Quote Originally Posted by aaron1234 View Post
I'm not 100% sure how much it cost to have a razor restored these days but you might want to try ebay for for a vintage razor and send it out for restoration. I've picked up some very good razors this way. Just pay attention to hone wear, rust, and chips. My razor budget it's $50 and I own some really nice wade and butchers.
Sorry for reviving a thread that seems to be past its "fresh by..." date. But considering the experience level (or lack thereof) by both the OP & her boyfriend, eBay is NOT the route I would suggest. Insert the train of thought "WOW! This one looks nice, and it's only $15!?!! 'Gold Dollar'? Sounds fancy! And I don't even need to have it restored!" here...

And when he gleefully tries to shave with the Chinese ripoff of a "razor", and emerges from the shave with hamburger where his face used to be, it will have soured his view of this wonderful hobby.

Moral of the story is this: Straight Razor Designs is a great way to go for the $150~ish range for a razor & strop. You can shave some of that cost by picking out a round point razor here in the classifieds. The vast majority are shave ready, and the ad usually specifies if it isn't.

Btw, as you may be able to gleem from my profile, I'm in N.E. Indiana. I am still learning the nuances myself, but may be able to give some hands-on advice & tips. Had I had the opportunity, it would have likely helped quite a bit in the beginning .

I'm necroposting here, so maybe I should also send a message via pm or email...