Ok so here is my take on it. I too enjoy the hobby side of straights an DE's. I enjoy shaving with the antique straights an making sure they are pampered. MJC said it best an has been my biggest mentor to the feather system. I was initially turned away due to the price. After setting up some "loaners" an really working with the different styles, I have to say that IMO they are well worth the price. While I will not give up my real straights an DE's I will continue to use a feather of some type in rotation an definitely for my travel kit. I also will say that I agree that if not for the hobby side of this I could see myself never needing another razor. As previously stated they are that good. :tu