Thread: Questions: Spike Point/Rounded + Soaps

Hi,

I am researching and trying to find the best razor, for a reasonable price, for my boyfriend this Christmas.

I really like:

Dovo Ebony Spike Point Straight Razor Set from Vintage Blades

Is there any reason that a beginner can't start with a spike point? I know it's easier to cut yourself with one, but couldn't he just learn from the start? Or do most people really prefer the rounded?

The Dovo "Black Best Quality" Straight Razor Set would be more affordable though, and does have the rounded point. It just isn't as cool looking... Opinions on this blade?

I also really like the Dovo White Bone Spike Point Straight Razor Setbut again, it's a bit pricier, and has a spike point.

Do you all think the Rooney small brush is good too?

Also, I have always heard bay rum as the traditional scent for soap. Is this preferable do you think, or should I go with something more neutral like almond or amber? What does amber smell like, by the way?

Has anyone used the Vintage Blades Brand Triple-Milled Shaving Soap? Opinions? Someone told me a cream would be a better bet, but I like the idea of a shave soap. Do they lather enough?

Please let me know what you think would be the best buy, or if you think anyone else gives a better deal. Equally so, if any members have a good blade/strop etc that they are selling, let me know.

Thanks!

~M

PS. He has said he would like to do this, I am just getting it before he would himself, eventually. I thought it would be a really special gift. What are the chances of him absolutely hating shaving with a straight razor?

No, no reason he can't learn with a spike from the outset. many have. It kind of like saying would you want to initally learn to drive a car with an auto tranny or a manual? The spike just adds one more thing to watch out for as you begin.

Ok, first off i want to let you know that I myself am a beginner, so my advice should be taken as such. I got into straight razor shaving because I thought it was just a cool classic "manly art"... and it turns out it really is. There are only a few things that could make your boyfriend not like it and I think it would be one of these:

1. Impatient
2. Unwillingness to maintain the razor
3. Cutting himself

Obviously if he has been looking into it he knows the pros and cons. It is not difficult at all so the skill is something that must be aquired but it doesn't take a ton of work. He also must know that this will save money in the long run, so if you get him his first razor then you will help the money savings right off the bat. I started with a Dovo best quality so i can say for sure that Dovo makes excellent razors. Your selections look great (i prefer the bone handle) and the only thing that i can say about a spike point is to be extra careful. The knicks to his face wont be terrible, unless he is sawing away at his face, but i can see how a spike point could dig in a bit more if too much pressure is applied.

There is my opinion on the razors. As for soap, I LOVE almond. I have tried both the Col. Conk almond and bay rum. The only common thing I can equate bay rum is the spicy scent of Old Spice cologne. Amber smells like insense/wood/earthy so i stayed away from that. Cream vs. Soap? That is all your preference, but i will tell you that soap lathers great and gives you more of that old time barber feel as long as your get your lathering technique down.

Those sets that you selected come with all of the necessities so that is great, but the main thing is the professionally honed razor. All razors are sharp but they need to be professional, I learned that one from experience. Straight razor shaving is very enjoyable and I think your boyfriend will really like it. Eigther of those sets will start him out on the right foot. I think it is awesome that you want to get that for him for christmas. I try to drop hints of my own but i dont think anyone is getting them LOL. Oh well...

P.S. I forgot about the brush. I have a bore bristle brush and it works fine. A badger brush is stiffer and therefore would lather quicker. So there's that.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

No, no reason he can't learn with a spike from the outset. many have. It kind of like saying would you want to initally learn to drive a car with an auto tranny or a manual? The spike just adds one more thing to watch out for as you begin.

Well he loves his stick shift, so maybe I should go dangerous and get the spike

GreatBazunka: Thanks for the thoughtful reply! The maintaining of the blade will actually be his favorite part lol. He loves knives and already has a ceramic (I think) hone. He even regularly sharpens his kitchen knives hehe. So as long as I can keep him from cutting himself, I think he'll be fine. As for patience, he has it One of the many reasons why he deserves a manly beard weapon.

I'll give you a newbie's perspective FWIW...I would have loved to have started out with a new Dovo, from what I've read, good razors for a reasonable price, and you can purchase these "shave ready" from several sites pre-honed/stropped so take advantage of that perk. Classifieds on this site is always an option also.
Spike or Round? Well I am currently using both types (favoring the spike myself) either type demands respect, both will be very sharp and I've had minor mishaps with both types so here I feel it's a matter what you (or what you think he) would prefer.
Rooney brushes, I don't have one so can't comment.
Shave soap scent...maybe something in a similar vein as cologne's he wears ie. woodsey, muskey, light floral, pretty much anything can be had. Soaps lather just fine if you get a quality soap. I've been using an inexpensive soap and am doing fine with it so far, with a good quality soap, all the better.
Chances of quiting, well, I've been at it for only 3 weeks , a rough start, a few nicks but excellent shaves already and it actually becomes a bit of an enjoyable hobby if you will. Would I quit at this point...no way, it too darn much fun!
Sounds like you've done a bit of homework...good start, and there's a tremendous amount of good advice and help right here.
I know it's not much help but as I said, I'm new at it.
Willie

Originally Posted by Maedchen

As for patience, he has it One of the many reasons why he deserves a manly beard weapon.

Excellent...... mwaha ha ha

Anyone of those sets would be a fantastic starter. Spike points are just fine for learning on. I survived.

After stickin himself a couple times he'll learn. It's not as bad as it sounds.

Originally Posted by Willie

... a rough start, a few nicks but excellent shaves already and it actually becomes a bit of an enjoyable hobby if you will. ...

I second that. It has only been a few months since I have started but I do look forward to shaving instead of it being a chore anymore.

i started with this razor, no problem with the spike, however there are a lot better razors than this one out there.
You can find a nice vintage that will shave better.

So what would be a good vintage razor? And would it end up being more economical with having to buy the brush etc? Also if it came improperly honed, how would I know that? I fear I might just waste my money.