Thread: newbie with a bit of past history but needs help!

Hi Stan,
I don't much like the look of that razor. I think Cyril Salters are rebranded Dovos so should be ok but it won't come shave-ready so, as you say, a practice razor might not be a bad idea.
I suspect you should have a good idea of how a razor should feel if you're used to the shavette but a prehoned one's a good bet to start off with. I initially started by sharpening one I got in a junk shop many years ago which was satisfying but I paid in blood and pain for that.
This one might be a nice starter although you may find a bigger blade suits you better. Horses for courses.
The 12000 stone (and a strop of course) should be fine for keeping it in shape.
Good luck!