I also thought the stone might be the issue. I flattened it with figure 8 passes of a 1200 atoma slurry plate before each honing session and grid lapped it with a granite flattening plate to 400 grit wet/dry three times. I'm pretty sure it's not the hone.
Probably my biggest frustration has been wondering if it's me, my equipment, or the blade. I'm pretty sure I've eliminated my equipment so it's either me or the blade.
If nothing else, I'm getting a lot of practice with circles, wiper strokes, rolling X, X, and straight strokes. I've been switching up just to keep myself entertained while hoping the steel starts taking an edge.
This blade had some apparent grinder marks when I got it. I've been a little concerned about the heat treat having been messed up, but I didn't see any discoloration and the initial bevel seemed OK. Then again I didn't really max out the initial bevel.
I keep hearing Euclid's "voice" as I hone...it's done when it's done...
This blade has been frustrating and I may take a tactical retreat, but I'm not quite ready to give up on it.