Hi regularjoe,
Sorry, I don't mean to be dismissive about the extra layers of tape, of course it's a valid option. The reason I am choosing not to use extra tape is I want to even out the whole of the existing bevel. It's possible that after I've done that I'll add another later. That way I suspect I'll have two nice even bevels parallel to the edge of the blade all the way along the blade. I fear if I go the extra layer now, I'll still be left with an uneven bevel, albeit one not actually on the edge. i realise this will make no difference to the cutting edge, but will mess with my OCD and look a little unsightly. I'd rather a wider even bevel than two, with one being uneven. Does that make sense? The other reason is I want to 'standardise' the number of layers. Again, I'm thinking it's possible i forget in the future that I've used two layers of tape. Better for me to leave it at one and put up with a wide (yet hopefully even and smooth) bevel.
Each time I try to hone this razor it improves, but it's STILL not there yet! I was able to shave my goatee off with it last night, no nicks or irritation, but it's still not a CLOSE shave, no where near as nice as my other razors that I've honed on the same equipment. It's like shaving with a Bic that's a month old with no cream.
I know I said in another thread that I'm going to keep going until i get it right, but I think I'll actually have Sunday night as the last chance. If I can't get it done after honing it again tonight (Fri) Sat and Sun I'll send it away. I do thank you all for all your input, it is ALL valid. I do know I'm making mistakes, and I know I over think things and sometimes go against the wisdom, but I want to know WHY it's not going too well.
Wintchase,
I thing i'm almost there with this, at least I HOPE so. The edge looks really smooth, even, shiny and straight. I actually can't for the life of me work out why it's not sharp. It could be the bevel's still not set 100% right.