I've had a growing interest in straight razor shaving for some years now. As chance would have it I purchased one today from my barber for $100 after mentioning my interest to him. It is a puma #69, 5/8ths with the words "special pour barbe tres dure" printed on the blade. (To my untrained eye, it seems to be in pristine condition.)

I purchased as well a small strop, and thanks to instruction from this site and about one half hour of very slow practice I decided to give it a go..........WOW! I have to say, I am truly sorry I had not done this sooner.

I really only have one question for you fine folks: Is there anyone here who also has a semi prominent and/or pointed chin with advise on where to stretch the skin from for this area? It could very well be due to my severe lack of experience, but I just could not find a way to pull taut the chin area; so finished with my normal, modern razor.