My stripping progress was slow going too. I couldn't find the Citistrip where I am, so I went with Super Remover found here:
https://www.homedepot.ca/en/home/p.super-remover---1-l.1000122801.html
It got the bulk of the paint off of the front and the back, took about 5 applications though. The back was harder than front, I eventually got frustrated and used a sanding disk attached to my Dremel to take off the stubborn parts, which left some imperfections in the finish on the back, so I don't recommend that. My best advice would probably be "Be patient, it will come in time." If there are tiny sections of stubborn paint, I'd suggest hand sanding over power sanding, it will look better in the end.