So finally going to the straight razor..

...and i need a little advice. I have used straight razors before, one of my buddies is a barber, however I have never actually purchased my own setup.

I was thinking about getting semi-nice stuff, just because knowing me, if i didn't, i would want it in a few months. These are the razors i have been looking at:

DOVO Straight Razor Ivory Micarta Handle Stainless

and

DOVO Straight Razor Perlex Handle 5/8" Stainless Steel Blade

What suggestions would you have for razors, strops, stones, or other supplies you think i should get the first time around, for a reasonable amount of money?

What would you recommend I get that you wish you had when you started straight razor shaving?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated! :nj

Look into Tony Miller's strops. They're very well thought of here and most definitely built to last.

If you are sure you want to do this, go ahead and make the plunge. Nothing wrong with DOVO's, I have several and love them all. Love the ones with Micarta handles, I need to get one, but I think I'll go for the classic black.

welcome into the fray smooth t-


to start with make sure that the razor is hone by a honemeister (someone that really knows what they are doing). get a starter strop from tony miller (well groomed gentleman- i believe is the site). a decent badger brush and a good cream or soap and you should be set. try this set up for a while and see how you like it. from there you can step up and get hones and better equipment if you feel the desire. it would be disheartening to spend a ton of money and not enjoy it, so definitely start on the intro side of things. you can resell items (to newbies especially) when you upgrade.

let us know if you have other questions about the other items you might need.

cheers!
ryan

thanks guys this is all so helpful!

im very excited to start this new experience

if anyone else has any other tips feel free!:cool: