Thread: Starting razor?

So.. I really want to try using a straight razor, and I have done a bit or research. Is it really the best to have a 5/8 round tip? I found a what seems to be decent starter kit but it has a 3/4 round tip and is half hollowed. Would this be decent for a beginner? If not does anyone have any ideas for starter razors?

You'll do fine with a 6/8 (we don't call them "3/4") round tip.

Don't get hung up on details.

A round tip is recommended by most people (and me) -- there's less chance of digging into your face, than with a square tip. You can learn to shave (and strop) with any weight from "singing" to 1/4-hollow grind. 5/8 vs 6/8 is just a matter of personal preference.

What's important is that the edge be hand-honed (several vendors will do that for you), and that the razor is properly hardened.

. . . What "starter kit", in particular, are you looking at?

Charles

+1 to cpcohen1945. My first razor has been a boker king cutter from SRD. It's been awesome. Welcome to the brotherhood ;-)

The question is 'is it worth the money to YOU?'
I haven't dealt with SRD, however, I believe that they are very good value.

5/8 or 6/8 round points are good starting razors. As far as whether those starter kits are a good deal it all boils down to your personal preference. Do you want new or do you want second hand. Whats more important is that you buy a razor that comes prehoned and ready to shave.

I like 5/8 razors. I started with that width. My favorites are still 5/8. They just seem more nimble to me.

When I shave with a wider heavier razor it's a bit of a challenge. That said, I think one can start with either. Your next blade can be 5/8!

Srd is a great, full service shop. I wouldn't hesitate to buy from them.

Go for it. SRP is very reputable and backs everything they provide.

Looks good to me! That is if you want to go new instead of vintage. Just a matter of preference.

Which ever size you decide on make sure it has a rounded toe and Jimps. You don't want the razor slipping around in your hand while you are learning.

Hi Fieldmouse, and welcome!

I started with 5/8 blades, and have found that 6/8 suits me better... but that of course is personal preference. The Dovo Best is the least expensive new-stock razor I would trust; anything below that price point seems dicey. Like Nun2sharp says, SRD has great customer service. One of the owners is also this site's founder, so he's had a zillion chances to develop his reputation, which is impeccable. You might find the occasional item at a lower price, but the packages are fairly priced and the honing is top-notch.

Start with the blade you want to start with, as long as it's professionally honed. For your first shave, do not strop it first, so you'll be sure to experience the edge as it should be. Your first shave will not be the glorious thing so many of us rhapsodize about; it'll feel a little rough and tuggy. As your technique improves, so will your shave. We advise to not-strop for your first shave because a lot of guys are a little rough on their first stropping and actually damage the edge. This just removes a variable, if you should post later that "My first shave didn't feel very good. Is my razor sharp enough?" If you got it from a good honer and didn't damage it stropping, then yes, it's sharp enough.

There are two beginning questions that you can answer with the same action: Is my razor sharp enough, and How hard should I press? Start on the easy spots, sideburns and cheeks, and press only hard enough to scrape away the lather. If your beard prep was good and your razor is properly sharp, the whiskers come away in the lather as if by magic.

Best wishes and happy shopping.