Thanks to both Geezer and Euclid for the input. One of the reasons I use the tape that I am using, a 1/4" wide Teflon backed tape is it is easier to get straight on the blade, one strip on each side. That is a good point about the edge of the tape defining the angle. I will remember that. As for the hones I use, for the razor if it is really dull and has nicks, I start with an Arkansas hard, about 1200 on the Norton scale, I move up to 8000 then use compounds to 15000 then strop. Does that sound right? It seems to me anytime you are having to grind out nicks it takes a more coarse stone than I would normally use. When I am doing a refresh I start with 3000 and go up.