Thread: Any suggestions?

Hello All,

I just completed the process of ordering my first straight razor set. I'm unsure if I'm allowed to mention vendors or not but it seems to be a respectable online source, VBLLC.

I ordered a package including a Dovo Ebony "Silver Steel" 5/8, a strop, a styptic pencil, and I went with a small upgrade to include the world of straight razor shaving DVD. I already have the brush, soap, and stand from use with my safety razor.

I'm wondering what feedback anyone may have for me as to what I've purchased. It was suggested that I start with a half-hollow but I liked the design of the Silver Steel so much I couldn't resist. I seem to be a very coordinated person so I might catch on quickly regardless.

Should I consider purchasing anything else at this point or in the near future?


Best,

Ats200

Welcome to SRP. Sounds like you have what you'll need to get going and it came from a respected source. Check out the beginner's guide here in the SRP Wiki and especially Lynn's recommendations for the first straight razor shaves. The prior DE experience will help since you'll already have experience with lathering and preparation. Just take it slow and once you get past the learning curve you'll be getting shaves equal to and eventually surpassing any method you've used in the past.

It looks like you have everything you will need to start with.
I do not see a bowl for lathering mentioned, but you can face lather so this is no big deal.
One thing I would suggest to also get is paddle strop and apply CrO for touch up, and/or a good barber's hone.
When the razor starts to pull a bit just run it 5-10 times on the CrO strop, or 3-5 times on the barber's hone to bring it back to good shaving condition.

One other thing to consider is blade care. To prevent corrosion make sure to dry the blade very well after use, then you can oil with baby oil, or mineral oil until next time you use it.

I like your choice for your first razor, It was one of my first ones too!! Nice easy razor to shave with and looks fantastic. Good luck.

Welcome to SRP

See, it's a bit late for feedback since you already made your purchase.
I used to have this razor, but eventually I decided it's a bit too flashy for my taste (it's borderline passable though), plus round point is not my cup of tea.

You don't need to buy anything else. Concentrate on learning to shave with the razor and meanwhile read on the long-term maintenance, i.e. keeping the razor sharp. You should be good for about couple of months and that will give you time to familiarize yourself with the various options and make a pick you're comfortable with.

Welcome to shaving. I started a few years back with a shaving kit which included the Fromm Red Head 5/8. Great blade and miss it dearly. Any how, just concentrate on shaving with confidence. Look over the DVD, evaluate, take the shave sloooooow and gentle. I went slow and very easy my first time and didn't get a nick. Wasn't the greates shave but I improved quickly within days. After a few tries you'll adjust to your comfort zone. Be patient, you'll love it in no time. As before, welcome to shaving.

Thank you all for the advice and input! I'm sure I'll be back with more questions once I actually begin use.

Mainaman, I do happen to have a bowl and soap it must have just slipped my mind when I was writing. I actually have a pretty nice antique old-spice "mug" given to me by my great grandfather.