I have been at this for about 5 months now, and it has been a fairly smooth ride; but at least once a month I use the DE, I guess as a measuring tool. Now, every shave with the straight gets better, but they still don't compare with my DE shaves. That said, I have about a year more experience with a DE and my straight shaves are exceptional no doubt; but only the cheeks and below my sideburns get nearly as smooth as a DE shave. It makes me wonder if 1) my razors need a touch-up honing, 2) if my stropping technique, which I think is fine, is not so great, or 3) just need a little more time. Just looking for some experienced opinions, hopefully from other former DE shavers. Comfort wise my straight shaves are on par with DE if not better; no burn, bumps or ingrowns. Just can't get the same closeness and smoothness.

Thanks,

JLW