Quote Originally Posted by BobH View Post
Welcome to the forum. Yes, you are jumping in to the end of the pool by going quickly to shaving with a straight razor. I would read what is in the forums library before going any deeper into it.

It takes time to learn how to make a good lather which helps immensely in getting a good shave, it takes time to learn how to strop a razor properly where you don't degrade the edge while doing it and about 100 shaves with a straight razor before you get consistently decent shaves. While learning to shave with a straight razor you will dull the edge faster too. Be prepared to send the razor out to be honed more frequently than normal or learn to touch up the razor yourself. If you elect to learn to touch up the razor yourself, that leads to another learning curve too.
Quote Originally Posted by DZEC View Post
You have to start with a properly honed razor. The Dovo you purchased is a good razor and should provide excellent shaves for a lifetime once honed. properly. I suggest you send yours out for a professional honing. We have members from Germany and elsewhere in Europe who can offer some suggestions.

Then you have to master the techniques of stropping a straight razor to maintain that edge and of shaving with a straight razor to optimize it’s use. Check out the beginner section on the SRP home page for some specific suggestions.
If I were starting out, all over again, I'd follow these rules:

  • Learn to face-lather. Learn to do a proper three-pass shave. Learn your beard. Until you do, keep shaving with a DE.
  • Stick with a single straight razor, brush, and shaving soap.
  • Learn to shave with both hands.
  • Buy an inexpensive, 3" strop.
  • Always buy "used" razors.
  • Don't buy any hones!

Smooth shaving!