So, a couple of years ago my wife bought me what looks like a nice straight razor and all the other equipment I needed. When I tried to use it the first time, it just felt like it was ripping through the hair on my face, so I figured it wasn't shave ready. I put it down, meaning to get it professionally honed so I could try again. Well, fast forward 2 years. I took it to one of those cutlery places in the mall to get sharpened. Apparently they sent it out to someplace. So, about 15 minutes ago I try it out. Same thing. Can't even cut through about half an inch of light beard without feeling like I'm ripping out the hair. I tried different angles, etc... but it just doesn't seem sharp. I'm wondering if the place I took it to even did anything. I tried the hanging hair test and the results weren't good. Is there a better way to test for sharpness?

Any thoughts? I'm contemplating just giving up for good, which is very disappointing.

Thanks,
Matt