As I have posted in the past, I have had some problems getting started with the straight razor. For my last posting, it would seem, that my stropping was killing my blade, my shaving technique was way off, and my prep work could have been better.

I would like to take this time in thanking everyone that replied to the postings. I found all posts very helpfull. It is nice to find a support group for this new hobby.

From the last post. I was killing my blade with my stropping. I found that my strop was no tin the best of conditions. It had many high and low spots. I took care of that with a little stoning. It rought it up a little but after some rubbing it feels pretty good.
As for my blade, it was looking like I would need a re-hone, I had asked Lynn, and had posted about using a Franz swaty stone I had picked up to touch up the blade. It was reconmened to try a couple strokes on teh swaty. I ran a couple of strokes on the swaty, and stropped with the re-conditioned strop. Taking my time, slowly using only the weight of the blade. Ran about 50 to 60 strokes. Looking at the blade, the edge looked like a mirror. So at this time I don't think I need a re-hone, but now I am looking at antiuge stores and flle markets for older razors so I will most likely need a honing service in the near future. I now have a Boker Red Injun that I am trying to re-condition.

As for prep work. After washing my face, I use the hot towel, and start on the lather. I have recieved my Mama Bear soap the same day I put the stone to my blade, and tweeked the strop. I had bought Vanilla Musk, and Marauder's Citrus. The Vanilla Musk smells awesome. It makes my want to put on my kilt, go out drinking, and get in a fight. I think I'll save this one for special occasions. The Marauder's Citrus is like a slash of bay rum with a twist of tangerine, and is now my daily shave soap. I cant get a realy good lather even with just a boar brush. I think I will bite the bullet and invest in a good badger brush in the next few weeks.

As for technique, I was not streching my face tight enough. I am also training my left hand for the left side shave.

This last shave there was very little pulling, and the only issue I had was from the left hand. Gave myself a real nice slice right next to the corner of my mouth. Chicks dig scars and kilts, right? Even with the cut I and very pleased with how this is going. I still need a lot of practice, to move slower, and take my time. Too bad my beard grows so slowly.

So untill next time. Thank you for all the support.