Howdy, all. New here, finally deciding to de-lurk.

I'm a traveler, and I'm thinking of trying out a straight. Disposables just blow, and they cost me money that I just don't have. Disposable stuff just takes of space, and in my experience, typically doesn't work as well pretty much across the board.

I'm a chick, so I'm thinking I might be looking for a smaller straight, handy for curvy bits like underarms and *cough* below the belt. I'm pretty articulate, and pretty small girl, so I figure something small and light will suit me. And yes, I will practice extensively on the easier parts first.

But, as mentioned, I'm also broke despite working like a kid in a sweat shop. I have a xenophobic government to thank for that.

I'm so broke, in fact, that I can't even remember the last time I got a new blade for my piece of crap Venus razor. I get such a crappy shave out of it even brand new that I can just never justify spending precious food money on more crappy blades. I've been known to borrow men's blades when the circumstances arises. They work marginally better.

From reading around, I reckon I can fashion one of my leather belts into a strop for the time being. I have pretty good luck shaving using thick lubricant, and was wondering if this will work well with a straight as well? I don't see why it wouldn't, but I could be wrong.

And then, there's the razor itself. Like I said, small and light would suit, but what are some good brands for me to look at? Preferably on the cheap. I don't reckon I'll get the money together for a while - Christmas has hit me pretty hard and I'm scrambling. But I guess all good things take time.

Anyway, nice to be here, and thanks in advance.