J.R.B., that's a remarkable accomplishment! I've never heard of a lifetime of shaving with a straight razor. At the risk of being too personal, I'm curious to know why you preferred it to safety and electric razors. Easier with a beard, farming away from reliable electricity, family tradition?
The main reason I use a straight is for a close shave. My family genetics have a history of incredibly tough beards. To get a proper Sunday morning Church shave I need what's called a "three pass". Once with the grain, once across the grain, and finally once against the grain. I will admit that as a young boy it was to be a smart ass but it quickly turned into a necessity. Do yourself a favor King, go find a barber that will give you a real hot towel straight razor shave and you will see my point. It's a luxury every man should enjoy at least once in his life.
