I am an absolute beginner. I have managed to pick up a few interesting blades. Now I am hooked. My wife is humoring me right now. :) She did by me a nice USMC razor for Christmas. Just found and polished a nice DePew. I love the history and utilitarianism of the blades. I know that these were mass produced. However it amazes me that even the crustiest of old razors can still hold an edge. I haven't tried shaving yet... My hands can be pretty shaky.