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I think this is the first time I'm hearing of a 45 degree stroke on the strop, so kudos on trying something new and finding success.

On the hones, the 45 degree heal leading stroke will accomidate...

Sounds like you are getting there. The more you do it, the better it gets.

Also, don't worry about the HHT. Focus on arm hair tests and the shave test, and that should be more reliable for you.

On this blade, what happens when you lay the other side down? If the other side is the same, then you have a blade with a smile. For both sides, you can use the rolling X stroke or a heal leading...

The use of various pastes and sprays on hones is a pretty "advanced" endeavor - IMO, it will be very difficult to do if you do not have a very good idea of what you are looking for from your edges...