Thread: Newbie needs guidance purchasing first blade

Hello,

I used to love watching my grandpa shave with his straight razor when I was a kid because it always reminded me of old westerns...
I have been contemplating for some time and I decided it was time to give up disposable razors and start shaving with a straight razor for financial reasons and because I am tired of always having to throw out and replacing blades. I didn't know that there would be so many blades to choose from, until I started to search for one to purchase online. I was starting to feel overwhelmed then I found this site so I figured I better ask for some guidance. What are my best choices as a beginner? I honestly did not realize how expensive they would be either and didn't really plan on (and would like to avoid) paying 100+ bucks if possible... Also what is the difference when it comes to different sized blades? Thanks

Steve

As a newbie myself, I started with a blade from whipped dog.com. He gives you a blade and strop and some other small goodies for 65, I believe. The blade is shave ready though not the prettiest but that's ok to start. There's a wait right now on straights of about two weeks but I think it's the best way too start and economical as well.

stephen,
welcome. 'Glad to hear you're making the change to quality. In this, and other hobbies, I've spent gobs of money and time - mostly to learn that I didn't have to spend gobs of money and time. Some of my best razors cost $20 or less. Yes, that means I had work to do on them, But an excellent shaver can be had for $25-55. Total outlay can be in the $85 range. Now, to put that in perspective, if you bought a premium cartridge every week ($5x52), you'd be at $260 for the year - not counting canned slime, stypic, etc.

I'm on a laptop kybrd right now or I'd write more. You'll get lots of help here. Should you have trouble finding affordable gear, PM me & I'll help. You might want to let us know how often you currently have to shave, density/coarseness of your beard, sensitivity of your skin, and what size glove you use (ergonomics).

You'll be able to get wonderful shaves w/out spending 1/2 as much as outlined above. And you'll enjoy shaving again.

Welcome Stephen, I'm going to second the whippeddog.com as cited by mrdubs above. You'll be kicking off very affordably through that site. Also keep in mind that what seems expensive in the new razors that you see, even the cheapest Dovo might seem like an extravagant price to pay, you're getting something, that with a little care will last you into your sons shaving life. That has got to be a huge cost savings in disposable or cartridge razors. Of course, I have to assume that money is tight, and that you won't be able to afford the nasty disease we call RAD (Razor Acquisition Disorder). That will drain funds from your bank account very quickly if you're not careful .


Mick

In response to pinklather's questions. My facial hair is not extremely dense nor is it extremely coarse. I where a medium or large glove depending on the make. I'm 5'6"...

Originally Posted by StephenJ

Hello,

I used to love watching my grandpa shave with his straight razor when I was a kid because it always reminded me of old westerns...
I have been contemplating for some time and I decided it was time to give up disposable razors and start shaving with a straight razor for financial reasons and because I am tired of always having to throw out and replacing blades. I didn't know that there would be so many blades to choose from, until I started to search for one to purchase online. I was starting to feel overwhelmed then I found this site so I figured I better ask for some guidance. What are my best choices as a beginner? I honestly did not realize how expensive they would be either and didn't really plan on (and would like to avoid) paying 100+ bucks if possible... Also what is the difference when it comes to different sized blades? Thanks

Steve

First off to start all you need is a razor, strop, soap, and brush. I second whipped dog. I have bought from them several times and they have all been winners. People recommend a beginner start out with a 5/8 or 6/8 so that may be a place to start and as time goes on you can add different sizes and find out which one you prefer.

Good advice above. I'll suggest to get an inexpensive Tweezerman badger brush for about $15, a shaving soap stick Tabac, Palmolive or Arko and some Thayers witch hazel.

What about blade size. What can you guys tell me about that?

Originally Posted by StephenJ

What about blade size. What can you guys tell me about that?

I think you'll find that most people will tell you that the blade size is one of preference. But for the sake of getting started, I think you'll also find that most people will suggest either a 5/8 ro 6/8 initially. Its kind of a middle of the road size and common. I personally prefer 6/8 and 7/8 sizes. If you find a 6/8 that catches your eye, I suggest the 6/8. It gives you a little more blade to hang on to performing different grips.

Originally Posted by StephenJ

What about blade size. What can you guys tell me about that?

My personal choice is bigger is better. The biggest I own is just a little 8/8 custom, but I love it. The smallest I like to use is a 6/8. The smallest I own is a 3/8.


Mick