This is all fantastic info. Many thanks guys.
I absolutely intend to strop the razor prior to each shave HOWEVER I was hoping to skip this step on the very first (and only this one) shave.
The logic behind this is that I have never shaved with a straight before.
I also have never used a strop. If I know what the blade felt like the first time (when it was expertly prepared by Tony) then I know what I am shooting for. If I apply my newbie stropping techniques, I may corrupt this first learning experience.
If I use the blade as shipped by Tony am I going to do myself some damage or I am completely missing the point?
All of you advice is greatly appreciated.
Scott