OK, I accept (but don't really understand the mettalurgy involved) the recognized fact that the edge will "change" in a 24 - 48 hour period after shaving, hence the recommended "rest" period I believe. Mainly that's the reason I don't strop after shaving. If it's going to change anyway, why do it? I only shave every 3rd or 4th day with the straight, so I just strop it pre-shave. Am I doing wrong? Should it be stropped post shave too? I've read quite a few posts on that particular issue, and there seems to be a bit of a split of opinion.

Also, what about the barbers?? These guys (and I loved to watch 'em as a boy) use their razors multiple times in a day, with obviously the only rest period of any length being over a weekend. Is the rest period really that necessary?