nice write up, glad you (in the end) enjoyed the product. from reading your post i think you might be applying too thickly, causing the smearing or the need for the second MF.

if you want to test my theory, this is a simple way to do it. open the jar and press carefully two or three finger tips into the wax and move them around in a circular motion (no scooping). then get your fingers on the car and spread concentrically from a center spot until it is not possible to spread what you have on your fingers any more. then carefully go over the wax applied and spread it as far as it will allow.

no leave it to cure until when you lightly place your finger atop and move to the side and up simultaneously; you feel the top layer is not greasy but harder and with friction. this indicates that the wax is curing on top and bonded to the paint underneath. now buff off with one MF.

regardless, enjoy the wax and thanks for the post