Thanks for the tip. I'll try to put more focus on using the heel and tip.. especially around the ears I think that makes a lot of sense.

I don't head shave as often as you. I typically shave once a week. I wonder if that makes a difference on the strain on the blade? I've also never honed a razor nor am I interested in learning how at this point... Is it good enough that I run about 20 or so laps on a CrOx pasted linen and another 20 on the leather each time?