Hey there!
I am brand new to this forum and even more so to the straight razor/DE world. I'll give you a bit of my story if you have the time. And then hopefully have some more time to answer my questions!

About 2 months ago i went to a all men's barber shop here in south jersey. I've always wanted a straight razor shave. The hair cut was one of the best i've had considering their attention to detail and the straight razor shave was even better than i expected. Being 24 years old, i fell right into the world of disposables and flash. My problem is that i have sensitive skin so i always thought the more blades the better right? Not to mention if it said sensitive skin on the can than it must be for me. I don't think i've ever been more wrong! After my straight razor shave (and not having an redness or razor burn like i normally would) i knew i had to make a change. A few weeks ago i purchases a parker vintage butterfly/blade pack/rooney badger brush/col. Cronk soap/and the websites own brand cream. Needless to say it has been an amazing experience thus far and my only regret is that i didn't use these methods earlier. Although i have only been using a DE a few weeks now, i find it pretty easy, but i still do not feel the full effect as i did with the straight razor shave.

I have so many questions and i'm more than anxious to get started. I have a very steady hand and have no issue with patience in learning this craft. I just want to use the right tools for the right job. I've read the beginners guide, but i havent seen any actual reccomendations. (maybe i havent searched on this forum enough). I apologize if this is the case. I have questions though on what to get for a beginner. (sorry if i am unsure of all the proper vernaculars as i am still learning)

1. Whats the difference between 5/8, 6/8 etc.

2. Are the scales for looks, preference or otherwise?

3. Whats the difference between the "rounded edge at the end of the blade and the one that looks flat on the end like a butchers knife"?

4. Carbon and stanless differences?

5. Thickness, weights etc.

6. A good beginner strop?

7. Whole/half hone?

8. Oils,stones, proper care?

Again, these questions are from a beginners point of view until i gain more knowledge on products and so forth. Any reccomendations on what to buy/where will be more than helpful. Also, i am always looking for other
products that will benefit my fair skin. I thank you in advance if not for your help than atleast your time to read this.

Respectfully,
TravelingMan32