Extend the scales directly outward from the blade so that the blade and scales form a straight line. Hold the razor in the air way above the hone. Hold it by the shank with thumb and forefinger. Balance it. The blade should not rise, nor should the scales dip.

Now curl your pinky under the scales making it impossible for the scales to dip. If the scales can not dip, the blade can not rise.

The blade can not dip either because it would have to dip into the stone.

The slightest upward pressure on the scales keeps the blade securely on the hone regardless of how much contact the blade has with the stone.

Honing with no pressure is now free, easy, and effortless.