Thread: Recommendation for Razor #2?

Hey all. Again, many thanks for the wealth of info here. I'm only a week into SR shaving and I'm hooked. I ditched my cartridge and not looking back.
I have a Ralf Aust 5/8 full hollow, which seems to be performing perfectly. Now that I'm set, I have time to look around and feed a growing addiction.
Anyone have any recommendations on a second razor? Maybe something that performs differently that people seem to like? Diff size or maybe square point? Diff grind?
Ideally I'd like to find an older one, but not required. Love the tools of yore...

I found going from a 5/8 to a 6/8 was a huge difference for me. I like both sizes and each are better at certain things; however, I like the 6/8 better I think. Round vs. square to me is a matter of aesthetics and a small bit of functionality. I prefer a point on the blade I believe (although I dull the very tip slightly). I have a 5/8 full hollow, 6/8 1/4 hollow/wedge square point, 6/8 full hollow round point and another 5/8 full hollow. I would like to own a 1/2 hollow next and think that'll be the preferred grind for me. To answer your question...if it were me again in your shoes, I'd get a 6/8 full hollow or half hollow next. You'll never know until you get something different.

Jump on ebay and search for vintage straight razors. You will find all kinds of different styles and makers. When you find something you like search for it again here to find out information about the razor and most importantly how it shaves. If your search on SRP does not turn anything up start a thread inquiring about that particular razor or manufacturer.

If you want a new razor there are only a few options to sort through. If you want unique check out the custom razor makers here on SRP, they build dreams, seriously!

As for a recommendation, I would suggest something close to the razor you already own. I made the mistake when I first started using a straight of trying to shave with three very different razors, a 4/8+ wedge, a full hollow 6/8 and a half hollow 5/8. The results were undesirable. I had to find a razor close to the 6/8 and focus on my technique. The only razor that I still have difficulty with is the wedge but I am learning.

Hope that helps!

Thanks for the tips! I've got plenty of time to search around - maybe a different size to see how the heft feels.
FYI I couldn't figure out why today's shave was a bit rougher, until after I rinsed my face and saw my pre shave cream in the cabinet. Looks like that really makes a difference for me.

RoyalCake,

Search around various vendors for your razors. There is variety out there. Of the new razors, look for Thiers-Issard, Boker, Dovo, Revisor, Wacker. The vendors who carry these razors have other brands in their stock. Some new old stock (NOS), in carbon or stainless steel. Whether a 5/8 or a 6/8, the final choice is yours. Since you already have a 5/8, let's try a 6/8.

I am quite fond of hollow blades — love the sound — although in my collection I have half hollows, 3/4 hollows, wedges and so on, the whole gamut. Wait on a wedge for a while until you hone your skill. That's a different shave that might need getting used to for you. Either 3/4 or full hollow would be fine. Each will shave you differently, but one grind is no better than the other for you. It all depends on what you like. In other words, to get a good shave as you learn, you are not required to have a full hollow, or a 3/4 hollow. Whatever feels comfortable for you is the razor for you.

Yes, take your time. Also, don't ignore the razors in the Classified section. You can find some good stuff there. I recommend you stay away from eBay right now, or at least until you get to know the straight razor world well. Until you know your way around, there is a good chance you'll end up with junk on eBay, or razors that will need a lot of work, which will cost you. There is plenty of time for eBay. For now, go with the reliable vendors or our own members in the Classified.