Boy it is getting so easy now...who would have ever thought. With lots of help from you guys and some help over at another site, I am getting great shaves and it has become so easy to hone my blades. The whole thing is coming together so fast. I feel so much more in control of the process, honing fast, honing slow, varied grits, pasted balsa wood, whatever. Lots of accolades go to the Carborundum company for thier great hones and the 4,000 side of a Norton (those 8,000 sides are still on my bad boy list). But ultimately I really need to say thanx to you guys for all the great advice and support. Especially, Randy, Joe, Xman, Superfly, Rich, and ofcourse Lynn. I'm sure I've forgotten a few of you, but, thanx guys.