Greetings everyone

[BigJ]

Welcome aboard!

To answer your questions:
1. The 34C is a great razor in the mild/moderate range.
2. You are also looking at a good brush.
3. Start with a shave stick, perhaps La Toja or Speick, as that is an easy way to generate lather.
4. Purchase a blade sampler or two to determine what blades suit you best.

Mostly, enjoy the journey!

 

[wes1953]

Welcome to the forum!

 

[SparkyLB]

Welcome. Glad you're here!

I used a DE since my teens and just switched to a SR about 5 weeks ago. I was comfortable with a DE to the point of shaving in the shower with no mirror (but I wasn't using a $200 adjustable CLOSE model), just a garden-variety Merkur. In short order you'll become comfortable with a DE. They really are worlds better than a cartridge. There's no shortage of extremely helpful, friendly, knowledgeable gentlemen here. Ask any questions you've got. You will certainly get the best answer available.