I wish I had that code a few days ago. Lol.

First impressions: while I don't have anything to compare it to I'll try my best. The razor is beautiful! Excellent craftsmanship. I rinsed off the blade and was very careful not to touch the blade edge. I made some great lather with Proraso as I use this as my benchmark with all new equipment. Lathered up and got started. I Started off doing just one side of my face as Lynn posted in the beginners forum. As I put the blade up it was a bit awkward just getting used to the maneuvering. My angle was a bit too shallow though and I was able to discovered that using DE's for awhile. A little adjustment and I was off and running. The shave on that side felt good. I was cautious and respectful of the blade. I finished up, washed it off dried it then put it away until I cleaned up with the DE. After my usual post shave routine I policed up the area and got set up to strop the blade before applying the oil that came with the razor. I was very careful with the stropping but did manage to nick the leather very slightly. Did about 30 passes wiped it off then applied oil and put it away.

I can feel the difference on the side of my face with the straight as opposed to the DE. Both are smooth but the straight side is what I an only describe as "buttery" smooth.

Now a few questions. By nicking the strop did I damage the blade? I plan on stropping with the canvas side and leather before tomorrow's shave (can't wait!).

Any thoughts on my progress are appreciated. Thanks.