After 65 years I decided to dive in and give shaving with a straight razor a try. I purchased my first straight razor at Imperial Shave, Medina, OH. Being a novice, I depended on the advice of the proprietor, Dan Addleman.

I left the shop with a Dovo razor, a Straight Razor Designs strop, a badger brush, a mug, soap, and a Lynn Abrams DVD.

I went online and discovered a wealth of information about shaving, honing, stropping, etc..At first I thought, what did I get into here! There is a lot to learn.

I shaved for the first time today (with the straight razor) followed the instructions on the DVD and had a good first experience. I shaved with just my right hand, contrary to what the DVD said. I felt more confident with the right (dominant) hand than trying both hands. I'm sure I'll try the left hand one of these days.

The result was very good. A smoother shave than I expected. I know there is a learning curve on all of this, so I'll be taking it one day at a time.