Finally got to try my first DE shave in over 30 years since when I was about 19 or so (and it ended badly). Out came the shiny new Muhle R89, fitted it with a Gillette Silver Blue blade, lathered up nice and hot with Proraso green and first pass, with some trepidation, got through without a mark . Lathered up again for second pass, even smoother and again, no issues. So two full passes, not even a scratch and as smooth as a babies bottom.

That's it, I'll never return to cartridge shavers again! It really was easier than I thought it would be, just needed to go slowly the first time and be sure not to exert too much pressure but it was smooth sailing after only a minute or two of getting the hang of it.

Thanks to all for previous suggestions, comments, etc. It all helped .

Natty