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Don't put too much faith in the Hanging Hair Test (HHT). The only real test is to apply blade to face. :)

If it removes hair smoothly and without pulling/tugging, you're probably good to go. If...

The best thing you can do when starting out is to take it slow and easy. Don't try to shave your entire beard, but rather start on the easy bits: a with the grain pass on the cheeks or something...

That is what we are referring to when we say factory edge. It may or may not be shave-ready.

Well after all it is your blade and your face, so ultimately it's your call as to who does the honing.

FWIW I'd highly suggest contacting Taylor of Bond Street to verify whether their razors are...

Sorry - forgot to mention stones & frequency of honing...

There are a *ton* of different honing regimens out there involving anything from a single stone (for example the Norton 4k/8k - see this...

First of all - welcome to SRP! There is an absolute wealth of information here. In particular, those starting out should definitely read these:

Beginner's guide to straight razor shaving -...