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Hello. I'm brand new to the world of straight razor shaving. I am interested in obtaining a razor with a bit of history to it -- vintage. Is this a good idea for a beginner? If so, what are your recommendations and what should I know? I considered purchasing a brand new razor, but it think I'd enjoy a more antique style and story to my blade. Thanks!
Get a true "Shave Ready" razor from a highly reputable honer
Period :)
The style, make, age, etc: etc: is your choice, getting a razor and then sending it out for honing/restoration is also an option but then you are responsible for finding a suitable razor... In my experience (IME) that doesn't always work out as well as many Newbs would hope for :(
Welcome to SRP :p
Check the classifieds on this forum for some good deals on well restored vintage razors.
In my own small mind, the vintage is superior to a new one because, since the vintage has been around for many years, it will be around for many more. A new one doesn't have that guarantee. :gaah: (Logic was never my strong suit).
Seriously, the vintage will give a shave equal to the new, and the history behind it is the bonus.
This is how I started. I recommend it. Best bet is to buy from the classifieds here at SRP. Look for "shave ready".
Spend time here in the forums and read up. Read the stickies. Use the search tool. Usually someone has already asked for what you are seeking, and you can find the answer without waiting for a reply.
See if a mentor lives near you.
Good luck, and welcome to the world of straight shaving.
Btw, I own 2 modern, and many vintage. I rarely shave with the moderns.
Where you at Ben?
I started with a trio of vintage; one I boldly bought off the bay and got DANG lucky with. The other two were hand-me-downs from my great and great great grandfathers.
Now I've got more blades than I want my wife to know about! They're all vintage and some of them have some quirks but they all shave fantastically. I don't know what I'd do with a new blade (though I did have the joy of finding a NOS Boker from the 30's that's one of my favorites).
Like others have said, see who is in your area, cruise the classifieds or see if a guy near by has a blade he'll sell you to start with. Once you're comfortable with all the variables and have some experience under your belt you can blow all the money you want (okay, well all the money you can get ahold of) on razors new and old.
Peace,
Jim