I just bought a Belgian blue 8k at last and gave my razor 6 strokes then I stroped 30 on leather only (I usually do the same amount on canvas first). I noticed the difference right away.The first shave was uncomfortable so I gave the straigt razor a rest next day and used my DE.Next day I went back to the straight after another 40 on leather and this time I had the most comfortable shave with my straight razor yet.
I still need a lot of practice before I'll get consistently close andcomfortable shaves.