ofafeather:
...There's no razor, cream, soap, or brush that can compensate for bad technique....
Great point. Still working on mine. Just wanted to point out that people arrive at Wet Shaving in different ways. I was already somewhat involved (albeit very ignorant) based on the shaving tools that I had inherited from my dad. Other approach it and are starting from foam and Mach 3s, etc. I was looking for more soap, then found out about the brush and proper lather technique and the fact that Wet Shaving was really about water (duh?). Just coming from different places.
My brother-in-law is coming from the other place, which is why I thought this might be great for him. I lent him Leisure Guy's book and after that he was very interested.
I like the fact that not only are your suggestions wallet friendly, but they really help cut down on the variables so you can focus on technique. Keep it up.
Eric