Thread: First razor recommendations

Hello, I'm wanting to get my first straight razor and don't know where to start. From what I've read on here a recently honed second hand razor seems to a good bet? I would like something that I can learn on, but grow into as well. I'm open to all suggestions. Budget would be around $200. Thanks!

Originally Posted by unlisted

Hello, I'm wanting to get my first straight razor and don't know where to start. From what I've read on here a recently honed second hand razor seems to a good bet? I would like something that I can learn on, but grow into as well. I'm open to all suggestions. Budget would be around $200. Thanks!

Where are you from? There's the classifieds here on SRP, a variety of vendors here to look at. You could go new and get something like a Revisor 6/8 (convert prices to local currency and subtract 19% for prices, email them for questions, quotes and orders), some guys also restore vintage razors and sell them.

I'm in the USA. Do you have experience with the Revisor? If so, what would make that a good first blade? I certainly want quality, and I have worked with knives, but I don't know if my experience is up to straight razor standard as far as not messing up an expensive razor learning to maintain it. Although, it's just a carbon steel blade…

Originally Posted by unlisted

I'm in the USA. Do you have experience with the Revisor? If so, what would make that a good first blade? I certainly want quality, and I have worked with knives, but I don't know if my experience is up to straight razor standard as far as not messing up an expensive razor learning to maintain it. Although, it's just a carbon steel blade…

Yes, I have a Revisor. A lot of guys recommend Dovos as a first razor, but I honestly find revisors to be better value. I find them to be nicer razors, both in shave and aesthetics, and I like their prices a lot better. They also have a huge selection, as well as a selection of decently priced new old stock vintage razors. You could probable find one in your price range. Vintage would shave better than a new production, although I like how new revisors shave better than new dovos (I have both as well as vintage).

with that budget you should be able to acquire a nice new or used razor. don't forget to get a strop. also be sure to watch the videos on the u tube on straight shaving. theres good info there not only on shaving but how to strop and maintain on your razor. the folks on the forum is a world of good info. from what I've read there is somewhat of a shortage of new razors so don't get discouraged. the classified here has some nice blades from time to time. everyone is different and what you start with may not be what you keep but it was easier for me when I started to use a 5/8 round point hollow ground. just remember there is a learning curve so take your time and enjoy.

Originally Posted by kwlfca

Vintage would shave better than a new production, although I like how new revisors shave better than new dovos (I have both as well as vintage).

If you don't mind my asking, why is that?

Originally Posted by unlisted

If you don't mind my asking, why is that?

Some say it's the steel. New productions are good, but vintage razors are excellent.

From my experience you can get a great restored vintage razor for around 100 bucks. Leaving you some cushion to buy other things you need.(strop,soap,brush) I find the quality with vintage razors to be superior than the new ones. Not sure why exactly but I think its because most modern techniques or developed to cut cost which usually leads to a drop in standards.

I'm not sure if you have any experience at all with straight razors but I really recommend you purchase a razor with a rounded tip. (round tip or barbers notch) I personally would try to avoid spanish or square. If the pressure you apply is a lil off towards the tip it makes it much easier to cut yourself. Its not impossible to be successful with those points but I think it adds a lil stress to the experience.

If you prefer a Dovo, I think there's one up on the classifieds here....it might come with a strop too!

I would look on the classifieds for a good vintage razor and stay away from the buzz word brands. A good vintage piece from Germany will do you fine and shouldn't cost too much. Later on you can buy new once you learn more.

There are plenty of bargains on Eboy along those same lines IF you know what you are looking at and what to watch out for.