Hi all, I've had the wonderful fortune of coming across these forums during my quest for my first razor, and I must say I am very impressed. Having taken part in a few forums before, I am somewhat surprised at the high level of respect and willingness to help that is prevalent here. Truly a gentlemanly, and ladylike of course, atmosphere.

I have recently picked up what I feel to be a steal at an antique shop: a James Barlow and Sons, of Sheffield, razor for right around $20. I had fully intended to, and still do, try to find a razor that is fully shave-ready but could simply not pass this one up. I'm looking forward to participating in these forums, and want to thank everybody in advance for their input.

On another note, while not the correct place to post this I figure why clutter up the boards with a question that can probably be answered succinctly, how does one know when it is time to hone. Obviously when the edge cannot be made shave-ready on a strop, but is there some sort of telltale sign?