Lessons learned, Update and Thank you

[Papertiger]

Some months ago I posted a frustrated message describing how my progress had stalled, and that my straight razors never could perform as well as the Feather or my DE. Responses were supportive, but also firm in declaring the possibilty of future successs. Since that time I have revised a number of my processes and now am routinely getting very close shaves with no irritation, and even am getting the chin and jawline clean in 2 out of 3 shaves. So - first - thanks for the suppport and "tough love' and second, here is a list of what is now working:
1. Sharp razor - success on the hones is still not 100%, but with attention to bevel setting, a light touch, the judicious use of Thiers paste, and a Mastro Livi loom strop with CrO2 that seems to improve my technique, my razors routinely pass the HHT and deliver great shaves. If they don't then I know the blade is beyond my current honing ability and needs to go to an expert
2, Shave oil - initially was put off by the texture of AOS oil, but have finally decided that it does help. Needs sparing application and immediate handwashing after use
3. Shaving cream - have tried a bunch, but AOS cream in the tub or travel tube consistently delivers a good lather with excellent lubrication. I use others for a change of pace, but this is my basic cream.
4. Light touch! Light touch! Light touch! - Its amazing how long it has taken me to control this aspect and what a difference it has made. It includes not just blade to skin contact but also grip. If I cant get a good shave with a light touch, then the blade needs some attention or I'm having an off day and need to use the DE.

So I hope this experience is helpful to others. It takes time, and listening to the good advice on these forums, to learn this skill. Thank you to SRP members for helping me stay the course.

[mcgyver74]

Congrats on the good shaves!!!

[HNSB]

Good post!

Sounds like you've made some great progress. Congrats!

[Ryan82]

I love these types of threads because we get to say "We told you so"! lol

Joking aside, it can be frustrating at the beginning for many newbies, and lord knows how many have given up outright, never to try again. That's what is great about the community here - the support and the expertise of the members- and I truly believe that has helped more frustrated beginners to perservere rather than to quit. Congrats and keep up the good work.

[Durhampiper]

It's great that things are working out for you. As you've no doubt noticed, your shaves got better because you gave yourself time, persevered and learned, rather than just throwing in the towel when it wasn't easy right off the bat--or as the old-timers used to put it, "Use makes master." I always hate to read about guys giving up because they've been straight-shaving for a whole week and they're not getting BBS, etc. Keep up the good work!

[Pacho53]

I really appreciate your post. I'm at the point you were at some months ago, and I share the frustration. What keeps me shaving is posts like yours and those of more experienced shavers who remember how difficult it was at the start and who keep saying it gets easier. So thanks for sharing your experiences.

[celestino]

Congratulations on the success with the straights!!