It all depends on the razor. For myself, I use a Merkur adjustable -- when my beard is really thick, I open up the gap a bit more. For normal shaves, I keep it tightened down. Also, it works best when you use a good shave soap and brush.

The main reason I started using a DE razor is I've found having a single blade is much more comfortable than the double / triple blades. And you can get just as good of a shave, but you need to take two - three passes (once with the grain, once cross grain, and a final one against the grain).

Shave at night! Not only slower and safer, but you wake-up with a lovely smooth face. Feels good to start the day smooth.

Wish I could, but I'd have to shave again in the morning. Keratin shoots out of my face like meat from a grinder.