Thread: Are my expectations too high?

So I've been shaving with a straight for 2 years. I've also been honing razors for about 2 years. I own a king 1k, Norton 4/8 and a Naniwa 12k. I currently own about 15 straight razors that I've honed myself- relying mostly on youtube vids, trial and error, and of course countless hours reading threads on this site for learning purposes.

The problem is I don't feel like I'm getting above average shaves with any of my straights. I also own a feather ss with professional blades - this is my benchmark. When I use a feather, shaves are BBS and AGT is never an issue until the blade starts to pull. With my straights, BBS is possible, usually at the expense of comfort, especially AGT. My AGT passes aren't necessarily uncomfortable (though sometimes they are), but usually aren't buttery smooth like I experience with the feather.

I usually make 3 passes wtg, xtg, agt. using a home made bridle leather strop 50 round trips before each shave. No CRX, though I do own some (just don't use it).

So, in short, are my expectations to high with my straights?

Maybe I should send a razor out for honing, or someone can evaluate my edges for comparison? under a 16 x loupe, the edges are mirror finish, pop hairs, tree top, and usually pass HHT. I'm also paying attention to razor angle when shaving, trying to experiment and be aware of not too severe of an angle...

Thanks for any input!