Thread: first straight razor recommendations

Mhum I can concur with the good advice, no place better for sure cause here I don't feel like I am annoying one person but a whole community! haha J/k

And yes SRD is where I am looking to purchase a SR all because they offer getting it shave ready, not to mention the second honing is free etc. So my first SR coming from them is a no brainer, plus they seem to know their stuff with SR's so it is natural.

Haha yeah I'll bet on the 5/8th's comment about not dainty, suppose it don't take much with a razor and I am sure they do a fine job...likely I'll get some thing bigger later on when I am more proficient and collect as I think I might.

Thanks for the advice, helps tremendously.

Just a follow up for those interested. My Hart Steel Straight arrived yesterday. Good quality construction - looks like it meant to be an everyday shaver. The quarter grind almost looks closer to a wedge style. I stropped it first on the fabric (15) passes, then 50 on leather and went to town. It tugged a little more than expected, but I attribute it more to my technique than sharpness. Overall, I feel it performed well - great balance, easy to control, no big cuts(couple small weepers). This razor is definitely a good buy for anyone interested in a stiffer 6/8 razor.

This isn't that complicated. Dovo razor is an excellent starting razor and then some. When you look at the prices keep in mind the blades are the same on most razors as you go up the ladder. You are paying for the scales -- more exotic = more money.

RupRazor make a very good but very inexpensive starter strop. Excellent strop but cheap enough so if you accidently cut it up as a novice you won't be kicking yourself.

There are a zillion cups, brushes, soaps and whatnot out there. While I recommend a badger brush to start, you can find a decent one for about $20.

When you get the hang of it you will probably want to upgrade the strop, "maybe" get a better brush, but the rest of the stuff is just experimenting and fun. You may want to get another razor, but the Dovo will be great and probably last you the rest of your life and then some.

The shave is a combination of prep and technique. Don't go chasing a better shave with money and more razors.