Yeah, what tekbow said, I never use the HHT, after all, I don't want to use a razor to cut hanging hairs, I want to use it to cut hairs on my face :-)

Issue may be, as you stated, stropping technique. Unless you want to 'rely' on someone else honing your razor, you really will need to buy a hone (Norton 4/8 and a Shapton 16k is what I use). It's really not THAT hard to learn to hone. You may also need another 'reference' razor, so you can compare your razor pre andpost honing. You may be able to borrow a mate's razor to use as a reference.

Also, check your prep and lather. Is it a good lather? Is your beard well prepped? Do you need to use a pre-shave cream, if you don't already sue one (I always use Proraso). People's beards do differ, you aleardy know that just by LOOKING at other people. Now I'm 'in to' SR shavign when I see some guys on TV etc I almost shudder to think how hard it must be for them to shave!

You WILL get better, aim for about three months.