On using tape, I would rather not if I didn't have to. In a situation where I do use tape and the bottom of the tape is where it is getting worn away I cut the tape in half length wise and will put several layers on the spine long enough to cover some of the shank. The last layer I put on will be full width. Sometimes I use two full width layers. With the full width tape I cut the tape where the blade meets the shank. Then when the tape needs to be replaced I just replace the top layer. This way the bevel never changes as the multiple pieces of half width tape are what is really setting the angle and they are not being replaced.

Good luck.