I have a super tough, dark colored beard and very sensitive light colored skin. I don't get bumps, but rather I burn and bleed (thin skin maybe?). The shave prep I have learned here gives me a much better shave with my Schick Quattro than I've ever had before but I want much better still. I still sometimes feel burning on my face a day later. Plus my dark beard and light skin makes any patchiness in my shave job really noticeable.

I'm trying to decide between a straight razor and a DE razor. How do these 2 types compare for getting tough hair off with as little irritation as possible? I am very attracted to straight razors for the beautiful blade and the manly blade handling skills that are needed. On the other hand I'm cheap and really attracted to the DE razors because of the price. Plus even if I get RAD, DE razors are much cheaper than straight razors.

Has anybody with a tough beard and sensitive skin used both and care to advise me whether one type is significantly better than the other comfort-wise?

Thanks,
- Nick