Many thanks to Onimaru55, Wolfpack, Eod7, BobH and Pinklarher for the excellent guidance. I will definitely look at the article and app on the usage of tape. The idea never made sense to me because I figured the tape would clog up the stones, but obviously there must be ways around that.

This Chinese 12k has done a good job on some other razors, so it must be my technique or insufficient patience.

I will learn the way of the tape!

I will report back once I have achieved success or after failing and needing more advice

Thanks again guys

David