Hey guys,

Me, being a cheap guy myself, have figured out how you can build you own shaving kit without spending the boo-koo bucks that most of the others do.

STEP1: The Razor
Try getting yourself a razor that is not entirely cheap, because that is what you will get, and try to buy a medium priced razor. I bought a DOVO SOLINGEN 5/8 Carbon Steel(same steel that you get in the more expensive razor) off Amazon for only $94.00. This is a fairly good price for a razor of that condition.
STEP2: The Strop
The strop that I use is a FROMM strop (23 x 2.5 in) that I got from a flea market, Leather side and canvas side. Try shopping around, internet and local flea markets are perfect for finding lost treasures. I spent only $8.00 for this strop and it works great. I am not saying that you will find the same deal, but you may find one for $20-$30. A lot better than spending $90-$150 for a same quality strop that does the same thing.
STEP3: The Cup/Brush/Cream
This is where the cheapness actually shows. I use a Gillette brush that I got at Wal-Mart for only $5.00. Not as soft as the fur brushes that you get, but it's a lot cheaper and it works the same. The "cup" that I use is actually the cap off the shaving cream. Which brings me to the next point. Shaving soap is what most of the top guns use. For new guns like us using cream is cheaper ($5.00 for cream v. soap for $24.00). This combo works great for the cup, brush, and cream/soap.
STEP4: Maintenance
By maintenance I mean the face and the razor. There is one thing you guys will need and that is some essential oil for your blade. Carbon steel is optimal for shaving, but it also carbonizes. Keep your razor oiled with essential oils between shaves to prevent carbonizing. The oil I use is from Wal-Mart called "Shave Secret" face oil. Don't use it on your face, but the blade, 3 drops should do. Facial maintenance is the next issue. After shaving, especially for new guys, it can get irritating because the blade is directly touching the face. Any brand face balm or aftershave (without alcohol) will suffice. You don't have to buy a $30.00 face oil/cream to authenticate the feel when a $6.00 bottle of balm works the same.

I hope that these tips help out the local or international shaver trying to get into the world of straight razors. I could have used these when I started but I couldn't find any, but I put these out for any new guys.

Have fun shaving!!

DrRazorKC