Since we are speaking about pressure in another thread, I think we need to come to a definiton of or a scale for what exactly "pressure" is when sharpening. To say no pressure is technically wrong, since any motion of the blade is a result of exerting force in a given direction.
I sharpen with two hands. I use my strong hand to manuver the blade while I balance the tip of the blade with my thumb and pointer fingers of my weak hand to basically keep it balanced on the stone and to keep it from lifting off the stone too early.
I would grade my "pressure" this way:
Grade 1 - this would be the least amount of pressure, basically just resting the fingers on the blade so I can feel it, but not actively pushing down on it.
Grade 2 - Using the fingers to exert a slight push, as if I placed my fingers on the computer keyboard and exerted enough pressure to jiggle the key, but not enough to press it down so that the letter is typed.
Grade 3 - Using enough pressure on the fingers to start creating some muscle tensioning in the hand. (Try pushing against the desk with your pointer finger to see what I mean.)
Grade 4 - Grade 3 description + the muscles in the forearm begin to react.
Grade 5 - Actual weight and force being exerted, which is dangerous, and will most likely end in a cut, injury or damage to the blade.
Confirmation or different definitions are welcome. If we can get a ballpark grading system, it would benefit many attempting to sharpen their own razors.
Thanks!