I just make sure my blade is real sharp before the day starts at the barber shop. ( we just shave neck and around ears) Strop and hone in my down time. I dont strop between customers. It usually stays sharp enough. I do have a back up razor in case we are real busy. (or someone want a high and tight shave) I knock MOST of the hair down with a 00000 clipper blade then go at it with my straight and warm lather. It is legal in my state too, as long as it's sanitized between each person ( legal or not people should want to be sanitary anyway).
On a side note MOST of the shops in my area DONT shave with a straight around the ears ( dont even own a razor) the real sad thing is ,,,they tell people that request it that it's illegal to do!!!!