Hey everyone, I'm 19 and just recently have gotten into straight razors. After a lot of research and lurking on this site and reading threads I finally gave into buying one. I just got this DOVO razor from a craigslist deal its never been used and he let it go to me for $60 bucks. Wasn't gonna argue with that for a razor i saw at the art of shaving for 175 bucks.

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I have a few basic questions... :

My most important question is: Is the razor shave ready?

If it's not, do I need to hone it first ? Or do I only need to strop it before the first use?

Do I need to use strop paste?

What is the best kind of strop to get? Horsehide or Cowhide? Linen and Leather? Or just Leather?

Are paddle strops better than the hanging strops?

When I do get it honed, what kind of grit do I use ?