I purchased this razor from "The Art of Shaving". I used it this morning for the first time as it said it was ready for use, but I can tell you it wasn't. As I have found out after reading a few posts here. I did a lot of research on the type of steel to have the blade be made out of, etc., but just assumed the blade would be ready to go. That is my first mistake. At any rate, I also purchased a strop, brush, etc. I did not get a hone, as I didn't realize that I should even have gotten one. Any links to a good one?

Anyway, I shaved my whole face as I received a complimentary shave when I bought my blade. Unfortunately, the lady who did the shave used a replaceable blade and didn't really have any useful information for me on how to strop my blade, other than to keep it flat on the strop and to lead with the back of the blade. I think I have a bad habit of picking up the blade when stropping, rather than just spinning it in my fingers, but it seems to want to slip out that way.

I really want my blade to maintain its edge, and don't want to mess it up, but I would like to learn the proper technique, though from the videos I have watched, it is too hard without actually being there and being walked through the process, and to get myself adjusted from a pro. I live in Cheyenne, WY. I have done several searches for anyone knowing anything about straight razors in my area, but have come up empty handed. Hoping to join a growing community and perhaps get some insight from all of you! Thank you for any direction you can provide!