There is another side to that coin, Obie.
but before reveal it; thank you for taking the time to start this thread and post your experiences and feelings. I will learn much from you and others in this straight razor journey.
I'm 50 years old, new to razors, but not to life. So here's why I "Run".
It give me immense pleasure to occupy my time hunting and buying straight razors.
When I was young, it was women. I was no Don Johnson, but not far from it , in a target rich environment. What slowed me down was not reflecting on the bad ones that I should have left alone; it is the fact that I can no longer catch'em like I used to.
In regards to straights; I really don't care about the quality or condition, to a certain point. Of course I have had no desire to buy current production straights from China or Pakistan; sold locally in flea markets and knife shows.
The only thing that limits me is money. I only can dedicate so much each month.
I bought "13" razors this month; one from the "Master" in Vegas and the other from members and antique malls. Two are under refurbish and the others were honed and shaved with. They have been stored and I probably won't slow down to use them ever again. I'm too busy hunting the next shave.
I've never jumped into any endeavor at 50%, even when wiser men warned me. Maybe that makes me a fool? There will come a time in the near future when I will probably not be able to use a straight without too much bloodshed due to a shaky hand or I will forget where the hell I put it. I also doubt the retirement home will allow me to have one, let alone my collection. My son might use one, or flood the Ebay with all my hastily gotten goods.
I hope many people take your advice and slow down. I hope they really consider whether the razor they are pondering, is right for them. This will give me the opportunity to catch up with them and take it first.
Right now I have found something that I can pursue with all my efforts; for me it is all about the "Run"; not really the razor.