Hm, I remember that I even used tape all the way to stropping on plain leather when I used tape on the spine for honing... Had good results, iirc.

I have tried tape to hone, then off for 20 laps or so on coticule - have to say this worked for me, too. Theoretically I agree that the edge would contact the hone in a different way - nevertheless, it does work, in my experience.

Very interesting if 'no tape hone / tape polish' or 'tape hone / double tape polish' approaches will break the edge - I don't think so, and was mostly thinking of the addition for the linen and stropping, which I'm thinking will be ok. I also think CrO2 should work fine... No idea about stones, though - such as Belgians, Eschers, etc.

Come to think about this I have a blade to de-chip and hone - maybe I can try this tonight and shave experience afterwards.

Cheers
Ivo