It will not cut the hair by simply passing over the blade. I shaved using my new razor today (first time with a str8 razor) *Total Damage* - about ten cuts to my face. None of them a big deal but, because I a new to this I am now thinking the razor was not sharp enough although it was supposed to be "shave ready - pre-sharpened". I have stropped this razor for over an hour after watching numerous You-Tube videos and reading "The-Straight-Razor-Shave" PDF file. The razor is a brand new DOVO Bismarck Straight Razor 6/8". Am I too much of a newbie and cut myself because I have no technique? Or do I need to hone this first? Give me some advice or just laugh as I cut myself daily - Love Ben