Thread: Advice for a new straight shaver

I’ve had a wonderful six month experience with my DE razors about 40 years after switching to carts as a teenager. I got the urge to try a straight so I figured I would make sure to get one that could shave well. I purchased a new Dovo Best 5/8 along with 3” strop from SRD knowing it would be honed by Lynn and ready to go. My first try gave me lots of chatter and sort of “sticking” to my face with little beard reduction. I figured technique and too dry lather (Tabac) were the cause. Mt stropping technique also more than likely leaves something to be desired but I got it down I think though I did nick the strop (not badly) several times over the next few days. I’m getting careful with the angle (only using my good left hand so far), using wetter lather and the results are better but I’m still not really able to get the blade to glide over my face as I see in videos. Because of this I’m a bit concerned that I may have dulled the edge and no longer have a good shave ready razor though it will cut through chest hair (why use an arm? :-) ) midway up its length.

I next purchased the Modular Paddle Strop along with some Crox from SRD which are on the way. I’d like to get my technique down both shaving and stropping but could use some advice. Should I refresh the edge with the diamond spray or Crox? What about getting the razor to glide over my face and make that nice cutting sound I hear in the videos. How do I know when to send it back to SRD for honing?
Thank you all in advance for your suggestions.