Pop the line out before the end of the shrink tube
yes it’s a pain to do but it works better
im sure I used to do miles better years ago using a proper line aligned set up
When I used to tie flies we were taught to ping the hook in the vice before tying on them
if it sounded dull throw the hook away and don’t waste time
they were always the weak ones and it surprising how many are weak when you ping them
I think it depends on what kind of leader you are doing as to what knot
leadcore or unleaded I will use a nail/needle knot
shock leader knot will be a mahin knot