So Im only sort of a new guy to straight razor shaving. For the last few years I have been alternating between a Merkur safety razor and a disposable blade straight. Im looking at getting my first "real" straight but not entirely sure I want to shell out $300 for the one I want right away. I see straight razors as the "gentlemans" way to shave and a bit of an antiquated lost art. I almost romanticize it with the ideas of men long ago using them and so I do love the old used straights.

I've actually been looking at an old Shumate Barbers straight that I adore. Its a full hollow-ground 5/8 blade that is in surprisingly good condition. Now obviously I dont think its too old of a razor, but it does have some age to it. The blade is good with only minor discoloration or "patina" from age. There are no nicks in the blade and the spine doesnt appear to be too worn from honing, so I do believe that it still has some life left in it. Im considering buying it and getting it back into shave ready condition.

So being that this will be my first "real" straight, I figured I would sign up on here and see what kind of information I could learn. Maybe pick up some tips and tricks along the way.

My name is Michael by the way.