I have a point to bring up that might help myself and other newbs diving into the world of staight razor shaving. I hope some senior members (and experienced newbs alike) will see this thread to help us out. It seems that every now and then a member will recommend that a newb is better off NOT stropping before a FIRST shave to avoid rolling a good blade. Then others will chime in to say that this is not a good practice at all. I think that this can be a little overwhelming to new members who are trying to do things right from the beginning.

First, I don't disagree with the fact that we all want as sharp a blade as possible. If not stropping the first time provides a good first shave then so be it. However, if PROPER stropping really makes or breaks a good shave (along with a properly honed edge, prep, technique etc) due to realignment, corrosion removal etc then should we not concentrate on good stropping technique right from the beginning?
I think in some regards newbs are scared about stropping for the first time. We read horror stories about guys rolling edges, requiring immediate honing services after one or two shaves. We hear the cautions from senior members warning us of how easy it is to do. So where are people going wrong? Is it from over eager guys thinking it's easy and going for broke? Is it from guys being over cautious and doing an ineffectual job? A good in-depth stropping technique topic would be great for the WIKI.

Second, and I hope this isn't too controversial, is the question of how "shave ready" a blade is. I think that if a blade is advertised as "shave ready" in the classifieds then most newbs will think it is perfect. Everyone has their opinion of what "shave ready" means. Not everyone will hone to perfection like Lynn, Don, Glen or others who have been doing this for years. If Lynn honed my razor and says it does not have to be stropped I WILL take this for granted. However if another member advertises his blade as "shave ready" and his skills aren't exactly up to par (will shave but not optimum - no offence) should we as newbs still avoid stropping for the first time?

Please excuse my long ramblings on this subject. I'm interested in seeing the responses on this so we can (hopefully) put some closure on this issue.

Regards,

Ryan