I use an x pattern, particularly at the end of the honing process.

1) Easier to use light pressure with a pulling stroke

2) Less lapping required

3) May be balancing out the extra pressure I apply at the heel by holding the blade by the shank


What I don't get is why we don't have more people asking:

"How do you guys apply no pressure when honing if I am always holding the shank of the blade against the hone . . . doesn't that apply more pressure at the heel?" followed by "Is that the reason you'all use an x-pattern . . . in order to even out the extra motion created at the tip of the blade while using an x-pattern?"

I don't know, but I've always been of the opinion that the unasked questions are some of the most telling.