Well, my new razors arrived today, a TI Sparticus and a Dovo Forestor. I opted to go with the TI as it was from Invisible Edge in the UK and had been 'hair tested?' whilst the Dovo was not even opened from the factory.
So on the assumption that the TI could be trusted that's the one I used. I prepped using lots of water on my face over 3 mins or so and then applied Trufitt & Hills pre shave oil and then lathered up with Taylor's of Bond Street sensitive shaving cream with my new Silver Haired Badger Brush.
The shave was not as smooth as I had expected but I managed the two cheeks with only one tiny nick. Overall I was pleased with the result, I may have been putting too little pressure on the blade and using a very shallow angle, could that have caused the slight tugging? Also I suspect my lather may have been a little on the dry side, it looked like thick whipped cream.
I can see that I've just started I a huge learning curve with so much to learn, but at least I've got my first shave under my belt!
Ive also post stropped the blade but was very tentative as I'm terrified of damaging the edge, using the TI paddle strop.
I know its going to take time but I Guess I'm the impatient type who wants great results immediately. Note to self "everything will be good in the fullness of time"
Gentlemen I am hooked and can't wait to be good enough to throw my cartridge razor out.