0.5µ is a finisher so you'll likely need to start with something coarser. I'll let the paste gurus give you more specific advice.

As for the cutting angle; essentially you lead each stroke with the tip ahead of the heel rather than a straight push with the whole edge moving ahead in perfect unison. Helps when you cut a tomato and it helps when you're shaving too. I also find that the easier cuttin action means I can use less pressure and actually geta safer shave with less nicks.

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