Quote Originally Posted by TRC View Post
Hi All,

I am thinking of buying a straight razor and have done a bit of research and found this forum. It is great! I have read all the beginners sticky's and got lots of good information. What I am still wondering is what price range I should be looking in for a beginners straight razor? I am a Timber Framer and Carver and understand that a good blade and good steel is of utmost importance for good results. I don't want spend too much to find out that this style of shaving is not for me, but at the same time I don't want to end up with a crap razor. I am willing to spend the money to get a good quality razor. Also, what do the number 6/8, 7/8 etc. mean? Is it better to go with a Vintage razor or new?

Thanks in advance to everyone's opinions

Tim
The numbers refer to the width of the blade. I.E. 7/8 is a wider blade than a 5/8. It's said that a wide blade is harder to work into the tight spaces on your face, but a small blade like a 4/8 wont hold a lot of shaving lather so it needs to be rinsed frequently. 5/8 seems to be a pretty standard starting size blade.

Vintage v. new is a matter of preference. I have one of each, and I have to say, there's something about the vintage I like better. Although the quality of a new razor can be very good, when a company is manufacturing thousands of blades, you have to assume that some of the finer details are overlooked. Where as many of the vintage razors you will find, certainly the ones on this site, have been worked on by an individual who has taken the time to address those finer details.

The biggest benefit I found in buying new is that you can buy a full beginners set, which takes the guess work out of it. choosing which strop, brush, mug, soap, and razor out of the thousands of choice can be a bit overwhelming when you start out. With a complete set, it's pretty safe to say that you will get all that you need in that package to start shaving.