Hey all,

So I purchased a straight online from The Art of Shaving. The straight was brand new out of the box. I was so excited because it is my first straight razor. Well before I did anything with the straight I checked a lot of YouTube videos, and then I found this site. I was flowing with information and was ready for my first shave. Well it was a horrible experience. The blade felt extremely sharp, but was just a pain to use.
I am very mechanically inclined and use my hands every day, so I have great dexterity. Well after doing some more research I find that most blades straight from the factory could use a professional honing. I am going to contact SRD to see if I can have them hone it for me.
Well my excitement did not go away. So I followed the advice of a senior member and just ordered a new blade from SRD. I ordered the Ralf Aust with Rosewood scalesnot 5/8. It looks like a beautiful tool and I can't wait to receive and use it. Especially since all SRD straights are honed before shipping. I will definitely let you know how it turns out. With some photos of that beautiful rosewood!

Vincent the Newbie