Originally Posted by
Srdjan
My theory and why I use shorter strokes hasn't got a lot to do with wire formation, as I, like Onimaru don't see the wire form that easily on a natural stone. I can't deny though, you gentlemen make some valid points, both regarding low grit and high grit stones.
My observation has been that, when you use a short stroke, it's like you have to think about the flip, almost as soon as you start the stroke. Getting into that mindset means the body (hand) will follow... and automagically, the pressure gets reduced. I think this is what Iwasaki had in mind when he said "the pressure seems to reduce with shorter strokes". JMHO of course - it's a state of mind as well.