A damascus razor for 40 bucks? Not if its real! A true damascus razor cost hundreds. That shows they are RSO. Not real razors. When you get one from here (B.S.T.) and they say it is sha e ready, be damn careful!. Compared to what you have been trying to shave with, one from here will take a wrist off in a heart beat.
BTW, NEVER, and i mean never, try to cut paper with your real razor! You will damage the edge. Good luck and keep us informed what you get. If you want new there are reputable sellers out there. Its going to cost a lot more than you have spent so far and as said, be sure to ask if it is honed by hand. Not a machine or a factory edge.
Oh, and one more thing....
Welcome to SRP. We will help you in everyway we can to get you going the right direction to a great shave. It takes many, many shaves and and lots of time but it will come. Just dont give up.