I consider myself a late-stage newby, finally getting the hang of the whole str8 routine. A few months ago I bought a Boker Edelweiss. That I have never gotten a decent shave from this razor I attribute to my then-extreme newbyness, lousy technique, lousy stropping, inadequate prep. etc. I laid the Boker aside, and eventually improved my overall shave experience using other razors. Anyway, I just got the Boker back from being honed at Straight Razor Designs and WOW! I just got the smoothest, best shave ever! No pulling with no pressure, just a smooth glide all the way. I'm psyched!