I think if you read through the forum, you will find a lot of great information on all types of honing from what you are calling traditional to many other techniques and media around today that give great results. Like any other art, there is a significant amount of personal preference involved here.

There are a lot of people out there who will poo poo methods they have not tried or say they do not understand. The Pyramid method has been a very successful and reliable way to hone razors and thousands have been successful in learning to hone because of it. Real experience comes from being able to do and then compare. Even though preference will play a part here the lessons and differences are invaluable.

Don't worry, you're not banned........Your Dad though...........

Have fun,

Lynn