I use a safety razor too and I don’t really have these issues.

I can shave in any direction I want, no problem and just have to watch the angle of the blade if I want it to work properly and provide a close shave but not because I run the risk of cutting myself. Only thing I have to pay attention to in that regard is to NEVER move the blade perpendicular to the handle.

But in my experience, what makes the biggest difference is how the skin and beard is prepared. It all works so much smoother if I apply hot damp cloth beforehand or I shave right after a hot shower. Also a nice foam from a good shaving soap helps a lot as well as using a fresh blade.

But I can also just ignore all of that and go at it dry and with a months old blade. Only in that case do I have to be more careful and won’t get as nice a result. Probably helps, that I don’t have a very thick beard growth in the first place, though.

So yeah, looks like it can be a very different experience.

Oh but also the kind of razor make a difference. I once had a very light and tinny safety razor, that was barely useable. A nice stainless steel one with a heavier head is so much better.