Thread: Recommendation?

First, I’d like to welcome you to SRP.


I’m glad to hear that you are considering switching to a conventional straight razor. With 25 years experience using an injector-style straight razor, this will do you well when you make the switch. A lot of problems for newbies is that they have to learn how to shave with a straight razor, so you are certainly ahead of the game in this regard. All you need to learn is how to properly strop and hone a straight razor. By reading the forums and asking questions you can certainly learn. In addition, I recommend that you purchase Lynn’s DVD, as it will show you everything you need to know starting out.


I find that a straight razor provides me with the best shave over all other shaving devices. Getting a good shave from a straight razor just takes practice. You can expect that by switching, your shaves will likely not be as good as the injector-style, but over time it will improve.

Stainless steel blades and carbon blades will both give you great shaves. I prefer stainless, but it’s just a personal preference. If you properly care for your razor, ensuring that it is dry before putting it away, you really don’t have to worry about water spots or stains.

The size of the razor is again a personal preference. A small blade will shave just as good as a larger blade.


Considering that your budget is limited, I recommend that you look in the classifieds section and buy an inexpensive razor that is honed. You can probably find a nice shaver for around $40. Next, you need to buy a strop. You can pick one up for under $40. My first strop was from here : http://www.vintagebladesllc.com/vshop/xcart/home.php?cat=102 You don’t necessarily need to buy a hone right away. If the razor is honed properly, you can go for 3 months just stropping alone. Once you do decide to buy a hone, I recommend starting with the Norton 4000/8000. For 6 months I used the Norton 4k/8k and strop exclusively and got very good shaves. From there you can invest in pastes, such as chromium oxide, and finishing stones, such as a coticule stone, to get even better shaves.

I hope this helps. Good luck and keep asking questions.