Yeah, I definately allow for the fact that my technique could be to blame. I just really wasn't sure about the honing. I was just hoping someone could let me know if classic usually gets them done right. I'm pretty sure that they do, but just wanted the piece of mind.

I ran it over the linen strop about 15 times each way, and then over the leather about 30 times each way. Kept the edge and the spine flat without problems, so I think that should be fine. The strop is an Illinois 835, and I assume I should be using the smooth side of the leather.

As for using the heel and toe, I figured that part out, but I still seem to catch some sideburn keeping the razor at 30 deg. and lined up with the grain on my cheeks. I could probably trim my sideburns down and keep that in check, but I usually wear them on the longer side.