[QUOTE=niftyshaving;497286]Paste on a hanging strop or paste on a balsa hone?

I am of the opinion that a polish on the bevel is as important
as the set edge. I want the steel behind the edge that is in contact
with my face to "slide" and not push a little roll of skin that
then results in a nick.

QUOTE]


I don't think the polished edge has much to do with your shaving experience. Razors finised with Naturals like the Coticule, Escher, Nakiyama, etc. produce some of the most sought after, comfortable shaves some people talk about.
If you were to look at these edges under a microscope, you would see that they look like they are sandblasted. Even the polished edge, you are eluding too, isn't all that smooth either.
If this makes you think you are getting a smoother shave then stick with it. I would, however, recommend that you find a way to try one of the honers that finishes with a natural and see what the difference might be.
If you are interested in something like that, pm me and we can arrange it.

Ray