Tony, I have Ray Dupont and yourself to thank for introducing me to and furthering my knowledge of this almost-lost art.

The "how do I use these things?" phase:

Ray started me off with some great tools around Thanksgiving which I'm still learning to master as time goes on. As I've mentioned here in the forums (probably ad nauseam), I started with a Feather, a Vulfix super badger, and Classic mug/soap/aftershave which I couldn't be happier with.

The curiosity and still the "how do I use these things?" phase)

My curiosity and interest in staight shaving has put me in the curiosity/acquisition phase - I will temper this curiosity as I'm looking to make a real estate investment this year. I've spoken to Tony regarding the puchase of a conventional straight and his very practical 4-sided paddle and hanging strops.

I'm starting to appreciate the beauty (thanks to the great pics here at SRP), and functionality, of a straight razor - the smoothness of the handle; the gleam of the blade; the curves of the blade. They're like women I guess - curvy, sharp, sometimes unpredictable, sometimes dangerous, can cut you deeply, but always a pleasure to get close to.

I think I'll be an avid collector eventually (of razors, that is; still looking for that one special lady).

-Rob