Thread: My first Straight Razor kit

I've been researching for a while now, and i've started to put together my first Straight Razor shaving kit. I drive a Peterbilt full time, so i was looking at ways that i could still have a real shave even when i'm over the road, so the idea was to try and minimize my equipment and reduce preparation times so i'm not taking a long time in truck stops. I decided to skip the brush and soap method for now, and go with shaving oil for over the road use. In the meantime, i will be researching brushes, soaps and pre/post treatments so i can have a luxury shave when i get home.

Here's what i have put together so far...

I'm originally from Yorkshire, so i would like to start a collection of razors from back home at some point, but for now i've decided that i'd like to go with an ERN collection, so i got a few Crown and Sword razors. I got the white one to use as my daily workhorse, and the other 2 boxed razors to start an unused collection, although maybe i'll start a rotation with all 3 razors. The 2 boxed razors are in the post, so i'm eagerly awaiting there arrival!

I decided to go with Lynn Abrams Modular Paddle Strop. It seems perfect for over the road use, and i love the concept of this strop. The design and quality of this strop is amazing.

I went with Village Barber shaving oil and shaving balm. As i mentioned above, this will help me reduce the amount of kit i'm taking around with me, and reduces preparation times.

Thanks to the forum for all of the valuable information. I think i'm ready to take my first real shave.

Nice razors. Looking at the oil and balm bottles I'm thinking that a brush and soap stick or tube of cream would take less room. Just need a tap and face lather. Will likely give a better shave too.

Plus, they won't leak everywhere if they get busted.

Welcome to the forum RiseAbove. We are happy to have you here. I think you have put together a great kit considering your long distance driving. The Ern's you picked out will serve you well and you may want to consider having them honed by a pro if they do not come to you shave ready. Your personal experience as you begin this razor journey will give you time to think about anything you may want to change.

There is a ton of information here for you to mine and do not hesitate to ask any questions you have and stay safe on your out on the road.

Thanks for the replies guys.

I will hopefully be upgrading to a brush and soap shortly, i just need to do a little more research on what to buy.

I figured it would maybe be a little easier to use the oil if i shave in the actual truck with minimal water and no equipment to clean up. Another reason for getting the oil was so i can see a little better whilst detail shaving as i have a short beard at the moment.

Thanks lz6. Yeah, i'm thinking of getting all 3 razors professionally honed, i don't want to get out of my depth and try that myself just yet. They seem like amazing razors for sure.

I traveled extensively for years and still do, just got back from 6 days on the road on a bike. I have to take minimal equipment because if room, there is plenty for a brush and soap, and your not going to get the shave that your looking for in a straight with just the oil, it'll be ok, but may as well keep the cartridges.

As for researching, just get a decent low cost brush in badger for your kit or even better a decent synthetic which is my choice for travel cause it drys really fast, and then a tube of soap, Arko or I use La Togia. Also hope you've got a strop, and if I may suggest with your situation, maybe a paddle strop like the modular one from SRD

Good luck. Tc

I'll definitely be upgrading to the brush and soap, it seems like the best way to get the closest shave.

I bought the very strop you mentioned...it seems perfect for travelling and it's a very well made and practical piece of kit.

Do you have any suggestions on brush brands? I'm not wanting to lay down too much cash right out of the gate, but i would like something that will last and do a good job.

I'll hopefully be back out on the bike for some long rides myself this year. I used to travel 2 wheels around Europe. It's time to explore the states on 2 wheels.

I,m not the right guy to ask about brushes cause I've spent a fortune on mine, but I do love them, but maybe if Bobh comes along he can help, he knows good value in brushes. Plus if you do go synthetic they don't cost a lot, I know Semogue is reasonable and good quality. Tc

I might go with a synthetic brush for the reason you mentioned about the quick drying times. That would be a handy trait whilst travelling.

I agree with everyone else. Get a brush and some soap. Plenty of brushes to choose from on eBay. I have an Omega synthetic and a Parker badger that I use on the road. I didn't pay much more than twenty dollars for either one and they both have lasted years. Even WalMart sells a VDH badger brush for a very reasonable price.
After you get a brush go to any pharmacy and get a large pill bottle to use as a case. There's one size that fits a brush almost perfectly. Drill a few small holes on the top and bottom for airflow and your done.
Hope this helps. Good luck!

Pete <:-}