Thread: Choices.....I'm new to all these beauties

Ok, now that I think I have narrowed my straight razor choices... Here we go again: Strops... So many choices. One comment was to buy the best strop you can afford... Come on, should a person new to straight razors buy a Mastro Livi strop or one of those fancy $$$ stops...?
Maybe a Tony Miller or an Illinois strop?
What about material.....?
I'm confused again...:-(

I just want something that is good in quality, that performs well and will last.
Any suggestions?
Thanks...

My first strop was a Tony miller and it is the one i have been using for about six years so they do last, the only reason i have another one is because i won it in a raffle but still wanted a new one anyway.

I'm in the same boat, just getting in to str8s. What I have read is to get an inexpensive strop to start as we will probably cut them up. Also seems that 3" is easier to learn on so we don't have to perfect the X stroke to start.

Originally Posted by luteplayers

I'm in the same boat, just getting in to str8s. What I have read is to get an inexpensive strop to start as we will probably cut them up. Also seems that 3" is easier to learn on so we don't have to perfect the X stroke to start.

Agree...
On another post they stated:
"I'll suggest RupRazor.com if this is going to be your first strop. They offer a $20 strop called The Filly which is perfect for learning on. You're bound to get a few nicks in a strop when starting, so you might as well get those done on a $20 strop rather than an $80."

Originally Posted by cfbmd

Agree...
On another post they stated:
"I'll suggest RupRazor.com if this is going to be your first strop. They offer a $20 strop called The Filly which is perfect for learning on. You're bound to get a few nicks in a strop when starting, so you might as well get those done on a $20 strop rather than an $80."

It's just not very attractive..:-(

You might want to consider Tony Miller's vegan strop. It will do the job as well as leather and is much more resistant to nicks and cuts. I think it is an idea first strop (or only strop for that matter). You can get canvas or linen with it, the hardware is top notch and they are not very expensive relative to first rate leather strops. Something to consider.

Thanks everyone for the input and comments

Ok... I'm getting there..

This is what I'm thinking so far:
Razor: Start off with a Boker King Cutter
Strop: Contemplating either a Straight Razor Designs Lynn Abrams Modular Paddle (that way when if I screw up the leather learning how to stop I can just order a replacement leather pad) or his 3" PREMIUM IV English Bridle strop (but maybe this should be the one I get when I learn to strop well).

Question: How many of you guys hone your own razors...?
Because if I'm going to do this... I was contemplating going all the way and also getting the NANIWA Value pack - 5000, 8000 & 12000 Grit stones.

What do you guys think...???

Oh... I almost forgot...since I love DE razors as well...I'm ordering the New Muhle R41 open comb.... anyone have/like that razor?

Wow! You're really going to jump into the deep end with all that awesome gear-find somebody to show you how to use those hones and you'll be set!

Originally Posted by ScoutHikerDad

Wow! You're really going to jump into the deep end with all that awesome gear-find somebody to show you how to use those hones and you'll be set!

Unfortunately, I don't have anyone local to show me.... However, Lynn has many instructional videos...
The only thing I'm a bit aprehensive about is learning each of these arts.. Shaving, stropping, honing..etc.... Each has it's own learning curve.

Doc,
Welcome to SRP. That Boker's a beaut, and I have a vintage NOS that's one of my favorite shavers.

The paddle strop is a good idea and several of the gentlemen here make use of them. The modular design is pretty innovative in an otherwise traditional hobby. A great starting point.

If tradition is part of your appeal, you might later consider a 2" horse hide strop from any of the various vendors. The 3" strop is in some ways more novice friendly, but I personally don't care for how wide and clunky they tend to look (personal preference), whereas the 2-2.5" strops are more traditional.

Honing is a worthwhile investment if you are in it for the long haul. However, that decision may be best saved until after you've experienced some successful and gratifying endeavors with the straight. Once you've caught the straight disease you'll have no problems justifying the purchase of hones, and no buyers remorse afterward.

I strongly suggest learning the straight techniques before jumping into honing. There are only so many variables that can be managed at one time, stropping chief among them, then shaving angles, pressure, strokes, etc. (not mentioning those you've already mastered via safety razor wet shaving). Not having the former well founded with experience will cast doubt on your honing outcomes and you will have a harder time finding success in both areas.

That said, already being a wet shaver, it may only take a matter of weeks to get consistently gratifying shaves; thereby paving the way to honing.

Best of luck!

Peace,
Jim