Thread: Thinking about getting a straight razor

If it weren't for that offer from Lynn, I might have suggested trying a DE razor first. I think SE can give you a better shave but the learning curve is much sharper and there is a lot of time you have to set aside to properly care for this hobby (as I'm discovering). It is well worth the effort if you want to set aside that time, it is actually a very enjoyable hobby. However, if you just want better shaves with as little hassle as possible and as fast as possible a DE razor can give you that.

Be warned that once you switch to a DE, some people say making the switch up to SE is hard. You'll be getting super close shaves after a month with the DE and you'll be starting nearly from scratch (except you'll probably have some aquisition disorders and own some really nice stuff!). As someone making the switch to SE from DE I've had to force myself not to touch my DE so I could learn to use both hands with my SE and to master the tough parts of my face. It is often very tempting to reach over to the DE and do a quick fix up pass after the SE is giving you a hell of a time during your first few shaves. This needs to be avoided in my opinion if you want to end up getting really good with the straight.

If you think you want to go to the DE route, I wrote a post somewhere else on what a new wetshaver needs to get started and I'd be happy to repost it here if you are interested in reading it.

You need to take Lynn up on that offer and look to www.thewellshavedgentleman.com for a strop. Although a Boar Hair Brush will do you, I suggest going for the Badger. I'd say that's it for now except to say go to the Help Files and read all the Permanent Archives ... yes ALL of them. Do it like that and your inches away from the best shaves of your life.

Incidentally, I have very sensitive skin too and just want to say on that note that with good beard prep, a very sharp razor and post shave pampering, I'm doing fine. I used to get the occassional ingrown hair or irritated whisker when I used a Track II. After a year of straight shaving I'm happy to announce there has been NONE of that anymore.

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