After carefully doing all the prep work I learned here (washing, lathering, hot towel, resting, 2nd lather with The Art of Shaving Lavender cream) I felt my bear was primed and ready for shave. I began using my new Merkur DE, and it was far from what is describe as luxurious and enjoyable. The blade felt like it was ripping and tearing my beard more than cutting. I had 3 days of growth on it, and being I have a thick beard, normally have some discomfort after 3 days with my Mach 3; but nothing like this. I have new razor bumps I haven't had in years on my neck and painful razor burn. I am totally discouraged from doing this again. I don't like experimenting, especially when it brings that much pain. The blade is not adjustable, so I don't know if the blade was too tight or what. I'm going to give this another shot, but I suppose I have to let my face heal first. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciate.