I also had the same problems when starting out. I also sent the razor out for rehoning because it did not feel shap. When it came back I was getting the same results. This was frustrating but it also told me that it must be my technique so I keep reading and trying different things. Well I am about 15-20 shave into it and I am getting great shaves now. Close shaves with almost no irratation so don't lose hope you will get it. Don't forget the basics and listen to these guys advice, they no what they are talking about.