I too bought a straight (cheap one) and tried to shave with it, tried to hone it, and came here looking for someone to send it to to hone. Mine turned out to be a dud. I ended up buying a razor from a fellow member and have been shaving with it ever since.

Don't be afraid to buy from a member here or take one up on their offers. Everyone I've dealt with has been a great help.

Make sure to checkout the whole prep ritual and use a good soap when you try to actually shave.

I have one razor that was sold as shave ready and will shave arm hair but was hell on the face. I didn't try a hht, but did the shave test, and continue to do it after stropping the razor, have to say it makes a difference each time I strop it gets better. I think it still needs a pass on a good finish hone, but I'm working it best I know how. Only one way to learn, right.

Good luck and welcome to the forum.