I finally have time to introduce myself. My name is Matt, from Dallas TX. I have been planning on switching to a SR for the past few months and my wife took the opportunity to surprise me with brush, cream, soap and, oil all from AOS for Christmas. The first blade I picked up is a vintage Wade & Butcher from an antique shop for $10. The scales were destroyed but the blade is in fairly good shape. After I replace the scales I will be sending it out for a professional hone. My everyday shaver is a Thiers-lssard that I picked up at AOS. From what I can find it is the TI Spartacus relabeled for AOS. At this time I am scouring E-Bay for another daily shaver to pick up. I’m leaning toward a Boker. My first shave was a bloodbath! About a minute in I was ready to throw in the towel but I made it through the whole shave. After surviving several cuts and sever razor burn I worked my way slowly through the next two shave which were still not great. I watched some more vids on lather making, got mine to a point that I am happy with and, now my shaves have gotten progressively closer and smoother. 10 shave today without a scratch. I received my first strop in the mail today it’s a German Jemico with the adjustable handle. I would like to thank all that have contributed to this site it has been a wealth of information!