I am 52 and just now getting into trying my hand at straight razor shaving.
I have a world of questions.
The first is I am getting; from my family, a Dubl duck special no.1. Pearlduck made in Solingen Germany. I have no clue to what type of point it has; it is being sent to me as I type this post. I have read that being a beginner I should look at a rounded point. I also have a and a Wade and Butcher Spanish Point or Barber's notch (could someone explain if they are the same thing just different names?) made in Sheffield England 5/8" I believe. Would this one be one that I would/should have to wait quite some time before I gather experience with shaving?
Please bear with my questions as they might seem idiotic but as I stated I am a noob at this....
Also looking for suggestions tips and any other advise.
I am in the process of gathering other supplies; such as leather/canvas strop, strop paste (is this really needed???) and a Dual Whetstone Knife Sharpener Water Stone 3000/8000. What would you recommend to clean the metal of the knife blade?
This is probably dumb but would automotive rubbing or polish compound be acceptable? Just to clean the metal for appearances...
Should the razors be sent out and professionally sharpened for the first time before I use them and then use my materials to maintain them? If so are there recommendations for places to send them to?
I already have a shaving mug and badger brush.
I am still up in the air as far as an aftershave, and or alum block..... yeah I have many questions....
Well I am looking forward to hearing/reading what you all recommend and what your thoughts are.

Kind Regards,
David