Thanks for the info. I've been using a straight razor for a couple of years now. I get really comfortable shaves with all my razors but I'm just tired of traveling down to Ross cutlery in LA to get my razors honed. And when they do hone it can be a hit or miss experience. I come to this site quite often to read reviews of razors and brushes but just recently joined so that I can chime in on some questions of my own instead of trying to find a question of the same topic asked by another member. I got everything I need. Razors, strop, brush, soaps, creams and aftershave. The only thing I want is to hone my own blades. I feel like I might be able to put a better edge on my blades then the guys over at Ross cutlery. Great store by the way. If you live in LA it's definitely worth checking out. They carry some nice vintage razors and just recently started carrying a USA brand called the Grim Blades.