Thanks all, you all seem in agreement. I do indeed use the X stroke, though I shall definitely have to practice more to do a good job with such a small area. Still, obtaining new skills is what I set out do do! ;-)

Euclid - I did indeed purchase this paddle for travel purposes, though I ended up taking my usual hanging strop too and fortunately the door handles served as an anchor.

Kaptain Zero - I guess this is the main advantage to the "sprung" idea, along perhaps with a "feel" that might be preferable to some against a solid bed.

Thanks all!