Thread: Newb looking for a razor

hi there everyone...I'm currently using DE's but looking to make the might leap to straights. Frankenstein is selling a pair of 4/8 razors that I like. Everything, I've read says newbies should probably start with 5/8 or 6/8 and just was hoping someone could chime in their thoughts around the 4/8's. I like that they are old and that there is two of them. That way I can keep one as my benchmark and the other to practice my honing skills.

Thoughts?

I don't know anything about Frankenstein's razors. I highly recommend getting something from one of the known quantities on the Classifieds or one of the reputable vendors advertising here so that you know you are getting a shave ready razor.

While I would not discourage you from having multiple razors, I caution you not to start trying to hone them yet. Take some time to figure out what you're doing with the razor first. There's always time down the road to get started honing...

i think he means this razors
Pair of 4/8s with vintage leather case - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

I'm with LegalBeagle 100% on this one. Learning to shave with a straight will take a couple months. Learning to hone will take much, much longer. WHy might you ask? Practice. A good razor doesn't need even touched up but a few times a YEAR...depending on the razor and user. That even lessens if you have more than one in your rotation and/or are adding a pasted strop to the mix.

Yep, recommend a good 5/8 or 6/8 razor to start with...then whatever your pocketbook can afford ;-)

Edit: Those are some good looking razors...still recommend starting with the above...

Yea those are the razors....my thoughts were that if I had two already to go then I could practice for a year with the razors and once they needed honing I could send one off for the honemiesters and practice mine with the other. But it sounds like the 4/8 may not be good to start with? I don't have a particulary tough beard so would there be any other reason why I should stay with 5/8?

I'm new here so take my advice for what it's worth (squat). I believe I know the razors you are talking about and think that they are a smart buy. I'd agree it's not time to start trying to hone yet but to have two razors in your rotation to start off is a plus and if you do roll the edge on one or chip it you will have a backup till you can get it repaired. As far as size, to me it's not a big deal I have razors varied between 4/8-7/8 and although each is different I don't see any as better or worse, easier or harder I do find that grind matters alot more. A heavier grind is easier for me at least in this point of my journey. Hope this helps, good luck!