Thread: Newb question

Originally Posted by zarniuup

Hi everyone. I'm happy i found this forum, because otherwise i would be in a dead end right now. I spent hours reading and looking at razors and finally i feel educated enough to ask a question here

So i want to begin using a straight razor. The reason are many: more fun, cheaper (in time), more environmental friendly and so on.

I would like some advice on what blade i should get.

1. Stainless or carbon?
Which is better for beginner, and which is better for advanced?

2. What size?
longer/shorter, wider/thinner and what is the difference for beginners and advanced butchers ?
I guess the longer blades cover more area per stroke and the shorter are easier to shape different facial haircuts.
Also i think a shorter will be better for me because my face is kinda skinny and not at all roundish and easy to shave vast areas per stroke, but i may be wrong. I also like to leave a chin beard, which shouldn't be a problem with any razor, but again i may be wrong.

3. What price?
Should i get a cheaper, older and more worn out and ugly looking, or should i get a not so cheap old one, with good-quality and good looks, which i will use for longer time.
(i prefer the second option because i'm more eager to follow instructions carefully than having to look and buy again in time)

3. How hollow?
I have no idea of the signifficance of this.

Are these good for a beginner:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEBTOX:IT&i tem=300192937195&_trksid=p3984.cTODAY.m238.lVI
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEBTOX:IT&i tem=160202417364&_trksid=p3984.cTODAY.m238.lVI



I hope that's not too much info i'm asking for.

Cheers!

1/ Carbon. Easier to hone than stainless, and some say take a better edge.

2/ 5 eighths is a common size to find and a handy size to use.

3/ Old but in good condition. Best to buy two. You could also buy a junker if you want to practise honing.

3? Hollow ground razors are lighter and easier to hone, but wedges or half-hollow ground razors can still take a good edge. They are also more robust if knocked or dropped.

Revisors have a good reputation. Dovos are still made and expensive new, so likely to be less of a bargain on eBay even second hand.

P.S. It is very unlikely that if you buy a razor, new or old, it will be shaving-sharp unless you buy it from someone here. So having bought it, get it honed; by someone here unless you know an old barber or someone who actually uses one themselves.