Yesterday I completed a three-pass shave injury-free. It's the first time since I started using a straight and As a newbie I'm attempting to (a) learn how to strop properly, (b) grip the razor properly, and (c) not end up looking like rabid weasels ate my face, all at the same time. So many variables, so many opportunities for "lessons" in technique. I actually don't mind the flesh wounds; I have a pretty high pain tolerance and don't care what other people think when they see my face. Still, it's nice to have my wife caress my jaw and say, "Ooh--smooth!"

When all the variables work together and my face ends up silky-smooth, it's one of the finest feelings in the world. Makes me walk a little taller, head held up a little higher.