Well, after a couple of months of using a Dovo Shavette and getting good at the art of the shave itself, it was time to take the plunge and go for a full on straight shave. I purchased a sight unseen razor from Whipped Dog and received the package last evening with the below Lafayette Cutlery Razor. It looks great, is certainly a vintage brand (19-teens give or take) and as what appear to be bone scales in pretty good condition. It could have been a wee bit sharper, but overall I am thrilled to have it as a first razor.

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My first shave was ok. The blade pulled a wee bit but didn't jump or cause any tangible rash. Fortunately I am used to having a pretty delicate hand after using the shavette for a while. No cuts or weepers either. The shave was not all that close and I had to take 3 passes to get down to where I normally get with 2 on my shavette. I am sure I will get better at this and the shaves will improve correspondingly.

On to stropping....
The blade may not have been the sharpest when I first used it, but after I hit it with the strop for the first time I think it took a turn for the worse. I practiced a bit however (i have been reading and watching stropping videos since I bought the shavette), and it seems to have its edge back, and is seemingly a bit sharper as well! I will be shaving again tonight so I am excited to see the fruit of my study and labors.

A huge thanks to Whipped Dog for the great razor and wonderful service. What a great resource for this community and those looking to try this out at a reasonable price point.