Thread: Total beginner razor selection - any insight would be appreciated!

Hello all!

Brand new to the forum and totally brand new to straight razor shaving. I've been researching and reading up for a few weeks, and I feel like I'm ready to take the plunge. Luckily I can pass off the expenses as a "graduation gift" to myself--I'm graduating with my bachelor's degree in a couple months.

I have a pretty good idea as to what I want in a razor. I'd like a good learning razor, but one that helps me learn effectively (like a full hollow rather than a semi-hollow). I've looked at quite a few, and it's come down to either a brand new razor in the $100-$120 range, or an eBay special. It appears that most Dovo and Ralf Aust razors are out of stock on pretty much every website I can find. I did find this Dovo, but it is literally the only one in my price range that I can find:

http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthr...ies-quot-razor

I also found this on ebay:
Vintage RARE Eskilstuna "Guldmedal" 13 16" Straight Razor Shave Ready | eBay


I'd like something interesting but also a daily user. Does anyone have any thoughts on the razors above or any others they'd recommend? Are there any reputable ebay sellers I should be taking a look at? I checked out the classifieds on this site, and there are only a handful of options there, and none of them really strike my interest, and many are out of my price range. Any and all suggestions/tips would be perfectly welcome.

Thanks!

- Jake S.