Greetings SRP! After lurking the forums for weeks I decided to dive in.

[JJScorpio]

I have been researching straight razors and the process of shaving for the past few week (mostly here). And finally decided that I was going to learn this art... I purchased a Dovo Forestal (5/8 carbon) Razor and most of the basic gear, 3" black Latigo strop with matching canvas, Naniwa 3000/8000 stone, Art of Shaving starter kit in sandlewood... and of course a nick stick.

Yes I am committed. And realize I have a few more things I want already (like a 12K stone, and another razor and another strop for paste and...)

So today I put a 'Pro honed' (From SRD) blade to my face for the first time... Yup this is going to take some time to learn. While I took my time... Hot towel on the face, pre-oiled, good lather ect, Felt like I was all thumbs. Only nicked myself once, but the final shave was about on par with a cartridge blade shave comfort wise. Which is quite a complement cause I had a 30 day beard and it was my first straight shave. I did not strop the razor just used it out of the box. It pulled more then I thought it would, but that is likely my bad form. No worries I'll stick with it, I love it already and know I'll get better. Happy to be a new member and my 12 year old already thinks that so cool he wants me to teach him when he is ready to shave.

[ReardenSteel]

Welcome aboard and glad you finally decided to join. 30 day beard...first straight shave, man that takes some guts. Congratulations. My first shave was just one day's growth so I could really see what i was doing. Patience is a virtue and yes your shaves will continue to improve. Once in a while you may have a set back, but it's all a part the the learning experience of your new hobby. Enjoy every minute of it and realize even when you make a mistake (cut your yourself, nick the strop, ding the blade) we have all been there and you will have just learned a lesson. Enjoy and keep us posted on your progress.

[Maxi]

Right on. Welcome to SRP.

There's lots to read, great videos to watch, and some awesome people to meet.

FWIW, put those hones in the closet. Learn to shave, get confident with your passes, THEN bring out the hones. Too much at the same time may end up being frustrating in some ways. Build your confidence bit by bit.....your hair will continue to grow as your skill continues to grow.

Welcome to the best hobby out there.

[Luke]

Welcome Aboard! sounds like your off to a great start.

[Birnando]

Welcome to SRP.
You sound devoted to this new enterprise!
And your start sounds just great.
Keep at it and you will soon be rewarded with the most fantastic shaves.

Any questions you might have, the generous and knowledgable members here will surely be able to help you with!

Good luck

[JJScorpio]

Thank you for all the warm welcome and the encouragement!

I have to add that may face felt great the day after my first shave, I was really surprised I didn't have any razor burn.

@Maxi - My razor came honed by SRD so I am hoping it will be a couple months before I need to try honing. Stropping and shaving are going to be my focus for now.

[du212]

Welcome aboard!

[Maxi]

Nice.

Razors honed by Lynn are pretty wild. I love SRD for all things....mostly strops. I love strops!

[leadingedge]

Welcome to SRP, you'll find all the resources you need in this forum. Check out the "Wiki" section for a lot of great articles and tips.