Thread: Suggestions

Originally Posted by heyjude

Well, first I just thought "stainless steel" will be way more resistant to rusting than carbon steel and that just made me favor them. But checking the entires here I have seen people getting adequate results from both kinds. So I just have to make a chose

Sorry if I led you to think that stainless steel was in some way inferior to carbon steels, this just isn't the case. I just wanted to point out that pure carbon steel is not "worse" than stainless steel and that you shouldn't dismiss the carbon steel blades because you are under the impression tha they are Of a lower quality

Just a word of warning though, although they are called stainless steel they are by no means immune to rust. There are an incredible amount of different " stainles steels" out there and the type of steel used for fine blades is very different to what your knives and forks are made from and will rust much more easily. You won't for example be able to just leave the blade wet, stainless or not it will rust

Whatever you choose I'm sure you will be happy with any quality blade out there. As long as you look after it either carbon steel or stainless steel will serve you well

PS: as far as the razor you posted is concerned I don't feel that I have the knowledge to make a valid comment. The only thing I can say is that I do have a couple of pocket knives made from stainless silver steel which is what I think That razor isb. Made from and they do take a fantastic edge

As far as what to look for in a razor, buy the best you can afford. The dovo is a good choice. Scales are asthetic. Its a personal choice of style and type. Since it is your first you have no refrence to go by and you will be fine. Stroping can be done on the palm of your hand or the back of your arm if need be. Just make sure that the razor is "shave ready" when you buy it so you know what expect when you strop or hone. The only way I know to get a shave ready razor is to buy from some one who uses straights them selves and list as "shave tested". Cheap barber hones can be found on ebay for touching up the edge but shouldnt be needed for a while. There is several liftimes of knowledge avalible here in the forum as far as care and use of straights. Take the time and read. I was reading and researching for two months before I felt comfortable starting with a straight. Ive not looked back! Been a great investment and hoby every since! Take your time, learn and enjoy! It is a skill you will have to develop, but soooo worth it.

Thanks to all of you for useful comments, I have already watched a great deal of videos t know I should dry my blade after shaving

Also, from what I've seen buying razors on ebay is risky but when it comes to strops and gritstones it is ok? As far as i know gritstones aren't usually affected by build quality...

In, case my razor is not shave ready, how much would it cost for me to get it done and what type of shops would offer this service?

P.S. Why do people say things like, "my first razor"?
Is there any rational reason to get a new one assuming I didn't damage it during stropping and honing?

I am planning to use the razor I posted the details earlier forever, is there any reason I cannot do that? Does it being half-hollow matter? Assuming I do not break it