Your question is probably the most difficult to answer properly, even though it seems as though it should be straightforward. I've been on these boards for several years and I still don't think there's ever been a definitive answer to this question. Let's face it, if we could accurately describe in words what a "proper" edge feels like for all men for all time, we'd probably all have found it by now. I know I have not.

Variables matter: grind, steel, size, weight, balance, prep, lather, stretching, stropping, angle(s) to name a few. And not the least of these, as Lynn mentioned above and which I heartily concur with, is user experience. It is one of those dastardly catch 22s that life throws up at us: it is fairly vital to know what a "proper" edge feels like when we are relatively inexperienced, but a full appreciation of what "proper" actually entails only comes with experience!

Everyone has given good tips I think as to what works for them. I'll just add that what a "proper" edge feels like when you are new also depends on what you've come from in the past: A DE or a Mach 3-type razor have perhaps what? 1.5 inch edge? Most straights have around a 3 inch edge length, so you should expect more resistance due to surface area.

A proper edge should not hurt or pull, but be aware that an inexperienced shaver can, by dint of incorrect angles and lack of stretching etc, make a good edge hurt or pull. A good edge should not require multiple passes to get all the whiskers, but be aware that an inexperienced user may, by dint of of incorrect angles etc., take multiple passes with a good edge. And so on and so forth.

So finally, to make a long story short (too late! ), the advice you've been given to get your razor honed by a trusted professional is really very logical and pragmatic, and specifically designed to help you get the most out of your straight razor experience early on in the piece. Of course you don't have to take the advice, but progress will be slower as you try to sort through all the variables trying to determine if it is you or if it is the edge.

Good luck to you.

James.