My step father has a collection of straight razors that i dare say would rival some of the top collectors here. That being said when i asked to use a blade and strop he quickly said how bad of an idea it was and suggested an electric... I'm rather hard headed once I've got an idea in my head. Most have been kind of standoff'ish not wanting to discuss. My wife is behind me on it. I guess that's all i really need seeing how much this could end up costing