Thread: My First Razor Help

Hello everyone. I've been researching everything for a while now, and I want to go ahead and purchase all of my items tomorrow. I've been looking at this website alot
Straight Razors
Here's the deal. I'm really not sure what to look for, or what's good/bad. I would like to get some advice/recomendations from experienced straight shavers, that know what makes a good one. I want a really good razor, that i'll use for a very long time. I'm willing to spend $300-$500 for a razor, up to $100 for a strop, and I want a silver tipped badger brush/bowl. Can anyone please help me with links or recommendations to specific razors I should get and why? I'm not sure what to choose.

Thanks

I like the site you mentioned buying from (I have a Hart Steel 6/8th from them). However my first razor advice would be from straightrazordesigns. I would look at a 5/8-6/8ths with one of their strops in the package deal. They are a great vendor and I have much from them. I would get the upgraded 3in strop if you have the means to get it. That's my opinion on the matter.

Nic

Well, my fascination with straight razor shaving is as much mental as it is for a physical shave. I do want something classy, and something that will make me feel good to look at. To tell the truth, I want to spend between $300-$500, definitely want something non-beginner; but I understand the issues with that. What should I base the 5/8 or 6/8 on? I also heard the contour matters to? The hart steel looks pretty cool, because I get to pick the handle to go with the blade. Handle part is easy, blade is where it gets complicated. I'd opt for the shiny one with a square edge, just for looks. Any suggestions from here?

http://www.classicshaving.com/Hart_Steel.html

I base the size suggestion on maneuverability. Also, I didn't mention the grind. This is where I might differ from some. I enjoy a nice quarter to wedge grind as I have a very coarse beard. I also enjoy, and here is the key, a very sharp full hollow. But I started with a wedge and would recommend it to anyone with coarse hair. That's why I love the Hart's so much. Try a Wade and Butcher or Frederick Reynolds wedge at some point. Nice.

Good luck
Nic

Ok guys, I think i've found it

DOVO Straight Razors

thoughts?

That's a sweet razor. Stainless steel has pros and cons. The good is the fact that it is less prone to rust. Also I feel they hold their edge longer, however they never get quite as sharp as carbon steel. The stainless is also a tad harder to hone when you get to that point.

Nic

+1 Pm to Lynn

There are too many choices when spending that kind of money for someone else to make up your mind. Anything Lynn suggests will be more than adequate but you could spend half that much and have very nice equipment. The higher prices will get you style and pannache to satisfy your personal tastes as it would be difficult to find a poorly performing razor or strop on your budget.