Hey Everyone!

Straight razor shaving has been skill that I have been interested in learning but never quite picked up. Being familiar with the wonderful experience of using a badger brush, pre-shave oils, etc I wanted to take my experience to a whole new level.

After reading the introductory articles available on the site I am now itching to get my hands on a razor. However, with all the cautionary tales of dull, folded, and wire edges my concern is the proper care and maintenance of my soon to be acquired shaving tool.

From what I gather buying and using a strop (properly) prior to every shave is important. However, in approximately 6-8 weeks it will become necessary for me to hone the blade (correct me if I am wrong)? Also, is the use of paste a supplement or replacement for the use of a hone.

As with any endeavor I sometimes run the risk of getting too technical and sometimes it is better to just pick a point and get started. Yet, I like being thorough so I can fully enjoy the nuiances of things that capture my interest.