Thread: New To the World of Straight Razors

Hello Everyone, my name is Darius, I am new to using a straight razor and was wondering if there were any tips anyone can give me. I use a safety razor regularly so I know some about using brushes and soaps, so the basics, but I do not know anything about a straight blade, as far as knowing if my razor is honed correctly, or how to use a strop things like that so any help would be much appreciated. I have a couple straight razors so far, I currently own a vintage J.R. Torrey, as well as a vintage Simmons Hardware Co. Barbers Pet. If anyone has any information about those razors Please let me know I am very interested to learn. I also have a Rolls.
The razor with the black scales is the Torrey, and the other is the Simmons.

You should probably start in the library and look up stropping there. There are a lot of threads on it, but you really should watch a video or two. As far as know if they are shave ready goes it is most likely that you will need to get them honed by a professional. There are quite a few, a bit more of a specific location is helpful for people that may want to help, and there are a lot of helpful people here. The Simmons has seen a lot of use. The Torrey is in much better shape. There is always the option of buying an inexpensive shave ready razor from the classifieds here. I hope you enjoy your stay here and learn everything you need to.

I found a nice video in the library

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYy3B3v8STo#t=89

I live in the Kansas City area, so if anyone knows of anyone that can hone a razor that would be very helpful. Here are some pictures of what they looked like when I purchased them, I'd say they are cleaning up pretty well.

if shaun has pointed you towards one of afdavis' videos (looks like it from the red shirt), then that is a good resource, there are of course many more who are very good too.
the advice to read the library is some i would also give, along with reading through the beginners and razor forums you will find a lot of common themes and answers.
as for stropping i would get the stroke in with razor replacement such as a butter knife or similar and a belt/ strip of fabric, that way you can be comfortable with the motion and the flip without doing anything any harm.

Send a private message to a member modine. He will treat you well.

Well, I'm not sure were to start with hints and tips. Not trying to blow you off but there is a LOT of good info here Beginner's guide to straight razor shaving - Straight Razor Place Library

As far as the razors go those are very nice figured scales. Even if you have to get rid of the razors try and salvage those. There are a few big fans of the Rolls Razor, but I don't have much info myself. J.R. Torrey is a well known American made razor. Good steel and holds an edge well. Simmons Hardware Co. did not manufacture there own razors but sourced them from various makers. That being said, I haven't heard any complaints about the steel. The Simmons looks to have quite a bit of hone wear. I'm sure it can be salvaged, but it might not be worth it IMO.

Looks like you have a great start. I would recommend updating your location to see if someone is nearby to give you a hand. One on one mentoring is the single most beneficial thing you can do. It is highly encouraged.

Welcome to SRP and Happy Holidays!

Matt

Here's a few videos that should help......from shaving to strops and stropping....and good prep and what to expect from a sharp razor.