Hey guys... Question about x-stroke on a smiley.. So I was one of those who bought and tried to learn the whole honing process while also learning my first 2 inch blade stroke on my cheek..Did not take long to store the stones until i got my Naniwa SS 12000 out about a year later for learning refresh and touch up work.. Fast forward 2+ years later and that is still all i do on my stones.. Came to realize that total from needing repair to restore blade and edges is the last need to learn on the SR adventure...And it is time. All i needed was a 1000k and that is on its way .Im looking forward to all the stone variations and all that is involved with honing.. I did say i have a question didnt I?... I purchased one of Victor"s Bluesman Bellies about 4 months ago.. It has not had to be on a stone until now.. The spine and edge lay completely flat on the stone so my question is I dont need to do rolling x-strokes since it is flat on the stone right?.. If it does need rollers i will send it to Vic as one of the nice things included in the purchase of one of his razors is his free lifetime honing... Small but a very nice touch.. I have very high praise for the razor i bought.. They are a bit pricey but since i did not impulse and saved for quite awhile it has a little more meaning.. Thanks guys, SMW.