Did you ever do against the grain with a double edge or cartridge razor? If so, was it comfortable? I've been shaving for more than 50 years with everything from the cheapest double edge with Gillette Blue blades to injectors to all the iterations of cartridge razors and I have NEVER been able to go ATG comfortably. About 30 years ago, I decided I'd rather have a little stubble here or there, since I shave everyday, than have razor burn. I have treated my straight the same way. Two passes, with the grain and across the grain, with some scything or "windshield wiper" passes is all I try and gets me all I want...a shave that lasts 24 hours and a face that my wife likes to touch. Maybe your expectations are a bit high, or your judgment on one of the other factors from face prep to technique/pressure is a little off. A month isn't very long in the world of SR shaving. Not a knock, just my thoughts.