Hi all,
I am currently shaving with a DE and getting good results - far better than with a M3 anyway. I have been shaving with one for about 6 months but have always contimplated straights. I really like the idea of shaving with a straight, especially if I can get a closer shave with one. However I have a few questions;

1) I appreciate it may take a few months to learn and am happy to wait and reach the goal of shaving with a straight, however how dangerous is it actually? I know this may sound stupid to many of you who are now proficient but are injuries above the odd nick/weeper common. I have seen a few videos on youtube a a number of experienced shavers (or so it looks so) seemed to nick themselves (maybe to do with shaving long beards off fairly quickly), so is this common. I have never nicked myself with a DE, and took it up very quickly, so providing I spend the time and effort with straights and take it slow, are nicks and weepers the most of my worries?

2) Can you shave with a straight in the same tie that you can a DE when fully proficient?

3) Is this a good beginner razor i.e. if I look after it will it last me at least 5 years?

Dovo Razors - first one on the list!

4) I am right in saying all I need to start is a razor and a strop and lots of information (I already have a couple of brushes, soaps, creams etc.) and the honing business will come later?

5) How long will a razor last before it needs to be honed?

6) Should you use two hands? As I shave well with a DE with just my right - will this have to change?

Sorry for the essay! I just need a few answers to these questions and I can see myself wondering why I even questioned the jump a year down the line. I know I am asking a biased audience, but does straight shaving really give better results, and safely (If you take your time to learn).

Thanks alot...

Newstraight