The difficulty and pulling you experienced is normal for the first few weeks. I got some nice feedback and a marked improvement in the shave within the first 3-5 shaves. It wasn't much but it was just enough for me to realize I was making progress. Within the first 10 you will know it is in fact possible to use a straight. Within the first month or two you will know you aren't going back .
Stick with it some more, it will get better.
Stick with it some more, it will get better.