I have wondered this myself as well. I was told by some to always keep the electrical tape on the spine while I hone. I think it was because my two original razors were from a barber behind my house and there is a good amt of hone wear.

This advice was given to me by one of our own so I assumed it to be the way I always hone. Should this be correct? Have not used my straights in a bit and I will be honing them soon again.