I was really excited and bought my first straight a couple of weeks ago, a second hand Thiers Issard that looked practically new and has awesome bovine scales. Following the recommendations of this group, I took it to get honed and was surprised when he pointed out there was an ever-so-slight bend in the spine. I struggled to see it, but when he showed it to me closely it's now obvious to me. He was able to make it shave ready, but had to hone it slightly off to accommodate the spine.

Not it the start I was hoping for. I plan to give it a try tomorrow to see how it goes. No going back now since I can't afford another razor!