I switched to a safety razor about 6 years ago. I have a really coarse and thick beard that ruins disposable razors quickly and so the cost of using the disposables was high. I got a merkur safety razor and really liked it. There is a learning curve with it. With disposables, you put more pressure than you need with a safety razor. Use very little pressure and let the blade do the work.
As for blades, there are a lot of choices online. After trying several different kinds, someone recommended Dorco blades on amazon. You get 100 for about $6 and they worked really well for me. I tried the brush and soap and liked it, but it takes more time and in the morning I may or may not have it depending on the day so I use Cremo shave cream which works well.
Best advice, use a wash cloth and hot water on your face for a minute or so, lots of soap/foam, go slow, pay attention to the angle of the razor, always go in a straight line. Expect a few nicks the first few times. You get good at it quick.
That sounds soothing. I almost always shave after a hot shower. That seems to do the job of conditioning my skin. It is noticeably different without a shower. I have plenty of time, so I might as hot wet cloth to my routine.
I have a thick beard like you. Disposable razors do not last long for me. It’s even worse if I skip a day shaving. That really dulls the blades. I get longer use if I shave everyday.