Is it my technique?

[ak1m]

So I finally tried shaving again with my straight razor tonight, and the results were really unimpressive. Couldn't get it to shave my moustache, and though it was kind of nice to have it contoured to the shape of my jawline near the ears, I'm not sure that it shaved that area much better than my safety razor usually does. Felt flimsy the whole time I was holding it, and I'm not sure if it's because my hair is too wiry for the grind on this thing but I had to use a lot more pressure than I'm used to with the safety razor.

Thing is, I have an h boker co. extra hollow ground razor, and I didn't bother to strop it although it's been sitting (oiled) in a case for months. To be fair, I haven't used it since it was last professionally honed by a local seller/honer of sharp things who does sell shaving equipment, though I'm not sure what the opinion of others are regarding his skills with straight razors.

As things stand, I feel like the straight is too much work and maintenance for it to be worth it at this point in my life. But before I chuck it, any words of wisdom from you lot? Should I be more worried about not stropping before using a recently honed blade, or learning on a blade that's too thin? I'm on sabbatical, so not even a poor man's strop or cheap razor off craigslist for now.

 

[Kentos]

Most likely, yes, it's your technique. Very few first timers can truly utilize a sharp straight to its fullest. It is also common knowledge that a beginner is VERY hard on the fragile edge of a straight, and it is entirely possible you hosed the edge on your last shave.
That bein said stropping is essential to maintaining an edge, so without a strop you are almost doomed. Some suggest stropping on folding newspaper, but it takes many many laps for it to be effective.

Straight shaving is a highly satisfying hobby for me. I would re oil the blade and take it up again later when you can get a strop so you can get a fair try at it. Good luck !