Well I always use an x stroke, even on a three inch strop. I would question your honing to be honest. Have you tried to meet with any of the guys back east? Badgister is in Montreal and there is a whole bunch of guys in southern Ontario. I think there are regular meets in the greater TO area. Perhaps you can send your blade to another member that is not too far away and have your edge assessed and perhaps repaired. Effective stropping is the key to maintaining a an edge though. Low or no pressure and a nice steady stroke.