Hi TC, don't get me wrong. I VALUE your advice and indeed, welcome it. I am learning shave technique and I'm much improved. I also have an old razor that I love the look of and want it to be as good to shave with as the professionally honed razors that I use. Therefore I also need to learn how to hone. I think learning new skills is some thing to be valued so any help I can get along the way is much appreciated. Sometimes though my inquisitive nature wont allow me to accept advice on face value, no matter how good or well meant it is. This does not, of course , devalue the advice or the manner in which it is freely given. So, once again, a big "thank you" to you and the other learned members who have freely offered their advice. I appreciate it.