Thread: Some general questions about razors

Before I go out and buy a razor, I would like to get some expert advice.
Im not sure weather to get stainless steel or carbon steel, or how hollow a blade to get. I have a fairly thick and very coarse beard and am very prone to razor bumps, which is part of why Im interested in straight razor shaving. any suggestions?

Welcome to SRP.

You are correct about a straights helping with the bumps. If you do some reading you will find a 5/8 or 6/8 round point is a good starter. It was for me. Razors are like cars or trucks, everyone has their opinion of what is best. You have to try different razors to find which ones you like best.

Any straight that is sharp will give you a good shave when done correctly. The trick is learning how to use a straight correctly. It is important to start out with a properly honed razor. That eliminates one variable that challenges you during the learning process.

Take a look at the WIKI for proper prep and shaving techniques for new straight users. It is loaded with info that will help you.

As far as stainless or carbon steel, both are fine. I like stainless but many don't. That is why they make Fords and Chevy's. You have a choice.
Good luck,
Rick

Welcome to SRP. The 5/8 round point razor is a very common razor with which to learn str8 shaving. 6/8 round point razors are also very good. The full hollow will probably be your best bet. To eliminate bumps, I use a post shave routine of running an alum block over my face.

FYI, there is a North Texas razor gathering August 8th in Dallas. Join us and get the low down on your particular shaving questions.

Thanks, Ill definitely hit up the North Texas razor gathering.
Where is that going to take place?

Concerning the DFW get together, take a look in the General forums. In that forum is a sub forum called Get Together and Meetings. In that forum find the DFW get together. All the info is there.

Rick

Hey Superlocrian! From one noob to another, Welcome. Another thing that helped me make some choices is if you google Razor Central. The wiki has a link somewhere too it, but it easier just to google it. Helped me out; hopefully it will help you out too.

P.S. Superlocrian is a great mode.

Cheapest option is to look at the classifieds and buy a shave-ready razor. If you don't like it you can sell it at a minimal loss unless you damaged the razor. Get a cheap practice strop (Tony Miller, Kenrup) and you can be in business for less than 100$.

Originally Posted by Kees

Cheapest option is to look at the classifieds and buy a shave-ready razor. If you don't like it you can sell it at a minimal loss unless you damaged the razor. Get a cheap practice strop (Tony Miller, Kenrup) and you can be in business for less than 100$.

+1 with this. I wouldn't get hung up over whether or not a razor is stainless or just carbon steel right now. You don't have enough experience yet to make an informed decision. You can get a razor from the classifieds at a very good price. It will not be a junk, or throw away, razor. Our members have reputations to protect. It will be an excellent razor at a good price. Once you get some experience and figure out what you really want, you can pursue that avenue.

If you would prefer a new razor, then contact Kenrup (a member here) or SRD (one of the owners is our founder). Both sources are great to work with and will sell you a very good razor that is shave ready. No matter where you end up purchasing your razor ensure it is truly shave ready. In some instance you might have to pay extra for the honing service. Many of our vendors sell them pre-honed and shave ready. Always ask first. If you purchase one from the classifieds the ad will state if the razor is shave ready or not. I would advise not spending $80-$100 on your first strop. You will nick it, or even put a pretty good cut in it. It comes as part of the learning process. Start with a less expensive, but still good quality, strop as your first one. Proper stropping is a skill you will need to develop in addition to the shave itself.

P.S. Superlocrian is a great mode.[/QUOTE]

Yessir, one of my favorites

I like the 5/8 Dovo Tortoise which was my first fixed straight. Good bang for the buck and it does it all well: looks good, shaves well, and takes an edge well. Its within your price range for a new one.

Most of my razors are full hollow and one is a 1/4 hollow. All shave well and feel/sound a little different, but nothing major. Starting out, stay with the 5/8 or 6/8 as they are easier to handle than the 7/8 or 8/8.

A sharpened blade, good prep, and a decent technique will cut through all hair.

Welcome to SRP and enjoy the learning curve. Although challenging, its exciting!

Pabster