I think the samplers is the way to go. By the time you are done the issue of technique vs equipment should be answered. As a straight razor shaver you will have less bad habits to overcome. Ending with feather is right too. I love the feather razor, alas I cannot get through a shave without a knick or a weaper. I have settled on the Astra as my best razor. YMMV.

As for the interesting question of which saves closer straight or DE my straight shaving is coming along slowly and I have yet to get it as close as the DE. I'm glad to hear your straight is so close a shave. I was beginning to get worried. But you give me renewed hope that my skill will come and I'll get the shave I am looking for!

RFM