... how to shave with cartridge razors? You weren't expecting that question were you?

Reason I'm asking is that it's often pointed out that there's a steep learning curve for using a straight razor. But think back. When you first tried a cartridge razor, did you get a good shave? Was it comfortable? Did you cut yourself? Were you scared of the blade(s)?

How much practice did it take you to get a truly stubble-free and comfortable shave? (If you even reached that stage at all.)

Looking back, it probably took me years to get a good shave with cartridge systems, and maybe 20 years to get what I'd call perfect results (I had to wait until shaving oils came into existence).

Seems to me we place too much emphasis on the learning curve for straights. Clearly it is there, but relatively speaking it isn't that bad.

And if we started using straights as fresh-faced teenagers with nothing but bumfluff to lift off our cheeks, I bet we'd be wondering what all the fuss is about.