Just had my first shave with a Solingen straight razor bought from ebay. Bought it some time ago, but was waiting to get a strop before I used it, and recently got a travel strop paddle type from ebay.
Anyway, what a nerve wracking experience. Gave myself a shave (very very carefully) and it's as good as the normal double edged safety razor I usually use. I fully expect it to surpass the double edge once I've become more proficient and less nervous.
One slight nick in the form of a horizontal line across my left cheek where I was defining the edge of my sideburn, but I will wearthe nick as a badge of honour :)
Jonesy
P.S. I'm Hooked!