Thread: Starting Out

Hey guys.
So, I really want to get into straight razor shaving. Just as a preface, I am only 14 so I'm still just taking of peach fuzz 2x a week. I would love to get the full set up, but I don't have the resources at the moment. So, I am considering getting the Parker SR1. I has some pretty awesome reviews, and is in my price range. Should I go for it? Or is it not worth it at my age? Any comments or suggestions welcomed!
Thanks in advance,
Parker

Hi Parker,

First off I'm not that experienced myself either yet, but I'll give you my 2 cents I started off at the age of 21 and went for a set including a vintage blade which was fairly priced as well (like 25 euro). Now I think there are two thinks for you to really consider, first off there is the 'getting to know' your bearding and facial contours, which I suppose you haven't fully mastered since your face is still developing itself. So if you would choose to go straight, be very careful and slow and see how your face, skin and bearding responds to different approaches.

Second I have no experience what so ever with any comparable blade, so I cannot comment on that, I really recommend to wait for a reply from someone experienced who has. But what I can advice you is getting a cheap vintage from a proper source, it won't be the most stunning piece you have ever glanced upon but it will have a proven history of shaving (which is both beneficial and just plain cool ).

Good luck!

I'd love to get an actual straight. I just don't have the money right now.

Originally Posted by parkerskouson

Hey guys.
So, I really want to get into straight razor shaving. Just as a preface, I am only 14 so I'm still just taking of peach fuzz 2x a week. I would love to get the full set up, but I don't have the resources at the moment. So, I am considering getting the Parker SR1. I has some pretty awesome reviews, and is in my price range. Should I go for it? Or is it not worth it at my age? Any comments or suggestions welcomed!
Thanks in advance,
Parker

Hi Parker,
I've never used a Parker SR1, or any thing similar, only the normal string of plastic things until I saw the light and got my first straight. I also use a DE on Saturdays. However, here's what I'd do and why...

I know my five razors all feel different, some are smoother and some are sharper than others. Some of forgiving and some are less so. I wouldn't go the way of the Parker SR1, even though it might seem 'scarier', a straight, I feel, could be honed to be just what you need. I got my 21 year old son shaving with a straight maybe six months ago. I think he gets away with a less sharp razor than I, as he has quite a light beard. My 14 year old son mentioned the other day that maybe he should start shaving soon, and I really hope he does with a straight or maybe a DE. I'm sure I could hone one up for him to be just a little less than really sharp. I find my 5/8 wade and Butcher to be a really soft feeling steel.

I think it'd be very interesting if you looked for a nice old vintage razor, with a Spanish or French toe, and bought it off someone who could hone it for you with a smooth, forgiving edge, i.e. not super scary sharp. You'll need a strop, but, with very light beard growth, shaving once or twice a week, I think you could save up for it and just use folded newspaper for a few weeks without too much of a problem.

Next you'll need at least one more razor and a Norton 4/8 hone, and you'll be set for the rest of your life, really...

Originally Posted by parkerskouson

I'd love to get an actual straight. I just don't have the money right now.

Oh, sorry, just saw your last post. I also see the Parker is only 20 bucks! Get it! And then start saving for a real straight...

Welcome to the forum Parker!

One thing you will find is that we all have different opinions, but you will also find that we all have your best interest in mind. My recommendation to you is get yourself a good starter strop like a "filly" over at www.ruprazor.com or the likes of a Big Mama or Big Daddy from the bay as I have heard good about them, a shave brush like a Vanderhagen or tweezerman, quality shave soap (Proraso would be a great foundation soap for you).

I have given specific recommendations because of all of the junk out there. Feel free to contact me in about anything straight razor related & I'll do what I can to keep you out of the ditch. .

You noticed I didn't mention a razor.

You get these three underlined things & show me you have them, (I will request a pic with a particular background of my choice like a newspaper) I will provide you with your first properly honed vintage razor.

Disregard that post. Changed mind.

*runs off to take pictures of gear on newspapers*

Another fine example of the fine people here on SRP. Thanks Shooter! And Parker...I wouldn't pass this offer up

Originally Posted by shooter74743

Welcome to the forum Parker!

One thing you will find is that we all have different opinions, but you will also find that we all have your best interest in mind. My recommendation to you is get yourself a good starter strop like a "filly" over at www.ruprazor.com or the likes of a Big Mama or Big Daddy from the bay as I have heard good about them, a shave brush like a Vanderhagen or tweezerman, quality shave soap (Proraso would be a great foundation soap for you).

I have given specific recommendations because of all of the junk out there. Feel free to contact me in about anything straight razor related & I'll do what I can to keep you out of the ditch. .

You noticed I didn't mention a razor.

You get these three underlined things & show me you have them, (I will request a pic with a particular background of my choice like a newspaper) I will provide you with your first properly honed vintage razor.

I just send a pm! I'm in. Will be ordering a strop today! And thanks so much shooter for he help and the offer!