Folks, I've not been shaving long with straight razors but decided to get my new dovo honed by Fergiebilly. I also picked up a Ridge back from him while about it. They arrived home this morning and I took my growth off with the dovo - the difference in smoothness - No comparison !! I'm looking forward to trying out my 2nd one in the morning and I know it'll be a treat. Also his advice on picking up a hone I really appreciate. It's the difference between driving a Morris Minor and a Rolls. Thanks Billy. Happy Days.
Indeed, I purchased a Thuri Celebrated on @Fergiebilly advise and I'm extremely happy with the results. I only do touch ups but it makes a huge difference having the edge very sharp.
I am a pretty new honer (9 months or so), and I can say one thing with certainty: It is easier to KEEP a blade sharp, than to MAKE it sharp. It only takes a couple minutes to refresh one, but takes a newbie a good hour to hone one. I will hit mine with CrOx once or MAYBE twice, but after that it goes to the stone.
A Properly Honed Razor Can be Maintained for Months & Months or a Year or So in a Rotation with Pastes before Even Looking at a Stone..8/10 Sets on 0.5 Chro/Ox or So Around Every 4 Shaves is One Method that Can Be Used to Keep a Blade Sharp.
When that Stops Working then the Thuri will Refresh it..Then the Process of Maintaining them with Pastes Begins Again & So Forth if You Get My Drift..
Thank you gentlemen. I cut down that beard with a scissors then did my first shave with a straight - It was fairly raw but getting easier ! Keep the faith !