For me I found the best shaves to come from either my Gillette Fat Boy, or my Futura. Both these razors are fairly aggressive and both are dialed up to be that way. I have used lots of different blades and for me the Astra's do the best. Astra's are sharp enough for several shaves, and seem to be very forgiving. As for soaps, I have and use to many to list, but all seem to work well with what or how I am doing. My beard does not grow as fast as I like (more to shave). For me I found that skipping the third pass has helped to eliminate the razor burn. My first pass is just strait down my face and neck, second is against the grain, using only the weight of the razor, I use no pressure at all. I know that if I am using any pressure at all then I have a dull blade, and know I am going to get razor burn. I also know the value of a good aftershave regiment. Always after a shave I use an Alum block, then aftershave lotion/splash. If I feel any irritation then I get out the Aloe Vera, either a leaf, or lotion. In any case I am more likely to get razor burn on my neck and form me thats the most irritating. I hope this helps you