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  1. #11
    Senior Member xChris's Avatar
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    If you don't already have the other equipment, maybe a starter set from The Well Shaved Gentleman would be something to consider.

  2. #12
    Frameback Aficionado heavydutysg135's Avatar
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    If you just need the razor then I would go with a Dovo "Special" Tortoise in either the 5/8 or 6/8 size with the honing service. You will need to pick up a strop if you have not already done so, Tony offers the best quality and the best value. Bring whatever you get to the straight razor get together to show it off!

    David

  3. #13
    Senior Member Kenrup's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by mvforza View Post
    Chris, thank you for the advice as well as the welcome! I'm on ebay, looking around for a good vintage straight, and I found two that look nice. I wanted to post them to see if you guys think they're legit and if they are a good deal.

    Here are links to the two razors:

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=190201273736&ssPa geName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=009

    http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=140211682479&ssPa geName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=004
    Buying from eBay is a gamble at best. These razors will certainly not be shave ready. The Filarmonica will probably go for over $250.00 and the Henkels will sell in the $100.00 range and will need restoration.

    I usually recommend starting with a round point 5/8 razor. It's easier to handle and you will get more feed back from lighter razor then you will with a heaver blade at first. It is very common to go to a larger and heavier razor when you have learned to shave competently. Square points or spikes as they are called are fine to start with especially if you have facial hair you are currently sporting. The square point will intimidate some guys. The spike will give greater control and cleaner lines along your beard or mustache. There is a learning curve to shaving with a straight and taking a "short cut" will result in cuts.

    I highly recommend starting with a lower cost razor at first. It is also common for beginners to ruin the edge of a razor while learning to strop. It is highly recommend, by just about everyone, to get your first razor professionally honed. This is will give you a benchmark for sharp. Learning to sharpen or hone a razor and learning to shave is a very challenging task. Learn to shave comfortably first, then learn to hone. If you have not read this thread in the Newbie section I strongly suggest that you do. It will save you a lot of frustration and answer a lot of your questions.

    Those of us that do sell regularly on the B/S/T forum do state if the razor is shave ready or not and some listings will say "great first razor" or "for newbies". Some of us also warranty the edge so that when you do (not if) roll the edge or otherwise ruin an edge learning to strop the razor; you can get it honed again for just the price of return shipping.

    Is it worth all this hassle to get into straight razor shaving? You bet! I don't fume at having to throw my money away on the disposable cartridges. I get a much better shave. I don't ruin my shirt collars from weepers left behind from multi-blade razors. I rarely bleed at all. I have a lot of satisfaction from being able to do this classic and gentlemanly art. In my case as a restorer, I get satisfaction from restoring and using a razor that was already in use when Abraham Lincoln was president. I enjoy my morning shaves rather then begrudging a mundane task. Plus you have already discovered the community of exceptional gentlemen that are enthusiastic, helpful and supportive.

  4. #14
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    I had an extremely hard time using a 5/8 when starting, when it was very sharp. I have a really tough beard so the "feeback" was unnerving and harder to get it going. With a little more stout blade like the 6/8 and it made it more comfortable. A survey done on, I believe this site, showed by a vast percentage shavers like the 6/8 the most.


    Later,
    Richard

  5. #15
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    Well, Bismarck, it's interesting that you Bismarck should ask us so early which Bismarck razor we would recommend, Bismarck but I think if you take a look at the 6/8" Bismarck offering, you will be pleased.

    In case you missed it, I recommend the Bismarck. I've got nice razors from various ends of the price range, (David you know the ones) and the Bismarck I have is still one of my top 5 all time favorites, perhaps top 3. When it's tuned in the shave is ridiculously smooth and velvety.

    The others are good too, but IMHO the Bismarck is one you will not regret having.

    John P.

  6. #16
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    Quote Originally Posted by heavydutysg135 View Post
    If you just need the razor then I would go with a Dovo "Special" Tortoise in either the 5/8 or 6/8 size with the honing service. You will need to pick up a strop if you have not already done so, Tony offers the best quality and the best value. Bring whatever you get to the straight razor get together to show it off!

    David
    I wish I could go! I am starving to meet guys that have the str8 stuff!


    Richard

  7. #17
    In over my head kasperitis's Avatar
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    I got the Dovo Ebony (I got the round tip though) and love it. Of course, it's my first razor, but I've found it to be REALLY forgiving. Especially on the neck.

    I would say go with a nice Dovo. Also, take a look at the stainless steel Dovo's...the Micarta runs $160, but they're super nice blades.

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