Hello all,

Been shaving for a while now with a Dovo Shavette. Getting better and better at it. Things I do like about the shavette are no need for maintenance and low cost. The things I don't like though are blade length (I'm using half of a DE blade), the lack of forgiveness in the disposable blade, and it lack of any weight or solid feeling. I think it's time to upgrade to a real straight razor. I already own soap/mug, brush, aftershave, septic pencil, holders, etc, etc.... and am well versed in their use.

I want to get something that is quality and shave ready so I have a standard to set once I do start having to maintain a blade. Most likely going to make a purchase through SRD. The first thing I am looking to purchase is the Lynn Adams Modular Paddle strop. Correct me if I am wrong, but it seems like this setup comes with mostly everything I will need to maintain the blade between honing. Then for a first blade I am looking at the Dovo Astrale (I like the way it looks and the ebony scales), or the Ralf Aust 5/8". Both of which are offered on SRD, so I am sure you know about them coming shave ready and a free honing service.

After I get comfortable with that I want to start looking into some stones. Thinking about the Naniwa 12k with a lapping stone to start, then start working my way down in grit from there so I can eventually do all my own honing. Once I fully grasp honing on my own I would like to start grabbing some antique and higher quality/more fancy blades.

Does this sound like a solid plan of action? Am I headed in the right direction here? Any thoughts, comments, concerns, or advice are more than welcome.