Even if you can do it faster it's not like you're going to lose much metal as slow as the arks are. I find honing to be cathartic. I don't usually have that much time at once to put into it. I will sometimes do a couple of hours or more but if you can devote that amount of time to it then that's great. The bottom line is you got a buttery smooth shave out of it and that's the whole point. Even if it could have been done in less time or strokes if you enjoy it and you're getting good shaves then you're certainly not out anything. I'm really glad that's working out for you Steve. You've certainly put your heart and soul into it.