Hi all,
I've been reading occasionally on this forum for a while now, but just decided to make an account.

For a bit of background, I got introduced unknowingly to the approximate world of straight razors while living and traveling out of the country for a while in places where people have no idea how to shave for themselves (places like Turkey and the Middle East). A couple of times a week I would swing by the barber and get a quick shave (for a dollar or so). Always included a massage and a coffee, so it became my personal therapy. Somewhere along the way I bought a cheap shavette style razor and tucked it away.

After moving back stateside I decided to pull the razor out and use it as a way to reconnect with some great memories. Now, several years later, I've realized it's something I genuinely enjoy and am thinking about investing a bit more in it.

My first question is whether a straight razor would work for my shaving style. I have found that I See less irritation when I avoid creams and just use oil and a bit of hot water (in the trend of Pakistani barbers who just splash some cold water and maybe a bit of liquid dettol on your face and get to it). Is this something that would be complicated in any way with a straight razor? I also have a tendency to do a dry pass to get it closer. The shavette blades sometimes leave me with a couple of little spots of blood (though no cuts). Would a straight razor help in any way? I know part of it is just sensitive skin, but I'm wondering about the added weight and a blade I know isn't barbed or anything.

I would be buying a razor as a bit of a present to myself, so I do want something new, but don't want to spend more than $100-150ish. It seems like all of the current companies have options in this range, and feedback looks to be the same for all of them. Are there any real differences beyond aesthetics? Any clear favorites between the Boker King Cutter, Thiers-Issard Le Dandy or Special Coiffeur, Dovo Best Quality, or the 5/8 Ralf Aust (aka what's currently available at SRD)?

Thanks in advance!