Hello SRPers! My name is Dave and I am from Portland, OR. I have been wet shaving since 2012, mainly with safety razors of all types. I have a decent collection of safety razors, vintage blades, brushes, and all the software to go with them and have finally decided to dip my toe into real straight razors. I have been using Feather Artist Club type razors occasionally over the last few years and previously convinced myself that I didn't have time to maintain a straight razor. Last Fall I bid on a lot that had a Somerset era Simpson shaving brush that I wanted that also came with a mint Dovo 1516 Special and strop which I had planned on flipping to reduce my cost on the brush. Once I had that razor in hand, though, I just had to give it a try. Not knowing what the condition of the edge was like I jumped in feet first and managed to not tear my face up. In fact I didn't experience any irritation at all, likely due to the practice with my aforementioned Feather AC use. Of course, I also didn't do a great job of getting my usual BBS result, but I was inspired!

My next razor was a no name Silver Steel Sheffield razor that I purchased from a well respected honemeister at another forum. Now this razor was sharp! The first couple of shaves with this razor provided excellent results but I did manage to give myself a couple of nicks and some minor irritation. After a few more shaves I was managing very close and comfortable results and then the flood gates opened. I have a very basic honing kit, which I have put to use once with satisfactory results (nowhere near as sharp as that Sheffield). I have a few strops but am mainly using my Poor Man's strop from Larry so that I don't ruin the more expensive ones. I have acquired a few straight razors but am trying to restrain myself a bit until I actually learn what preferences I might have. I truly appreciate the knowledge that I have been able to take away from this wonderful forum, especially the Library which is packed full of basic knowledge which will hopefully prevent me from asking all the same ol' questions that tend to recycle themselves. Thanks to all members that actively participate to make this site the great reference that I have enjoyed and hope to continue to enjoy for a long time.