We were all noobs once, always best to just post away so people can comment and give advise where they can to help.
If you have a question, ask it. If you have something to say, say it. Should a n00b topic offend someone, that someone doesn't "get it."
We were all n00bs once.
The primary reason I'd say to search is that there is a lot of good information in those old threads.
Now about that cold water shave ... ?
If you find a thread that is on the topic you wish to know more about I've found that a PM to one who had a knowledgeable post in the thread will always reveal more fruitful, on point and candid answers from the member. I've never been told to take a hike by anyone when using this method.
Post at will! Just don't tell anyone you like the smell of Arko!
... I now hesitate to post my (n00b) experiences as I have seen from other long-time members that the endless list of newbie topics that get posted again and again is somewhat irritating to the general membership and I would rather save myself the embarrassment of posting my first-time experiences ...