Thread: Newby's story; classic question.

Originally Posted by raneyday

Hi all,


they promise a razor honed by some guy named "Lynn".
--David

thats to funny..... welcome abaord, i like the spike points better because when the edge ends the blade ends and there is not a 1/4 inch of metal that does nothing having to get turned just right to get the cutting edge where i need it...that sounds pretty good a beer while you wait for the haircut....you dont have to buy new if you feel like saving a few $ you can get one you like off the classifieds the wider blades are def easier to strop but the 5/8 is easier to navigate around my face than a big 7/8 but thats just my .02 good luck with whatever you pick and just have fun

I think this is one of those YMMV issues. I've got 4/8 through 6/8 in round and spike point. The smaller razors can be more maneuverable but the slight extra weight of the 6/8 can aid in the razor not jumping. The round versus spike is also personal preference. As others have pointed out they're great for trimming. However in my case they always scratch me when I'm shaving a certain part of my neck, just can't seem to get around it except for muting the point. My personal favorite is my 6/8 red Bismarck round point (I think I got from that guy Lynn whats-his-name)

Welcome aboard and here's wishing you many great shaves.

Pelkey

David,

Welcome to SRP...

Yes, it does certainly appear that you have done your homework. As for your razor dilemma...Blade size is a personal choice, although for a newbie I would recommend starting with the smaller width.

I would tend to agree with BEBerlin. Although the width of the blade is a personal preference, the 5/8" width of the Dovo "Black Star" makes it a bit more manueverable on your face. In fact, a Black Star from SRD with Red Pakkawood scales was my very first str8 razor and I love it, although I must confess that if I could do it again I'd purchase the Dovo "Special" with imitation Tortoise shell scales or handles. The difference in cost is not the quality of the blade steel, its the etching on the blade, etc. and/or the different scales or handles that account for the difference in cost. If your heart is really set on the Black Star, however, get it. You won't be disappointed.

One small suggestion with respect to your strop...Consider investing a little more and get the longer bridle strop. The greater length makes stropping your razor a lot easier.

BTW...As BeBerlin points out, the Dovo 5/8" "Ebony" does come with a round point.

Take care--and smooth shaving.

Thanks, jhenry. I'll look into it. I think anything that makes stroping easier is worth the investment.

--David