Thanks so much, yes, thats what i need to know, when honing is done and stropping should start. I have been straight razor shaving for five years but have always struggled with this. I use a 4000/8000 stone and my strop. I use the green paste, then the red, and then just leather. Ive always had good shaves, but would love to take the guesswork out of honing/stropping. Many thanks, Glen.