To add to this discussion I wanted to ask what you guys thought about spine thickness being created to give the correct honing angle?
My theory is that possibly way back when this was something that was factored into making a razor. I believe that the spine thickness whould be directly proportional to the width of the blade (when new). Maybe this was the case, maybe not, we'll never know as time has faded and so has the knowledge.
If this is correct, and let's assume for a second that it is, then maybe new razors being made today aren't being made the correct way. Maybe the current makers havent figured out this ratio or simply ignore it? I don't know these answers, just asking is all. To add to this then I see our movement or actions of taping spines on vintage razors as simply a cheat. Maybe a necessary cheat (in some cases) but a cheat non-the-less.
And please, even though did briefly explain where I come from in my ideas of sharpening, let's leave out the experience factor and simply discuss the whys and hows. I really would hate to get into a ****ing match over who knows more. I just want to hear your opinions, not your resume. :)