I did it !

So I've been straight razor shaving since the middle of april. I've aquire plenty of second hand razors and one new one. Had 4 of the used ones shipped off to be pro honed. The new one was pro honed and shave ready when I bought it. So anyways my favorite vintage a 5/8 beau brummel was starting to tug a bit. I had maintained it with crox and stropping but thought it was time to give it a go on my naniwa 12k. The first couple of attempts didn't seem to do much of anything. Well then I taped it and ran it over the hone. Bingo ! I had my best shave yet. Bbs on chin and cheeks, the neck was okay but better than my average. Can't wait to get my zulu grey and see what that will do. So my shaves seem to be getting better and can't help but wonder what another few months will do !

Congratulations!! It feels so good the first time you hone successfully and only gets better and better. I am assuming it was initially honed without tape? If so that means you have added a micro-bevel to the edge, which often times helps beginner honers really nail that finished edge. Oh man in a few months with constant practice honing becomes so much easier...I remember the moment of being like "Whoa I can zip through honing finally" it's wonderful. Keep up the great work and I hope you like the ZG. I love mine and once I figured out my routine it has been an excellent finisher.

It certainly is a great feeling when it all starts to come together.

Aa1192- no it was pro honed and he used tape. I had just forgotten that little but important fact. It really hindered my first two attempts to refresh that razor! Yea it really feels good to feel and see results gleaned from the kind folks here that share their knowledge. I'm sure without this forum I would have gave up along time ago.

I am looking forward to honing for the first time. I just need to wait till my razor needs it. I hope it goes as well for me

great job, good for you.