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Just looking to get an opnion from all the experienced members. Should I try to restore a razor that I bought at an antique shop when I'm first beginning? Or should I wait until I'm a little more experienced to do that?
I realize it's my decision, but I was hoping you guys can point out some pros and cons for restoring when I'm just starting out.
Thanks,
Thomas
Doing the restoration by hand would be a learning experience and I would recommend it... BUT if you plug in something, and get near the blade the results could be less than fun...
Keep in mind we have a saying around the Workshop Forum here "Rush a Restore, Wreck a razor"
Here is the place to start, http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...wers-here.html looking for way more info than you will ever need :D
Oh !!! and welcome to SRP gosh darn glad to have you...
One of the most important things for a beginner is to start with a professionally sharpened razor.
The reason is that getting a good shave with a straight is very reliant on technique. A seasoned straight shaver can get a good shave with a less than perfectly sharp razor, and beginner won't be able to get a good shave even with a perfectly sharp razor. Even if you've memorized all there is to know about straight shaving before putting razor to face, your muscle memory/coordination with a straight will lag behind and you will get sub par shaves no matter what.
At this point, many beginners blame the razor for being dull, not understanding that it is the lack of proper technique that is at fault. So the last thing you want is to even have the possibility that the razor is dull. You need to be able to know that its your technique that needs improving, and you will be able to see the difference as you technique improves.
Here is the advice I get from the wise on this site, "Read the wiki. Read the wiki. Read the wiki." Then start over again.
The problem with jumping in to restoring is the money you will spend before you know what you are doing.
(ohm, read the wiki, read the wiki, read the wiki)
I'd start out learning how to lather. Master the uberlather. Mantic59 on youtube is a good source but remember:
(ohm, read the wiki, read the wiki, read the wiki)
I started the shaving process with a DE and then a shavette (gasp...read the wiki, read the wiki, read the wiki). The shavette is still in my rotation but it is an unforgiving beast and with my still-developing skills it still draws blood. At least I'm not loosing skin anymore!
And then I bought a shave ready razor from and SRP classified vendor. This was money well spent. I am certain this razor will remain in my rotation for a long time.
Read the wiki, read the wiki, read the wiki......
Was buying at a brick & mortar store for my first razor.
If I could do it again, I'd have bought from either the classifieds here (spend any time & your find which guys do quality) or from one of the vendors selling vintage. It's not marketing or self promotion, its just the cheapest way to get quality.
Thanks, for the input guys. And I'll be sure to read the wikis... ;)