Hi guys,

I have a problem and wander if you can offer some advice (constructive

I have a Stainless steel 5/8 Dovo Inox that was properly honed by a pro. A Tony Miller Latigo strop, pasted strops with red dovo, black dovo and CRo. I have a yellow coticle, and a blue and some diamond pastes on glass sheets and newspaper. I have some great soaps, brushes and creams etc.

I really enjoy my shaving with the DE and get great results and have tried shaving with a straight for nearly a year. I can get my razor to cut the bristles, but its still not silky smooth and I always end up with some irritation particularly if I try to go against the grain. I cannot tell you how long I spend trying to hone the razor to a smooth finish, or how long I spend reading this and Badger Blade forums.

Is is possible to get a BBS shave that is the same as I get from my DE with minimal irritation.

Secondly, do you think a different razor is the answer.

I am sure others have found themselves in the same predicament, how did you deal with it. Was there a time when you held up your hands in defeat and said "enough is enough" or how did you overcome it.

I am nearly at the defeat stage and need some inspiration.................... this is like a driving test that I just can't pass.

regards