Looks like I'm getting the hang of this. My with the grain pass is smooth, and quick. I have slowly been trying the cross grain pass, and it is getting better. First few attemps, were not so good. Re-lather and go for it. I end up with a lot trying to get my angle, several niks, pulling/irritation, and minor bleeding.

I found it to work a little better if after the WTG to later up with some warm lather, re-strop, and go slow on the cross grain. My cheeks I have no problem with now. Smooth and nik free. My neck is another story. the lower parts are pretty easy, but getting up toward my jaw the blade wants to hesitate. Now once the blade hesitates I stop, remove the blade, and start again.

I would have to say each shave is getting better. Some day I will try against the grain, but not for a while. My face needs to get used to this new pass first.

Arthur