I want to just throw in my 2 cents. The way I looked at it was right now it was better to learn with a 5/8 razor. From my understanding and very limited experience it is more maneuverable than larger razors. In the end I am happy with my choice. Do I have my eyes on a few 6/8 razors, well of course. You can always get a larger razor later if you end up enjoying the straight shaves. The other side to this is what you think looks good. If you dont like the way something looks aesthetically then that is part of it as well. Also on the SRD website I got the Ralf Aust 5/8 with a strop for 148. Check out the razor and strop sets. I think that those are phenomenal deals. You need a strop anyways. I know I didnt answer your question exactly but I hope it helped a little.