Thread: Complete Novice

Originally Posted by BSM

I'm a complete novice to the world of straight razors and need some advice and help.

You've come to the right place.

Originally Posted by BSM

I've bought a Dovo of Solingen 'Bismarck' 5/8 ... Is this razor okay (from what I've read I think it should be)?

So should I.

Originally Posted by BSM

Is the razor sharp enough to shave with when it arrives? and if not can it be sharpened on a strop?(I realise that I need to strop before and after every shave)

No and no. It'll need a honing to get going and periodically as well, but the use of an abrasive pasted paddle strop will prolong the life of the edge between stone honings.

Originally Posted by BSM

When used correctly should it glide over the face or will there be more resistance that say a gillette razor?

Glide ... like a hot knife through butter. No pressure, no effort.

Originally Posted by BSM

What shaving creams/soaps should u use?

I like Colleen's stuff best right now. She's member churley, but there's lots of great products out there Like Crabtree & Evelyn (creams, not so much the soaps) Trumpers etc.

Originally Posted by BSM

With standard usage will I need to use the canvas side of the strop or will the leather side be sufficient if done before and after every shave and should the strop be held tight or allowed a bit of play.?

I like to use the canvas for a few gentle laps before going to the leather to warm up the metal with friction so it'll respond to the leather strop better. You don't need to strop after the shave but I usually do a few gentle laps, about a dozen after and 50-60 before the shave.

Originally Posted by BSM

Should I put anything on the blade to stop it from rusting after useage?

Air. Let it sit in the open for about 15 minutes before packing it away. If you can store it in cardboard or cedar to absorb residual moisture that's a good idea too. If you're going to leave it for extended periods, you might consider coating it in mineral oil, but only if it's perfectly dry.

Originally Posted by BSM

Do you have any tips or other useful information I should consider?

I wipe my blades down with rubbing alcohol after shaving to help keep them sterile.

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