What is clear so far from this post is that there are several methods which may produce excellent results. This is why I love this hobby. The journey, the experimentation is really what makes it interesting. However, there are some common themes from this thread worth emphasizing.

1. "Less is more" but that means less pressure not necessarily fewer strokes on the 8k plus, pasted balsa, or leather.

2. Finishing strokes are spine leading at a minimum by the time you hit the pastes or leather.

3. Newbies should acquire a lighter touch for the finishing strokes to achieve the best edge.

Thanks to all for your input.

Gammaray