Thank you all for the kind words. I believe I received some "high praise"

I will add your suggestion, Lynn.

About the tape issue: I certainly did not intend to come accross as if I reject the use of tape. I think tape has the advantage of shielding the spine from hone wear. For the functionality of the razor and the final outcome of a honing, I don't think it makes a difference. I will try to pinpoint where I came accross as being biassed against tape, and rephrase it in some way, or add clarification.

Kind regards,

Bart.