Hello all

I am very new to the straight razor scene and so far i am enjoying it. I figured i might as well introduce myself to this group since this group has provided me with so much useful information. I'm a 19 (gonna turn 20 in June) pre-med student who has been shaving since 5th grade.

I stumbled upon this site hours after i purchased my first straight razor that a friend suggested (strictly due to the price). It was a cheap, made in pakistan <$10 razor. It was very dull and even after becoming sharp, only stayed sharp for a few strokes (i do have a thick beard but i am betting on the cheap quality). I realize that it is a terrible buy but i was wondering if i should even attempt to try an put a good edge on it or just buy a quality razor.

I do own a decent strop now, and am looking to purchase a better razor. I was looking at the DOVO 5/8 ebony spike point and the bismarck. Any suggestions?

Sorry to be so long winded but i have one more question. Does anyone have any tips for shaving around a protrusive adam's apple? I haven't been able to get a good shave there with the straight due to the fear of slicing myself since its a crappy blade. I usually just clean that area up with my mach3.

Thanks for all the information already up on the site, it has been very useful.