I don't have anything to add other than to say, the beauty of straight razor shaving, and the reason I never get tired of it is due to the variables involved, and the superior results when you master it. All the advice offered is valid.

I had every problem you had, tried everything, and nothing worked. Then gradually the same things that didn't work before started working.

I can promise you that you'll master it if you keep trying.

The difference between a cart and a straight is like the difference between instant coffee and gourmet coffee.