The razor was purchased from the Straight Razor Designs website and I asked that it be initially stropped by Lynn Abrams. I'm assuming it is as sharp as it will get and received other feedback that just because a razor doesn't pass the HHT it doesn't necessarily mean it's not sharp. I did view Lynn's DVD and other Youtube videos, which I found extremely helpful prior to giving it a try. Bottom line is I'll take it slowly and work on my angles and pressure.