Greetings all,
My name is Jim and I too am new to the forum and to Straight Razor Shaving. I have been shaving for for about 28 years, mainly wet shaving but I did start with electrics and then switched to a safety razor in 1985, my Dad used one. I tried his and then got one for myself. In the late 80's I went to the dark side and started using the mass marketed crap and associated blades. I am sick and tired of paying for a bad shave so I want to learn how to use a straight razor.

I already use a brush, mug and soap that I purchased from my barber. I also like to use Pinaud products after shaving. I think I have already made a few mistakes starting out. I bid on and won a Wade and Butcher straight razor Item 310038130709.
Here is the description of the razor.

UP FOR SALE IS A NICE OLD STRAIGHT RAZOR. AS YOU CAN SEE ITS MARKED ON THE SHAFT. ITS ALSO MARKED ON THE BLADE WADE & BUTCHERS CHOICE. IT IS IN EX. COND. THE BLADE HAS NO CRACKS, CHIPS, BREAKS OR RUST CLEAN AND SHARP. THE HANDLE IS A HARD BLACK PLASTIC W/BRASS RIVETS. DOES HAVE A COUPLE MINOR SCUFF MARKS NOTHING MAJOR. IT IS 10" LONG WITH THE BLADE BEING 3" LONG AND 5/8" WIDE. A VERY NICE CLEAN COLLECTABLE SR W/A LOW STARTING PRICE

I paid under $20.00 for it
I also bought a NEW "PROFESSIONAL 20 IN RAZOR Strop or Strap" by Selective Professional Tools
and what I now know was a mistake I bought a Zeepk Straight Razor Hone stone

I want to learn how to hone and sharpen my razor(s) as well as getting a proper shave.

I am looking forward to learning the ins and outs of straight razor shaving and learning about the community.

Thanks,
-Jim