How long should a quality pro-honed razor's (Thiers-Issard "Le Grelot") edge last with only stropping before more measures (i.e. pasted strop/high grit stone) are usually necessary? Consider novice user with almost daily use and avg. beard.

I have been advised that the razor likely won't need to be re-honed until about 2 months of use. I have been at it for just under (2) weeks so I think I'm alright with just stropping for now. However, I want to have the appropriate gear on hand to keep shaving lest I have to return to that loathsome Gillette.

I know that there are differences in opinions, but for the novice is it generally recommended to get a 4k/8k Norton combo stone or a Chinese 12k to freshen up the razor? I have no present intention of fixing up antiques or ebaying and for the time being intend to leave the real honing to the pros if required.

So far so good Gentlemen, I haven't lost an ear or too much blood and truly enjoy the process and result. My grandfather and great-grandfather were old time barbers with a shop in Queens, NY...too bad I never got the opportunity to learn the techniques from them. Thanks for your wisdom.