Hmmmm... Mtbiker, Hammocker, and now Wetshaver? Could you be my twin? Do you have sleep apnea too? LOL!

Anyway, I haven't been on hammock forums lately so I guess I missed that thread. I'll have to go look it up. It's great to see you here though. Definitely change one variable at a time, starting with making real lather with a brush and soap/cream. I don't shave with a straight yet but I'm going to eventually. I currently DE shave and frequent another shaving forum. Boar hair is usually what is referred to by "Pure Bristle". It should work fine to get started. It'll take a little time to break in though because boar hair needs to get split ends and soften up a little before it has the best performance (especially with creams) and comfort.