i am looking into buying my first new razor and i would like some opinions as to which way i should go. first, i am looking into the Dovo Imitation Tortoise Shell, 5/8" Carbon Steel Straight Razor. this seems like a decent entry point; i haven't read anything negative about this razor. the only thing i have really read is that i might want to consider going for the 6/8". alternatively, i am considering buying a 2 day set of JA Henckels 5/8" carbon steel razors. i am considering a 2 day set so that i can use one razor until i feel that it is loosing its edge, and i can switch to the other one that is still shave ready so i can really understand the difference and know the appropriate time to have a razor honed. i also like the idea of having an additional razor once i am know a little more accustomed to straight razor shaving.

another questions i have regards strops. i was thinking of buying a new performa strop, but they don't have the linen strop on the reverse side, and suggest using a paste on the opposite side. i have read that i shouldn't use any pastes since i am new. does anyone have a suggestion as to whether i should go with the performa or another type? i appreicate all of the assistance.