So after a week of only using a straight edge (except one day where I needed a good shave) I had my first decent shave this AM. I went WTG only and it still took me 30 min. I walked away with about 5 nicks but no gashes. Neck remains my challenge. Some days I get a good lather and some I don't (I'm using these sample wedges which frankly are a bit of a pain to be consistent). My honing is getting better and using my left hand is getting more comfortable.

I plan to keep doing this WTG only and hopefully my time reduces so I can afford a XTG or ATG stroke. Is this what you pros recommend? Just keep plugging away?

I'm glad I started without buying a really spendy blade and strop because I'm learning a heck of alot and alot can go wrong.