I agree with recommeding a new Dovo from a dealer who guarantees that it will be sent to you "shave ready." As a first razor, you will abuse it, ding it, dull it, etc., so save your $ for later when you want to upgrade. I recommend a 6/8 as a starter. I find that the wider blades are easier to control on the face and on the strop. Don't worry about honing for months down the road. You will dull it learning to strop, so set aside some $ to send it out for sharpening again.