IME it takes time and practice to discover the optimum angle and stroke for each area of your face but over time it all falls into place. I've been shaving, not exclusively, with a straight since May 2010 and still I'm improving, I get a very close shave now but its never quite BBS. That said BBS is IMHO not something to go all out for, whiskers will always grow back and trying too hard can lead to irritation. If it happens then alls good but if it doesn't then that's no big deal either.