Hey Everyone,

I've been shaving with a straight razor for a little over a year and a half, and I'm still frustrated by my inability to get as close of a shave as I could with my Gillette Mach 3. I'm currently using this razor (a present from my girlfriend): The Art of Shaving - Straight Razors - Stainless Steel Straight Razor. I was told that my razor needed honing, so I went out and bought a Norton 4k/8k hone, and while it definitely improved, I'm still having to go over spots over and over again, which is killing my face!

I've played with everything from angle, to stroke size, to different passes, to whatever oil/soap/brush techniques I've been offered, but I still can't get a close shave. I'm starting to wonder if my razor itself isn't good for my face. Would you guys recommend this one over my current one? Thiers Issard Singing Straight Razor 5/8", White Scales | Fendrihan Shaving Store

Thanks,
Jason