Thanks for the warm welcome and all the info.

I'd thought it would be safe overall, but wanted to ask just in case there were any horror stories out there. Thanks for the tip on the Barbicide. I'm familiar with it, but never thought to buy any. I usually do use alcohol even on my disposables.

I usually hang out on other knife and sword related forums and have begun to realized this is a whole new ball of wax. Very interested info to be found here. This straight razor bug is a lil dangerous for the wallet. I see something from the classifieds that I want to purchase here everyday!

I'll one day make an attempt to tinker with a straight razor, though they require much more care than restoring a thicker blade. But if I hang here long enough I know I'll be able to do it.

Happy shaving one and all!