Thread: Is this an Alright setup?

So, I bought a Wester Bros. De-Fi razor as an ebay special and have been learning a lot and quickly (and expensive) about honing and sharpening. In doing so, this is what I have picked up so far. Norton 4000/8000 combo. Two thiers-issard two sided paddle strops with these pastes: Dovo red (2-3 micron), Dovo Green (6 micron), Diamond paste (1 micron), and some chromium oxide which I assume is .5 micron; and of course, I have my illinois strop #127. Is this enough of a setup to get a decent shave? I can pop hairs pretty well after I finish with the CrO but still can't seem to get a smooth shave. Granted, I have only been shaving for about a week and place most of the finish with my lack of skill. I am worried that, these together won't be enough, or overkill for that matter. What do you think? I appreciate all help guys and love SRP!

Welcome aboard...

The De-Fi's are great little shavers, Now here is something, Max and I both have tons of razors (our own and customer's) to shave with, but we both like these

http://straightrazorpalace.com/364202-post47.html

http://straightrazorpalace.com/364293-post48.html

You actually have way more "Stuff" than you need, if I were you I would go with the 4k/8k and the .50 CrO2 until you get it dialed in, the old KISS principle...

Stay with that and your Linen/Leather strop until you get that razor shaving, they actually hone up fairly easy....

If you have been using the pyramid method and it ain't working try sticking it on the 4k till it pops arm hair then 20-30 light even laps on the 8k

If you haven't been using the pyramid method then try using that...

in other words switch it up... and see what you get...

That first razor is actually the exact razor that I have. I still have a lot of grain left on my face...and going against the grain seems too harsh on my face. How much of technique will get it closer?

Have you shaved with a "Shave Ready" razor yet??? one that was honed by a reputable honemiester???

That's all great stuff. I'd agree with Glen. There's a lot of variables there, so keep it simple to start with. Start including the extra pastes when you've got it cracked with the stone & cr02.
I think the illinois strops take a bit of work before they're up to scratch, so make sure the leather's nice & smooth & supple.

How do I get it to be soft and supple? Do you use non abrasive pastes? Will it become that way more over time?

The only shave ready razor I have used is a DOVO shavette. I always find myself trying to use the Wester Bros. instead

Have a look here. Strop treatment and repair - Straight Razor Place Wiki
It should be all the information you'll need.