I just wanted to add one thing on the slurry, dulling issue.... I do the same as the rest of you, slurry first on the Coticule and then on to water only to perk the edge back up slightly BUT, if I go straight from the slurry to the strop and give the blade a good stropping, it's usually hair popping sharp even though it wouldn't pass the hht when taken directly from the hone. You might just want to try that for yourself. I use an Illinoise 827 strop (the rough side of the leather out type) when I do that and it's amazing how it brings that slurry honed edge up. I'll usually finish on a nice smooth TM strop but I never cease to be amazed by the results I get from the 827.

Christian