After reading a few threads recently, I have come to these conclusions:
1. The X pattern (and its variations) is the best stroke for honing a straight razor
2. A 3" hone provides no benefit over a 2" one
3. A 2" stone can actually be a better choice when honing smiling or warped edges
(not saying these are fact, just saying that's what I've read)

So I'm curious.
Does anyone have a preference for wider hones, or do they simply use them because that is a popular width?
I suspect the reason so many stones are 2.75" or 3" is that these hones are wider so they can be used on knives and tools. I suppose that is is not hard to believe that the straight razor market is small compared to others' sharpening needs.

I do understand that many hones (Norton, Shapton) only come in one width, but when there is a choice, (Coticules, Japanese Naturals), why would one choose a wider size over a smaller one? Especially when it comes to the pricey Coticules that we all love so much. You'd think we'd all just have 1.5" to 2.5" hones.