And just to drive it home: I'm not eager to hone a pro finished blade. I get me a good blade, use it, careful with the stropping, and if I'm not satisfied with my honing of the practice blade in the first year (cause lets face it, my growth is not fast or heavy), I'll send her out to be pro re-honed.

Like I said, I've been lurking for more than two weeks. Being the youngest of four boys: learning from other's mistakes is like drinking water. The beginner's section is full of "Where newbies always mess up is..."