Hello, I'm looking for a little advice on selecting my first razor (or two). From the info in the Library, and browsing some of the forum discussions, I've gathered that I want

  • Size: 5/8 or 6/8 (I've seen a suggestion that it is a little easier to establish the correct blade angle against the face with 6/8. Is this a big factor?
  • Grind: full hollow but not extra hollow (i.e. singing) (too springy)
  • Point: rounded or "blunted" (more on that below), not spiked
  • Source (first choice): a ready to shave razor found on the B/S/T forum here
  • Source (second choice): a new razor from one of the recommended brands


Does this cover the basics of what I should look for?

On the question of the point, I understand why I would not want to start with a spiked point. But there seem to be two kinds of square point blades. Some have a true 90 degree corner at the end, and some have a very small radius curve, much smaller than a round point, but not an angular corner. Do the really square ones count as spiked point blades, and would the ones with a rounded corner be considered "blunted", and perhaps acceptable for a beginner? And where do Spanish or French points fit in?

As for new razors, I see the only 3 recommended (other than custom builders) are Dovo, Thiers-Issard, and Böker. But what about Ralf Aust? They are not on the "avoid list". Are only their vintage razors recommended?