Hello

I'm Truman, been lurking for a while but just joined the forum today. I've had problems with bics and get really bad skin irritation. It always felt like I was pulling hair not shaving it. Electrics never seemed to work either.

About a month ago I decided to take an initial step to wet shaving. I just couldn't spring for a full Straight Edge. So I purchased the Parker SRW with 120 shark blades, Tabac soap and a Tweezerman brush. Thinking that i would upgrade to a true blade if I could get the hang of it or downgrade to a DE. I really enjoy it. I haven't had any skin irriation and actually enjoy the shaving process (even though it takes 3 times longer)

So yesterday I mentioned it to my grandpa because I remember him having a shaving brush and mug in his bathroom from when I was a kid. Well he told me he uses a DE but used to use his dad's straight edge. He then tells me that I can have that straight edge (still in its original box). He said it hasn't been used in 20 years.

I haven't had a chance to see it yet, (Lives in another state, going to see him in July) so I know nothing of condition or brand etc. Knowing my Grandpa I'm sure he did his best to keep it in good condition (I mean its still in its 90 year old cardboard box)

So I have a couple of questions:
1) is it ok to shave with a razor that is so old? (given that it is indeed in good condition)
2) Where would I get it professionally honed? Are there local places that do this or should i ship it somewhere?
3) What brand\type strop would you recommend


I was planning on asking for a Razor for Christmas but if it turns out to be a good razor I might just use my great grandpa's instead.

Thanks for having such an awesome website!

Truman