G'day gents,

I have made the progression from the Mach3 to the Merkur DE and am now the owner of a TI 4/8" straight razor. I had this blade sharpened by Lynn and have watched his video several times.

Apparently I have messed up the blade when I stropped it the first time although I don't quite know how I did that. So I thought no problem, I have the Norton 4000/8000 stone, a Dovo strop (linen/leather) and TI strop paste.

I made three passes on the 4000 trying to keep the blade as flat as possible and with no downward pressure following the x-pattern. Followed by 3 passes on 8000, 1 on 4000, 3 on 8000, 1 on 4000 and five on 8000. I then strop the blade 30 strokes on the linen side and 30 on the leather. The blade is still not sharp enough to shave with. It hangs up and will not pass the cut a hair test.

So what am I doing wrong??? Is there a step I'm missing? At this rate I'll ruin a good blade and my face as well.

Thanks,

Rich