You got me on this one. I don't really fool with them that much.
No offense at all intended, but with that much damage (actually dulling) of the blade when you try to hone it, its not suitable for its intended purpose. From what I gather you are doing everything right by instruction, so its gotta be the rod itself. The file-like surface is too rough for just "touching up" blades. I've messed with rods with similar surfaces that are mass marketed cheapies. Hope I helped you out.