The title says it all guys. My computer went down back in late November (went into SRP withdrawl) and the only SRP I got was a quick scan every now and then at work. Anyway, back in November I still had yet to have my first straight razor shave and was still without a strop. Now I have my Tony Miller 3" latigo (courtesy of John over at the Shaving Shop) and my trusty Dubl Duck Satinedge and I'm five shaves in and loving it! Here's a quick breakdown of my progress thus far:

First shave - still didn't have my strop yet, but my Duck came pre-honed from the member I bought it from, so I shaved anyway. Started with Lynn's advice - sideburn area first, then to full cheeks. Got a little carried away and attempted some of my neck as well, then finished with the ol' Mock 3. Shaved areas were acceptable, NO CUTS!!!!.

Second shave - strop arrived before Christmas, and the wife let me have it early. Stropped for the first time (!), then did cheeks, pretty much all of my neck and attempted my chin. I couldn't manage my upper lip and most of my chin, so went back to the Gillette. Still no cuts.

Third shave - Christmas day....... had to look good for the family and.......SUCCESS! Bound and determined, I took my time and did my entire face. A very reasonable shave indeed. The look on my family members faces when I told them I shaved with a straight that morning was priceless. A true breakthrough.

Fourth shave - entire face again, and a little smoother. One tiny nick, but in my defence I think it was a zit.

Fifth shave - this past weekend. My first attempt at a true multi-pass shave. Let me say it was damn near BBS in all areas.

I have to say that taking my time is the true secret to this old art. With five shaves and pretty much zero cuts (no BS - honestly) I am truly enjoying this whole endeavor. Even the stropping has gone remarkably well - haven't rolled an edge yet, and only put one tiny nick near the handle. In conclusion, It's fantastic. Although my technique still isn't perfect, straight razor shave feels very comfortable - dare I say natural? Next challenge.................HONING!!

Regards,

Ryan