I just began to get into the world of straight razors. I just got my first real straight blade recently. I was using a barber style one before that had a disposable blade in it. Of worked great giving me an awesome close shave (which I've never had before) but I have been told a real blade is better so, following the advice here, I bought one on eBay. I didn't know they weren't shave ready. I found a business in my neighborhood who will hone it for ten bucks but I was wonder if I could make it shave ready at home, and how do I keep well maintained. I am used to keeping knives in great condition ( I cook for a living and have a few Japanese knives that take a lot of attention.) Like I said I was using a barber blade so I don't have a strop, I do have a very fine ceramic stone and one low grit one good for German knives and tools. If anyone has advice it would be so appreciate. Thank you.