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.