Thread: Number of Razors to Start

Mark,

So are you advocating giving in to the inevitable RAD and purchase multiple razors to begin with?

Originally Posted by Jfala

Thank you all for the great advice, much appreciated. I am fortunate enough that budget restraints is not an issue; however I don't just want to spend money just to spend.

If I were to get two razors to start, would it be better to get the same size but different grind or different sizes irrespective of the grind?

Let's say a 5/8 half-hollow and a 6/8 square point full hollow?

That would work. You could also get one new Dovo or TI and one nicely restored vintage. As long as you get a couple of good quality shave ready razors I don't think all the little details matter that much. I would avoid extremes while learning - really big razors or really small ones.

After a couple of months you'll probably give in to the RAD and end up with a bunch of different razors and a wife/gf/whatever asking why you "need" another razor . So grab a couple of practical razors and go to town!


Jordan

As long as you have some "backup" way to shave (don't throw away the electric yet!), you won't need more than one razor. However, it won't be long before that "backup" will need to be another straight.

- Scott

Jeff,

I don't think anyone can tell you what razor will be best for you... only you can determine that. Lots of factors enter into the decision... beard type, mustaches/beards/goatees. face shape/irregularities, etc. Jordan is right that the subtleties don't matter much in the beginning. ANY decent razor will give you a great shave if it's sharp and you have a good technique. I generally recommend a 5/8 or 6/8 round point (any grind) for a first razor. After you get good with that, then you'll be ready to try variations in size, grind, and points.

Originally Posted by Jfala

So are you advocating giving in to the inevitable RAD and purchase multiple razors to begin with?

Nope. I'm definitely of the mind that you can make do quite happily with one. The only reason why I got a second was because I hadn't got my first honed professionally. I needed the reassurance of a properly sharp straight so I could focus on shaving techniqe, prepping, stropping etc. The learning curve is steep enough without having to worry about honing your first blade! If I knew then what I do now I would have had the blade honed by Lynn first.

I don't think you can get better advice than to focus on a single blade which has been properly honed.

I bought other razors because I am weak. And I defy anyone to turn down the chance of buying cheap Polish razors that everyone says can be great shaves. Just from the perspective of having cheap blades on which to practice your honing skills it's worthwhile.

Weak or not having a "cheaper" razor to practice honing on at some point is also a thought that has crossed my mind. Another reason to have 2 to start. I just have the feeling that I will probably screw-up the blade at some point unintentionally and need another to shave with.

Well, I ended up purchasing 2 razors from a couple of fine SRP members (thanks Brendon and Rich!)

A very nice 9/16 W&B with great scales and a 11/16 Chris Johnson half-hollow.

Thanks to all for your advice, I needed it.

Now, off to strops...

You got yourself a couple of very nice blades

Thanks. Can't wait to use them.