Thread: I need a decent razor.

I have recently discovered that there is a better shave to be had than with a gillette fusion. I found this out with a cheap safety razor I found on ebay. Then I found all kinds of soaps and creams to go along with it. Then I upgraded my DE and was having a wonderful time with it until this morning when I was rudely awakened by a bleeding face with a bad case of razor burn, which, as far as I can tell, comes from the fact that my girlfriend also thinks that my new razor is better suited for raking her legs than whatever disposable she's been using. I have since made all my blades disappear, but, as far as a long-term/permanent solution to this shaving war that's been started that doesn't include me growing my beard out as I have to look clean cut for work, I would like to move onto a straight edge razor. I am hoping not only for the best shave than can be obtained, but also for a system my girlfriend might not be willing to use.

Like I said, I am new to the straight edge shaving world and could use some guidance along the lines of purchasing a decent blade. I have heard that a full hollow ground would be best. I think this is because it would be easier to hone and it should also hold an edge better. And I've heard that a stainless blade will hold an edge longer. From what I've read in posts and forums here on the internet, a 5/8 blade should do the trick. This size should not only give me a good baseline to start from as far as buying other razors, but it is also a common size and should therefore be easier to find and a little less expensive than some of the other sizes. Another thing I've heard is that it might be a good idea to get a rounded point to avoid slicing myself up. I bought a timber rattler brand razor at about the same time I bought my first safety razor, but I'm not sure that this will provide the best results. I just bought a new hone and am waiting for it to get shipped so I can get a nice polish on the blade before I bring it anywhere near my face.

So, if somebody would let me know if my logic is flawed somewhere along the way before I disfigure myself, I would appreciate it. And, if somebody could tell me where to find a decent razor for under 50 bucks, it sure would make my day.

There are some good razors in the classified section of the forum. In addition, Kenrup sometimes has some Wapi razors for sale at a very reasonable price.

Welcome and let us know if we can be of any help at any time!

oh, and can somebody tell me why i can't connect to the chat?

Considering what our girlfriend did to your DEs, you had better keep the str8 under double locks with your other stuff. She probably won't know that the razor can be made into junk by dropping it, your strop can be ruined easily too.... and you may have to start calling her "Shorty"!

Cliff,

You might want to get Lynn's CD on straight razors. It's been an invaluable aid to me. He gives some great guidance and a starting point. In fact, he says that each person will find what works best for them. But start with his methods and go from there. Like most everything in life we learn by experience. And the only way to get experience is to actually dive in and do it. I doubt many of us were born with the innate ability to pick up a straight razor and shave perfectly with it the first time...

Dan

My suggestion would be to go out to ebay or local antique stores and look for a Lady Gillette or do a search for "ladies razor". I found one for my wife and another for my daughter, they have blue handles with stars on them. I have also seen a pink one like that. Pick her up a Cheap badger brush, Twezzerman sells one for about 10-15 bucks online, get a mug and present it to her. If she has her own then she should leave yours be. Once you have a straight razor if she shows any interest ask her if she wants one, if so hit the classifieds here again for her. Remember, the ladies like a smooth shave as well

Bob

I also believe that Lynn's DVD is phenomenal. The money you spend on the DVD will, at least IMHO, save you ALOT of frustration. Although not new to straights and a sharp knife fanatic, I really thought I had the honing task well in hand. Lynn's DVD will really help you get on the right track. My only advice is DO NOT expect to master this skill without patience and dedication to detail. You will be rewarded. If you could possibly spend a little more, I think you'd really benefit from a carbon steel DOVO ,honed by Lynn or one of the other vendors here. DON'T LOSE HOPE!

Great advice so far - as usual

A full hollow 5/8 is something of a "standard" size and is a good place to start. That said, I don't think full hollow, half hollow or quarter hollow will make that much of a difference. They feel a little different, but they all accomplish the same thing and I don't think one is easier or better to use than another. I'd stay in the 5/8-6/8 size to start.

Its common advice to start with a round point and I can understand why its given...but...I'm glad I learned to shave with a SP. IMHO, its better to get used to the SP while you still have a healthy fear going than after you've gotten comfy with a RP. That's just me though.

What kind of hone did you get?

Jordan

The one I just recently acquired was a shapton water stone. It is the 12000 grit. I've always used a dry hone, but I've heard good things about the water stones and figured I'd give one a try. I don't know how much of a difference it will make or if I will be able to feel a difference over the stones I have. I will say that I'm a big fan of being able to feel a stone grab hold of the blade when sharpening. As this hone is supposed to be a polishing stone, I don't know if I will be able to feel much, if at all. But this type/brand is supposed to be a fast cutter, so, here's hoping. I hear these ceramic stones are supposed to last a while, and, for the money, I cetainly hope it will. Also, this will be my first time sharpening a razor blade. I think it might be easier than a pocket knife as I don't really have to worry about the angle as much as long as I keep it in contact with the stone/keep the right pressure.

I have found a razor and am still waiting for it to get to me in the mail. I might have it by this weekend if I'm lucky. I don't think I can wait until this weekend to try out my new hone, so I'm going to try and find something I've sharpened before and see how it works. If anybody has any advice as far as water stones go, I would appreciate it.

Well, I've tried out my new stone and it seems to work pretty well. It does cut somewhat fast, and it leaves almost a mirror finish on the blade of a cheapo razor I have, with minimal effort at that. I can only imagine what the 30000 grit would be like. Now, if only my razor and strop would hurry up and get here...