Thread: New guy

Hi,
I just wanted to introduce myself. I got interested in straight shaving a while ago. I did a bunch of reading and finally ordered a set from SRD. The brush didn't ship with the kit, so I got a cheapie at Wal-Mart. I went ahead and jumped in head first. My first shave was ok, but not great. I did cut myself, stupid point! Anyway I thought I would share my thoughts. First off my badger brush came two days after the rest of my set and I have to say, wow what a difference! Second, straight shaving is great; I doubt I will ever use anything else. Third, I might be odd, but after 10 shaves I have to say that I think stropping and making lather is more of a learning curve than shaving. I am now getting great shaves, but I will soon be in need of a new strop. I think my first few shaves would have been much better if I had used soap before. Now that I figured it out things are much better. Lastly, Lynn sure can hone a razor! My god that thing is sharp. Anyway, thanks for reading.

Welcome to SRP....There is a learning curve on everything from whipping up a good lather, to stropping, honing and shaving. Part of the fun. Turns regular everyday shaving upside down. Gives you something to look forward to. Our WIKI has a wealth of info, if you want to know anything specific about anything, What's a good shave cream, or how to hone, anything, Just ask, or drop me a pm.....

Rich

Welcome to SRD.
I find that during the day I am thinking about my next shave

Thanks guys. I agree it is all part of the fun, I was just surprised how tricky stropping can be. I have to admit that what was once a dreaded chore is now something I look forward to. I am thinking about my next shave already. I ordered some $1 samples from mamma bears, and can't wait to try them out. I have a hobby business working with leather, so I might just make a strop to replace the one I have cut the crap out of.

Stropping takes time, be patient and methodical in your strokes at first, speed will come. You can practice on an old belt. Many guys have cut up perfectly good strops.
Since you work with Leather, you probably will be able to make yourself a strop...

Sue over at Mama Bear's makes good stuff. She has lot's to choose from.
For good Glycerin based soaps, like Mama Bear's, give SRD a whirl. You'll be surprised at how good they are, Great Lather, etc....

My kit came with SRD soap. I do like it, but I figured $1 slivers would be a good way to try different flavors. I think I might make a paddle strop, maybe 3.5 inches wide, almost like a leather bench home. What do you think?