I'm fairly new to SR8 razor shaving (3 weeks into it). I have a few comments and a question or two.

- First, I bought a brand new Thiers-Issard Sheffield razor. Although the documentation says it's supposed to be shave ready, I'm experiencing some drag. It's hard to tell whether I've dulled the edge due to poor stropping technique the first few times or whether it simply needed to be honed out the box. Not sure how much damage poor stroping technique can do, so I've decided to order some Norton wet stones (despite the girlish "rants and raves" in the Reviews space) and hone it myself. I suspect that a pyramid honing should sharpen things up. Any comments or words of advice are appreciated.

- Second, I bought a Thiers-Issard stropping paddle and I'm not sure I like it. It feels too "short". Anyone else have that going on? I think I should have went with a traditional hanging strop.

- Third, I bought Lynn's instructional DVD, which is a must-have for newbies. Before you buy anything or get too far down the path, watch this DVD. You won't regret it.

- Fourth, I have a pretty thick beard. Should a three day beard cause a ton of drag/pulling (after a long, hot shower and brisk silvertip brushing/lather)? My guess is not. The conclusion I keep coming up with is that my "brand new" razor needs to be honed. Am I off base?

Anyhow, your input is appreciated. And this straight razor stuff really is cool. I used to hate shaving and now I actually look forward to it. I'm digging it -- just need to work out a few kinks.