Hello everyone. It's my first day as a member, but I've lurked the site for a bit, so I think I should start with thanking the members here for the useful information that I've read over the past few weeks and months.

Anyway, I began using a straight after deciding to ditch expensive multi-bladed cartridges a few months ago. I didn't want to make a big investment at first, so I bought a Parker SR1 disposable with 120 blades for $20, figuring it would be a good way to test if straight razor shaving was for me. Now, after using it a while, I feel that I've gotten over the initial learning curve. I'm getting baby's-bottom smooth shaves on my cheeks and chin, and nearly baby's bottom smooth on my neck (although my neck hair grows from left to right, so it's probably impossible to go 100% smooth there). I've also stopped butchering my face, which is a definite improvement from my first few shaves.

That said, I still do get a few nicks with each shave, and some of the more sensitive areas around my mouth are still difficult and a bit uncomfortable. I'm wondering if making a bigger investment in a quality, traditional straight razor would help improve things? The disposable did its job for $20, but if traditional blades are better for smoothness and ease of use, then it might be time for me to upgrade.

Thanks in advance for any advice!