Today was my second shave with a straight and i got feeling confident and shaved my whole face most of it 2 passes some of it 3 and i was really proud of how it turned out (a little rough on the chin still not bbs but good). It was good enough that i did no touch up with my old razor. But i have discovered the worst time ever for someone new, its the time between shaves (i am so excited about my next shave it is not even funny). I can't wait until i can shave again, its nice to look forward to a shave instead of dreading it. I have only done two shaves with my straight now and i think i am hooked!!!! Already shopping for another razor and another strop. As far as hones is the norton 4000/8000 a good place to start when learning how to hone.