WELCOME TADAMSDE!!! Its good to have you here at SRP and in the world of straight shaving! Feels pretty good getting that first shave with a razor you honed yourself?! Listen to the other guys though. Honing does take alot of practice to get it right. It's not rocket science by any means, but a razor that isn't honed correctly can lead to a less than enjoyable shave. Take your time and learn to use the razor for a month or two. Then start on the honing if you want. That's what I've done and I am very happy with the results! But do what is best for you. Your the only one who knows what that is. Take what you need from here and you'll spend some of the most enjoyable time's shaving! Well, there is one other thing more enjoyable than shaving with a straight and everyone will agree with me on that I believe! Good Luck and once again WELCOME!