I actually agree with Johnus, I've had better luck with my Feather Kamasori style razor. Although I have improved my finished edges on my straights with the recent purchase of a Yellow coticule and Chromium Oxide. Maybe I should try again with a straight, my edges have been smooth like butter. Carl you can always stop if you nick yourself, use the Alum block (bite down on your leather wallet) and try again or switch to your DE, no shame in that.