Boy, you guys are great! This was my first post here and the responses were overwhelming. You gave me so much info that I have to take a few minutes to digest all of it.

For starters let me clarify my inclinations. No doubt I will want to acquire a quality blade. Before today I narrowed the choices to DOVO or Thiers-Issard. Then I learned about Bill Ellis. Unfortunately, he sold 98% of his stock so there's not much available there. Next, the name Maestro was mentioned. I would gladly look him up if I knew who he is and how to find him. I started by asking about hones because I read somewhere that even a new DOVO or T-I does not arrive shave ready. So I assumed I would have to hone the new blade or send it to someone to hone it for me. So my next question is just how much work is needed to get a new quality high carbon steel blade ready for first use?

Let me clarify one important point about my intentions. I'm not interested in restoring blades as a hobby. I will, however, devote enough time to keeping my razor as sharp as possible for the closest possible shave. To do so I've learned that I need to strop before each shave. Therefore, I will have to buy a quality strop. Two members mentioned that Tony sells strops. Please tell me how to view his selection. So, as for honing, I am only interested in that twice a year touch up job I read is necessary. My concept then as of this minute is to use a cloth/leather strop before each shave and honing the razor about twice a year with a Norton. Does this sound about right? Other replies suggested pasted strops. Is that really necessary? Once again, your replies have given me a lot of food for thought. I'll digest it all and then come back for more. Thanks very much.

Duke