I have three straight shaves under my belt. Two types of soap, soon to be three as my other one is in the mail.

One razor with works kit from Larry A. On the first try, I was just glad not to donate much O+.

My neck is still rough after several passes, particularly under jawline on both sides. I have tried varying the blade angle of attack, the axis and direction of the stroke.

Prep by way of hot shower, hair conditioner, lather, steaming hot towel for a minute or so, relather and start in. I find myself having to relather three or four times, going back after the same area under the neck, to the point of irritating the the skin, but not cutting the hair. still doing no to little pressure on the blade.

I've read that it's a good idea to stick with the same gear (scientific method and all)
And I can get behind that idea, but I guess I don't know how I should be changing my
methods to get better results. I wonder "is it the razor"? . Realizing that it came from Larry, and his reputation being a fairly good one I'm guessing that can't be the case.
Did not strop at all first shave, did so very lightly before second one. Prob 20x up and back.

I am committed to learning the craft, as long as at the end of it, I get at least as good a shave as I get with cartridges now. (smooth pretty much all over).

I am inclined to get another razor or two, known to be honed by experienced hands, just to be sure it's not the gear. I know there are those who have been doing this for years who would not say they have it perfect. At the same time, I am feeling fairly comfortable with the razor on my skin. Regarding it a bit like riding a motorcycle. About the time I take my experience for granted......

Being that I am making several passes and still not getting the results I'm after, what else might I try at this point? Another razor? I have no problem with that.

My wife theorized that my face might "grow into" being shaven this way (in terms of how the hair grows?) Don't know if there is any truth to this?

Thanks in advance for your wise words.