Been straight shaving for a little while on grandads old top flight. Had a retired barber friend run it across a barbers hone for me and then i stropped and shaved with it. The shaves were not very pleasant, but I still enjoyed the experience of the straight. Couple of days ago i talked myself into buying a new DOVO 5/8 full hollow which was made shave ready by a reputable vendor. This morning i lathered up my current cream, TOBS Eaton College, stropped the DOVO, and put blade to skin. WOW!!! Now i know what shave ready means, and i know the absolute pleasure of a truly comfortable shave from a properly prepared blade. I still have a lot to learn, but i am addicted now, no turning back!! Thanks for letting me share and for all of the great tips I've learned by lurking!!