By George, I think I've got it!!
Finally got a shave-quality edge on my Waterville 5/8!
http://www.shavemyface.com/gallery/a...__Razor_-1.jpg
Used the Norton 4K-8K. The blade has a slight smile. I think the advice about using the X-stroke even if the blade fits on the hone is what threw my over the edge.
The thumb pad test felt like my Feather AC. I had some problems with the HHT, but I always do, even with the Feather. I took the blade to a pasted strop, did 20 laps on 1.0 and 20 on 0.5, then to the hanging strop for 100 round trips on the canvas and about 50 on the leather, and the hairs started jumping apart when the blade came anywhere near them. They don't seem to catch then break like on my honemeistered Dovo 6/8, but they just seem to split without my feeling any hesitation, except at the very heel.
The shave feels a bit rougher right now than with my Dovo, but better every day. I'll keep at it with the linen till it feels right. The shaves are incredibly close.
