Okay, I know to some of you old timers, this line of questioning may sound a little, well, silly, but as I was told numerous times as a wee young lad, the only stupid question is the one unasked (with various exceptions, of course).

I've done some basic research on straight razor shaving and have become intrigued. I watched youtube videos and maybe it's my middle age coming on, but I've gotta give it a shot. So, I have some questions, having used safety razors (currently the Mach III) since I was in high school. Questions:

1. Regarding the starter straight razors, is it recommended to purchase some relatively inexpensive razors initially, until I figure out what I like (ie, one 5/8 french point, one 5/8 spike point, one 4/8, one 6/8? Or, is it recommended to go ahead and buy a couple of higher quality (ie, wooden handled) razors with the expectation that I'll learn to love them equally over time? Either way, I'm looking at Dovo razors, and understand the need for a quality blade regardless of cost.

2. Regarding the shaving cream/soap, I normally use Edge Shaving Gel with aloe. I haven't seen any mention of that type of shaving lubricant on any forums, so I was wondering if anyone had recommendations whether or not to consider that for use with a straight razor. Also, is Barbasol or similar inexpensive soap acceptable for use, or do I really need to buy a high end ($$$) soap on the Internet on an ongoing basis (or make my own, which I will probably not have time to do)?

3. I just purchased a wooden bowl of Truefitt & Hill Luxury Shaving Soap in a wooden bowl on eBay (new, without the box). How does one go about preparing the soap for use for the first shave (ie, scoop a little on the brush into a cup with a little water and stir around until it's foamy, or put a little water on the brush and stir in the wooden bowl until slightly foamy and then apply to the face? (I've only used the gel type soap for years now and before that, it was the Barbasol type soap).

4. Considering that I may travel for work, are there any problems with my switching periodically from a straight razor back to the Mach III? (Will the straight razor cause my skin to toughen or otherwise affect the feel or ability of the Mach III to perform adequately?) Likewise, does anyone have recommendations for a small profile travel kit (with strop) that I should consider purchasing that could make it through the airport without being confiscated?

5. Has anyone seen Lynn's video in its entirety and do you recommend I purchase it for my viewing pleasure? From the snippets I've seen on the Wiki page it looks top notch, and I can appreciate the professional approach and well-rounded topics--I'm trying to keep my entry costs low, but this looks like it may be a staple item. Lynn definitely seems to be an asset to the Craft. Thoughts?

Thanks,
Mike F.