So I'm new at this, and have been getting progressively more discouraged. I've been shaving with a straight for about two weeks. In that time, I managed a ton of nicks and one relatively impressive slice. That last one laughed at the styptic I tried to use to stop the bleeding, but I figure that's ok, because I've heard that chicks dig scars. . .
I sent off some razors to be honed (thanks, Lynn!) and they came back scary sharp. Still, though, I couldn't get a decent shave. I worked on my technique, trying to get just the right angle of attack, just the right pressure, etc. I worked on my lather, trying to make uberlather like is shown in the videos. Ultimately, I would end each session thinking I should touch up a few areas with my gillette fission and its 5 uniformly dull blades.
Until this morning.
This morning I spent a bit more time thinking about beard prep. I shave in the morning, just after showering. This morning, I washed the face twice in the shower. Without drying off, I immediately threw a hot towel on my face. Then I lathered my face, and stropped the razor I planned to use. After stropping a bit, I refreshed my hot towel and again applied it to my face, relathered, and presto - a great shave. This morning there was no skin irritation, no pulling of the hairs, it just clicked.
I'm hooked. Thanks to all at SRP for helping make this happen.
Brian