I'm not sure if what I am about to say constitutes a reply, per se, but here goes. I purchased a DOVO from The Art of Shaving about three years ago as I was so impressed with the information regarding the straight shave from those converted from cartridge shaving. I even had the "master barber" shave me with MY blade - they don't to that now by the way. The barber cut me straight away above the left lip but all in all, it was a decent shave although I thought it felt rougher than necessary. I have NEVER been able to get used to shaving with my straight razor as I am awkward with my nondominant hand and cannot master the chin, lower and upper lip. Multiple passes tend to make it worse.
I have used only a silver tip badger brush and the Art of Shaving shaving cream recommended with preshave oil - which I actually think makes my skin sticky.
Today, I tried again. I stropped my blade about 30 times on the linen and 30 times on the leather, cleaned it off and started my shave on my warmed up face and three day old whiskers. Help. Me. GOD! I finished up with only one small "scrape" but tonight after work, I showered and my Lord! I felt like the chickens had had a party scraping my face it hurt so bad!!!
No! I have never had the blade honed after purchase - I know that is a common and reasonable question. I don't know WHO to send it to or how to do it myself. I am STILL excited about the prospect of using my nice straight razor. I have SEVERAL hundred dollars already invested just in equipment.
I know there is a steep learning curve but, what else?
Feeling raw in NC.
Robb