07-09-2009, 01:51 PM

Very nice Seth! I do believe I'm sensing a touch of the RAD taking hold in you...