New guy from Boston

Hello Gents,
I've been snooping about for a few weeks but this is my first post. I recently decided to take the plunge into Straight Razor Shaving after years of cartridges. So I just dropped into an AOS store (noob error?) and got one of the TI Carbonsong C135 steel blades ( I got one with a steel handle because I liked the weight) they sell there. I read all the beginner articles here and watched a bunch of online videos to prep for that first shave and it went pretty well I think (still have my nose). I do have some questions though at AOS they claimed that their razors were "shave ready" and actually should not even be stropped for the first few shaves. Sure enough the thing shaves at least as well as my old cartridges and gives me no irritation (which is really a new feeling for me). But am I missing out on a much greater experience by not having it honed before any more serious use? Also the salesperson there said they did not do any honing at that store, if that's the case then how could it be that the razor was good to go right out of the box? Was I had? Is there a reputable place I can go in the Boston area for honing and perhaps some instruction/guidance?

Thanks!

Welcome,
Glad to hear your first shave went well. You can search the wiki section here on how to and what not.
As for your aos straight, they could say its shave ready which if they say it was it could of been done before ending up at the store from the factory.
I have the same razor but with the black scales which was my first and I like it alot.
There's no reason way not to strop it before using even if its new.

I did send mine out to be honed by a forum member here because I believe they don't come shave ready.

If your getting good shaves then just keep up the normal up keep for your straight. Stropping on linen or cotton and then finish on leather.

Cheers

Welcome to srp