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First let me give a bit of background information.
I am a student with an EXTREMELY tight budget, I have bought these two razors off the internet both under $10
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They both were purchased for the low price, however, the reason I got two was because the second has disposable blades.
So I have the razors, what's next?
Welcome to SRP!
The first place to start, and definitely the most beneficial would be in the Wiki (click on the "Library" link at the top of the site). There you can start learning about technique in shaving, building lather, etc. as well as the things to avoid, especially when starting out.
With that said, if you have a specific question that you can't figure out from there, by all means feel free to ask. Everyone here is super helpful and friendly.
Now, about your razors...
The one in the first picture I have a sneaking suspicion will not be quality steel, and therefore won't hold the keen edge needed for shaving. Without knowing the brand, I can't say for sure, but unless it was a custom piece, I don't believe there are many manufacturers of new razors making such a blade.
The one in the second picture is what's referred to as a shavette, and could do you just fine to get your feet wet in learning shaving technique as well as being able to practice building your lather. Lots of folks here, including myself, started with a shavette and made the transition to a proper straight razor after learning. With this, you won't need to learn stropping just yet, and having a super keen edge will be beneficial. Just be aware that most of the time the blades in a shavette do not give as smooth of a shave as a straight razor (smooth as in comfortable, not as in close) and you will most likely be cut more easily by a shavette blade.
You certainly can get started with the shavette and a shaving brush along with a good shave soap or shave cream. DO NOT try and use canned shaving foam such as Gillette or Barbasol, as this is made of mostly air. Shaving with a straight razor or a double edged safety razor (which a shavette uses half of a double edged blade) is part of what's called "wet shaving". You need to use a brush and a soap/cream mixed with a bit of water to get a comfortable shave.
Again, welcome and feel free to ask for help should you need it... that's why we're all here. :)
Thank you crouton!
Any suggestions for cheap razors you're aware of that are quality?
Both of these were about 10 dollars or under.
I've also ordered a strop and a brush at the same time; I am most likely going to end up with a lot of these razors over time, I love the concept and I see I'm not the only one who enjoys the idea of collecting these.
I would like to source my shave soap or cream locally, where would be the best types of places to be searching for?
Also, as the straight in the first image is the only one to have arrived at the moment, what sort of steps would be required before it and myself will be shave ready?
Welcome. The more experienced guys will be along shortly. But I would echo what crouton said. That first razor for $10...odds are very good that it is not an effective razor for shaving. It could just be for show and not even meant to be used as a straight razor. You have a lot of reading and research to do my friend. There is a wealth of information on this board as well as others. Just do a search and read all you can. Also the stickies in this forum for beginners should definately be read before you do anything. Otherwise, you will have a very dissapointing and blood filled experience! No one wants you to have that.
The best thing you can do is buy a vintage razor that is shave ready for cost effectiveness and usability. I would recommend the classifieds of this board to you. You should be able to get a decent one for $35-70 that will make your experience much nicer. Or if you are wanting something new and really nice you could visit one of the trusted vendors like Straight Razor Designs, West Coast Shaving etc.
Also, shavettes are generally much less forgiving than straight razors of technique. Though they are much easier to maintain. There is a tradeoff for the convenience. Again, I invite you to read all you can about the differences between them. You will get lots of great advice here but the best thing you can do for yourself is do a ton of research and read all you can before you dive in.
Take care and keep us posted.
Well, it certainly depends on your budget...
See my post here (click me) for some tips regarding starting on a budget. Just a quick browse of the classifieds section here shows two razors that are under $50 before shipping.
As for getting the one in the first photo shave ready, I wouldn't even try unless you can get confirmation of it being a good brand. Like I said before, it's most likely not, and in the end, most pros wouldn't even consider honing it because it would leave you with such unsatisfactory results.
The best advice I can give you is wait for the shavette and learn all you can until it arrives. Feel free to buy as much gear as you'd like, but do your research first to be sure it's good quality. Also, in terms of buying gear, I'd stay away from hones until you've learned to shave well, and even at that, start small with refreshing a blade before moving on to full on edge restoration. Shaving with a straight razor requires you to slow down and think about how you're shaving, especially while you're learning. The start of that slowing process is learning patience.
One of the senior members here, gssixgun, has a saying he uses in regards to honing, but it applies across the board- slow is smooth, smooth is fast.
I hope I don't come off as being condescending, just trying to give you honest and straightforward advice. The learning curve before you is tough enough without having bad advice or candy coating. It's certainly not a steep learning curve, at least for most, but there's no point in adding frustration to the task at hand. Just read, ask and learn and above all else, take your time and enjoy the ride. :)
Let's at least get you started off with a real Shave Ready razor
This is a nice 1/2 hollow 5/8 Roundnose "Royal Blue"
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Fire me a PM with your address and it is yours free...
I will get it on the hones later today..
Many thanks to Fred K. for getting it to me specifically for this reason :tu
Try and get your money back one the first "Straight Razor" we call those RSO's or Razor Shaped Object's :(
Splat725, I mean no disrespect, but you'd be a fool to turn this one down...
Glen, you are, indeed, the man!:beer1::rock::tu
WOW!!! Just wow! very generous Glen.
Your local chemist/ pharmacy should have basic shaving soap or cream.Quote:
Originally Posted by Splat725
Supermarkets also carry it in the shaving bit.
loss for words......
Just make sure you PM Glen! An offer like this doesn't roll around every day. The razor you get from him will be shave ready...to say the least.
Splat725
Contgratulations on starting with a straight. Unfortunately if the first razor is made by Knight or a similar brand it is only good for cutting your steak. They are extremely heavy and do not hold an edge.
The second a shavette is worth it for starting out. If you enjoy using a straight you might consider a Ralf Aust or a Timor for starters. They are inexpensive and do a fine job.
Whatever you decide good luck and welcome to the world of straight razor shaving.
Splat:
What my friend has offered you is a gift that should be readily accepted!!! Not only is he a Senior Mod, but he’s one of the best honers around!!! It’s an excellent razor and will be sharpened Totally Shave Ready!! Send him your address, buy a $10 beginner’s brush/soap/bowl kit and enjoy the ride.
After the first shave you will need a strop. Check here:
Amazon. Look for Illinois 827 strop. It comes with free shipping.
This will serve you well for many years! I use it as an initial strop after I hone.
Please take Glen up on his generous offer!
Generosity abounds on this forum and is what makes it stand out from a lot of places. Bravo.
hello qssixgun
You are an outstanding dude. Very generous, much respect.
Luis
I'm definitely siding with everyone else here! Glen you are a champion!
Also, I have just had a look at the top straight, and the brand it Whetstone cutlery!
A big+ for Glen. I say pm him!
++1 to Glenn for being a great guy! You're awesome brutha....
