Okay. I stropped the razor for the first time tonight. Actually easier to do than with my practice razor as that one if very heavy.

Not much of a difference noted -- only my third partial shave -- but I doubt I did any harm as the razor feels as good as it did when new. Strop tight razor light, making sure to cover the entire blade and not lifting the spine.

Funny observation, however. I'm using a Bic Advantage to finish off, and I'm now getting more nics and cuts with it -- fifth day of use. Not one cut or nick with the straight. It's easy to see how, once you get the hang of it, the straight blade will save you lots of money over the long haul.

So far multiple passes in the same direction, WTG, are giving me a slightly closer shave. If I can shave the rest of my face this close it will be good enough for public viewing, but not as close as I'd like. Also, not increasing the pressure and still changing hands from right to left.

Thanks again for all the help.