Hello from California,
My name's Gary. I'm 44 and have been shaving for about 26 years. I've tried every conceivable combination of safety razor (1,2,3,4,5 blades) with aloe and whatever moisturizing stips...
I've also tried every combination of electric razor over the past quarter century. They all stink???

From about the age of 4 I've been a fan of anything sharp. For the past ten years or so I have been toying with the idea of going straight edge. I've been looking and researching and reading and watching everything I can about wet shaving. I've come to the conclusion that straight edge is just not in my cards right now. I'm going to have to "settle" for DE safety shaving.

My current set up is a Gillette double blade disposable. Whether it works or not, I strop the razor on Levis before each shave and I try to dry it off afterwards.

I use a hideously cheap brush and soap combo I bought at a large chain store. The brush sheds on my like a Bear in Spring time. I won't insult badgers by saying a "Badger in Spring Time".....

I currently shave seven days a week except for vacations. Then I may go a week or two at a time. Although I really prefer to be shorn.

I shave two passes at least, but typically three or four. I shave up, down, sideways, sideways and diagonal. It turns out I already do that Gillette slice thing. Here I thought I came up with it...

I've been in contact with Jim at Vintage Blades already. I hope I haven't driven him away....

I'm looking hard at the Merkur 39C and sample pack of blades. I'm going to have to talk myself OUT of using Feather blades at some point.

I'm looking forward to reading, writing, and learning.