Allright guys, I did the deed tonight. My first shave w/ a straight.
It was simultaneously easier and more challenging than I expected.
I stropped up the 5/8 square point (which I got from JonE) on a Tony Miller paddle strop (which I got from Telly). Thanks guys! I am sure it could have been sharper, but I still have some practice to do.
Lathered up some T&H W.I. Limes and went to it.

Angle was not that big of a problem really, but I think shaving with GEMs exclusively for a while now helped that bit. Using both hands was more of a problem though. I finally gave up on my left hand and after a while figured out the necessary holds for just my right hand. The left was just too shaky on my throat and I wanted to finish without having to call 911.

Got a respectable shave out of the deal, but managed to slice my right cheek once and just in front of my left ear soon after. Mistakes on a straight are not as forgiving as a nick from a GEM I found out. The Gillespie cheek trick does not work for me that well using a straight either (thus the slice on right cheek).
I found lather to be much more of a critical factor when using a straight also.

My neck was actually easier to shave with a straight than safety razor. That surprised me a bit.
All in all, I found the experience to be enjoyable and look forward to round two.

The verdict is in, I am now a straight razor shaver. I do not plan to use the safety razors any more, even for touch ups. I figure allowing myself to only use the cut-throat should force me to improve faster than using both. A few scars just add character, right?


This place has been absolutely invaluable as a source of information, and I will surely continue to scour the boards. I couldn't have done it without this fine community. I realy appreciate all the info (and gear) everybody provides.