Gentlemen,

I just wished to share a complete and total success in almost one year of Straight Razor Shaving. Next month will mark my one year anniversary to SRS. I tip my hat to the many experienced shavers who have so thoroughly provided so much invaluable information to this most noble art. In addition, to the countless post from all members and to Straight Razor Place for which I’m eternally grateful.

I pretty well kicked off my experience last year by purchasing a Dovo Bismark that was pre-honed by Lynn. (Thanks Lynn…. It made all the difference in the world.) In addition, I basically bought a starter set (strop, mug, brush…etc) and the razor from www.vintagebladesllc.com. My best investment was the purchase of the Lynn Abrams DVD "World of Straight Razor Shaving". I’m fairly certain, in my case, that without this DVD I would pretty well have a scared face.

I live in Germany, so my preferred shaving soap is Tabac and I use Proraso as my aftershave. Other than that, I have my old trusty Alum block and styptic pen. I must confess that although my kit is relatively basic in nature. It simply performs the job of the smoothest shave I have ever had in my life. However, I have been drooling over many of the collections that most of the members have. I plan on purchasing another SR this year, however the possibilities seem endless. I may drive to Soligen to scope out the selection.

If I could share only one piece of advice that I have found tremendously helpful to a new user it would simple be this: A light hand with short strokes works wonders in SRS. It still fascinates me how ever single shave is so damn smooth. I’ve only had to hone my razor once thus far. Again, time was the key to achieve that razors edge on the stone. (Plus Lynn’s instructions and the many post on the site I read)

This is my first post and again I just wished to say Thanks!!!