I bought that same strop last week and it is working great for me! I have read where the hairs on that brush will fall out. I too have a couple of cheap brushes to get me started on. Make sure you wipe the blade off well when you finish and use some folded paper towel to dry out the inside of the scales. That will help keep moisture away from the blade. I have read where some guys use a light weight oil or some razor oil on their blades. I also use a alcohol wipe to go over the blade and jimps with. Also strop after you shave. That helps remove any residual water and what not. And yes there is a lot of nice people on this site!