As smooth yes...as fast no. I'm a reformed Mach 3 user and that is my standard as it got me the smoothest and longest lasting shave of anything I'd used before returning to straights after a long absence. And at the risk of being burned at the stake I'll admit that if for some reason I have to be clean shaven in 5 minutes I'll grab the M3 instead of my straight.

You say you've only been honing and shaving a couple months. I'd say that straights are like shooting pool...some people are naturals and others require lots of practice before becoming proficient. Keep trying and you will eventually discover the magic combination of prep, sharpness, angle, and part of the blade to use that will get er done.