first week complete

I started shaving with a straight razor a little over a week ago, 9 shaves in so far

I'm getting presentable shaves each time and my face is so much happier, i would always get razor burn from cartridges i was using previously but so far with straight there is none of that.

I have not gone for BBS as that would require an ATG pass which i don't think my skill set is ready for yet.

Biggest thing i have learned is take your time and make sure the prep is right, i had weepers on two shaves both of which i tried to prep beard without a shower just didn't do it so since i've kept everything consistent and shaves get easier and better each time

'Sounds like an incredibly good start to me. I was a bloody mess.

Bravo for making the change to quality. You're doing well now, and its gonna get alot better. Enjoy!

Congrats! You will get better and better to where you won't think of going back. Your technique will get better as well as your stropping. Go slow and concentrate on stropping so you don't dull your edge. Do not worry about honing for a few months in order for you to research what you want. Otherwise, you'll spend a bunch of money on hones you don't want or need. So enjoy the learning curve and just go slow with everything. It will all come together nicely in about 3-4 months.