Hi all, I'm another noob with lots of question. Yes, I have done research but until I found this site Ive been wondering thru numerous websites and am glad to have found one with all the info in one place. Ill try to ask my question in a clear and concise fashion:

1. Is there a particular razor that stands out as far as durability and functionality? Im looking at DOVO since I like german made items and they seem to have a wide variety of styles/prices.

2. What is the difference in strops? Again I was looking at DOVO strops and saw they have 35-80$ strops? What is the difference in them? Will a 35 dollar strop work as well as the 80 dollar one?

3. Brushes. Whats up with them. There is a huge price variation between them (anywhere from 2-300+ dollars). I have heard so much good things about badger brushes that Id like to get one. The one I was eyeballing is a 35 dollar Vulfix badger brush. SO what is the difference between the 35 dollar Vulfix and the 400 dollar Rooney shaving brush?

4. When honing- what do you prefer (grit wise?) I have heard various options about this and most conflict with each other. Will the 12000 grit sharpen well or is it mainly for polishing?

5. Is strop paste necessary? Can I just strop before and after each shave with out the paste and use a stone for sharpening as needed?

6. Cream or soap? what do you prefer and why? Ive never used either (besides the aerosol cream) and wonder what is the main difference.

7. what size blade do you prefer and why?

Thats all I can think of for now
Thanks
Robert