Thread: straight shaving is going to be awesome

I just ordered me a straight razor off of the classifieds on this website this past Friday. I know that it will not be shave ready as the classified for it said so.

What is the best way for me to go about getting it shave ready?

Thanks so much.

Glad you're pumped and excited...the typical questions will follow from other members, so might as well list the other equipment you have in stock. Strop, brush, soap, etc.

If it's your first, don't expect much...the first time is a bit anticlimactic. heck, after my first time I looked like someone with the shakes had done the job!

Send it out to a hone meister in the classified for 15-20 dollars. They will sharpen it for you. I recommend buying a strop too, to maintain your edge

Step 1: Get it honed. Since you're a starter, take the very cheapest option. Your stropping will likely not enhance the edge and if you can save a few bucks, why not? Get one of the guys in the forum to do it, and ask around to see what people think.


So, you've got a shave-ready razor! Next:

Step 2: Get the bare minimum in stuff:
- Brush
- Shaving cream or soap
- Alum block
- Strop

Don't go overboard on the strop, you'll damage it anyway. Get something like a Tweezerman for a brush and a puck of soap you'd like, or a cream. No canned goo, that'll ruin it for you. The alum block is great, as it takes care of the skin afterwards, stops bleeding and for most starters: burns like a mutha. In other words, it's a great technique indicator. The more you improve, the more you'll not notice the alum block treatment in the sense of burn.

Step 3: Do you first shave, prepare well and curse yourself afterwards for thinking it'd be easy, fast or pleasant. But hang in there!

Step 4: Learn from the experienced guys. Read about shaving techniques, stropping, taking care of the razor, all the good stuff.


Good luck!

check with lynn abrams here about getting it honed. you will not be disappointed...good luck

and how would I go about contacting Mr. Lynn Abrams?

look under member services in the classified section and i think he is the first one on the page....