When I started honing I followed that mantra of no pressure, coupled with an inexperienced technique my results were very poor. Possibly as I was almost paranoid about not applying any pressure.

Over time I have started applying pressure, I apply the most in the early stages and I gradually reduce up to the point of finishing the razor with none, this is seeming to be the best approach for me.

When I go back and attempt to hone all the way through with no pressure then the results are poor again.

Is this normal?