Did someone say STROPS? I have two primary strops, both made by my hand, I can't help but think I need more leather. Then again, I like my custom jobs, something about having the width I want that makes me happy.
I was thinking about your honing issues and a light went on. I looked back on you tube and saw an old Dr Matt video where he found that circular pattern honing caused parallel scratches and other random patterns that often resulted in micro chipping and other micro edge issues. He has done a new video that describes the same issue with x-strokes, particularly when the razor is canted on the stone. When you get a chance check out his newer videos on x-strokes and how they might not be so easy to do, he mentions something called "the dreaded white line" ...maybe this is what has been happening with your coti honing.
