I think what you guys have said about beard prep is true. I don't really HAVE any prep. I soak a face cloth in hot water and then apply.

Main issue however seems to be my lathering, that you so much Alraz, for the lather links. I thought I had watched the mantis videos and knew how to lather - guess not.

So this is a progress report. Completed my second shave today. Did strictly WTG and some touchups (couldn't stop myself). Again no beard prep. But using the tip of putting water in my mug and lathering there (i had been lathering on the puck all these months) I THINK I generated cream, if not it was a "good enough" foam.

Slight razor burn setting in on the right side of my adam's apple, but no more than I would expect. And two nicks that aren't bleeding at all, more just scratches on my left cheek from the square point.

I left some stubble, as I felt aiming for perfection was beyond me, and am really happy with the progress made.