Hi Grant
You already have two great advisers like Chris and James, so I am not sure how much more I can add. For me, the neck has been a problem, but not for too long...Sometimes, the issue is in the hand(s). it's a bit uncomfortable at first, but comes easier with time...hang in there. Confidence has to be developed in handling the razor, and confidently chopping the whiskers off.

For me, after 2 months str8 shaving, the neck area is the easiest and the least irritable part to get a BBS shave, going ATG.

It may also have some psychological factor associated with it...it is the point of attachment of the head to the rest of the body . And, you approach this area with a sharp object in your hand...scary .

-Robert