Thread: No0b with lots N' lots of questions

Originally Posted by schwartr

Hi all, I'm another noob with lots of question. Yes, I have done research but until I found this site Ive been wondering thru numerous websites and am glad to have found one with all the info in one place. Ill try to ask my question in a clear and concise fashion:

1. Is there a particular razor that stands out as far as durability and functionality? Im looking at DOVO since I like german made items and they seem to have a wide variety of styles/prices. A matter of opinion here but Dovo is a fine quality razor

2. What is the difference in strops? Again I was looking at DOVO strops and saw they have 35-80$ strops? What is the difference in them? Will a 35 dollar strop work as well as the 80 dollar one? The thickness and quality of the leather, TM strops are a cut above thats why so many recommend them and you can get his with a starter strop that will take the brunt of the learning process I have owned 2 Illinois strops also, one that is still in service since 1982...

3. Brushes. Whats up with them. There is a huge price variation between them (anywhere from 2-300+ dollars). I have heard so much good things about badger brushes that Id like to get one. The one I was eyeballing is a 35 dollar Vulfix badger brush. SO what is the difference between the 35 dollar Vulfix and the 400 dollar Rooney shaving brush? The quality and amount of bristles is the main difference here silver-tips being the softest and most comfortable on the face, but not necessarily the best for soaps..
I personally love the Shavemac but that is just my opinion...

4. When honing- what do you prefer (grit wise?) I have heard various options about this and most conflict with each other. Will the 12000 grit sharpen well or is it mainly for polishing? Bevel setting 1k sharpening 4k, polishing 8k anything more is just fun these are of course approximate grits.. they can vary slightly

5. Is strop paste necessary? Can I just strop before and after each shave with out the paste and use a stone for sharpening as needed? No it's not necessary but it does help...

6. Cream or soap? what do you prefer and why? Ive never used either (besides the aerosol cream) and wonder what is the main difference. All opinion try some and see what you like

7. what size blade do you prefer and why? 6/8 is the most popular size but each razor and each face is different

Thats all I can think of for now
Thanks
Robert

That is the best I can do

And I see Jimbo types faster hehehe