So I decided to go again with my Merkur HD after watching some YouTube videos, and voila, BBS!* I think the key (for me anyway) is not being afraid of the razor.* Before I was so scared of cutting myself that I cut myself, without cutting the hair.* This time, I just shaved and switched angles/directions, as needed, with positive results.* *

In total it took me about 40 minutes, but I'm sure that will come down with time.**

In Sum:
Merkur HD shorty;
Personna Blue Blade;
Trumper's Lime Shave Cream;
Silver Tip Badger Brush;
Razor Rock and Nivea Balm to Finish