honing an iwasaki straight

I want to give my japanese straight some hone work. My blade has a "blackened" spine and handle. Should I use tape for spine so blackened finish wont wear, or will it be fine on my naniwa 12000?

i don't think you can tape Japanese style blade. You should go head without it.Only personal opinion.
i have never tape it.

All the kamisori I have seen have some sort of a honing flat on each side. Given that the hone will only hit the honing flats on the shoulders and the edge I think your blackened finish should be OK.

thanks for the quick response.....short and to the point. much appreciated

First because of the geometry tape does not last very long on a Japanese Razor as you hone. Second just accept the fact you will loose some of the finish unless you are doing a minor touchup.