Thread: Lack of Shaving Supplies in my area. What ya got?

Hey, FrogHair (great handle).
You're right about local brick & mortar store being few & far between. That's true even in many large cities.
You'll find that satisfaction from getting a quality/pleasing product lasts alot longer than the annoyance & hassle of obtaining it. Mail Order/Online purchases are your friend. You mention heavy beard. This means beard prep is big medicine or you'll be sending out you blades for fresh edges alot. (if this actually becomes an issue, PM me - there's low cost solutions you can do).

Depending on budget, you can have a *high* quality soap for $10. $17 for a cream. Many Many decent soaps can be had for $4/puck. The big deal is to get your beard of steel 'shaveable'. Since this is new for ya, you might want to consider a heavier grind razor - 1/2 hollow to near wedge. They're harder to find, and usually more costly, but very friendly to learn with. Some can grab an extra hollow squarepoint and just take right to it w/ no carnage. Then there's the rest of us. When I looked at the various classifieds a day or so back, I didn't see any. You can always go w/ the Dovo Best from SRD and know it absolutely came shave ready. If you take a glove size of XL or larger - opt for the 6/8 instead of the 5/8. 'Just easier for a big hand to articulate something w/ an adquate shank size.

Your tastes are gonna change, so maybe keep the blade spending low until you've settled into some longer term preferences. 'Classifieds are an excellent way to go. If you get one and the edge isn't up to snuff - hollar.

Side note: Texas has an unnaturally high concentration of VERY high skilled craftsmen. Its true in many areas, and very true w/ razors. You prob have experienced guys w/in an hour's drive. Getting some face-time w/ them would be tremendously helpful. Should your travels bring you near the Portland, OR area - pm me & we'll swap stories, try gear, sharpen blades.