Thread: beginner blade

I saw a brand called Masters Collection. i was wondering if it's a good brand or a cheap brand. I was looking at the shavette with the extra blades, is that worth my money for should i start with a normal straight razor?

Welcome to SRP

Masters Collection Straight Razor with Marijuana Skull Graphic - Ugly paper weight

Master Barbers Straight Edge Razor Folder Knife Pearl - Ok looking letter opener

Master Straight Razor Pakkawood - Good looking letter opener or replacement scales

From a functional shaving stand point a Gold Dollar razor would at least have a good chance of being able to take a shaving edge. My three all shave just fine.

Better yet a shave ready Dovo Best Quality, or vintage razor from the classifieds currently there are a few under $50.

A shavette can do just fine but they do tend to be harsh compared to a straight.

Jonathan

Welcome to SRP.

Read through the wiki here and make an informed decision before you buy a razor that makes you regret being a man. We love to make converts to this lost art so feel free to ask questions.

Best Regards

Originally Posted by randolfthegreat

I saw a brand called Masters Collection. i was wondering if it's a good brand or a cheap brand. I was looking at the shavette with the extra blades, is that worth my money for should i start with a normal straight razor?

It does not look like a good razor to start out with. I would say the best razor to start out with is one in the $80-100 range from a reputable dealer that makes it shave ready. Of course, you will need a strop (get 3" so you won't have to learn the X pattern), and stones if you want to learn to maintain your blade.

If you are uncertain whether you really want to go to straight razor shaving, I would get a Parker shavette Parker SR1 Barber Straight Razor and 10 Red Pack Personna before getting Masters Collection and other junk brands.

As an experienced straight razor shaver, I have probably gotten more razors used from the classified section of this forum than from any other source.

If you're looking to just try it out on the cheap, I think Cajun's Parker recommendation, an Omega Pro 48 brush, and a tube of Proraso or CO Bigelow would be a good way to do it. You would be talking a $50 total investment.

One beginner to another. If you hope to have any success don't go the ebay cheapo new razor route. Spend a little more on a good quality used razor here in the classifieds. Don't get too hung up on the initial price (within reason) but make sure the seller will supply it "shave ready". I can't stress this enough. Here's why.

1.) You need it "save ready" or you'll be faced with trying to use a dull razor for your first shave (very bad idea).
2.) If you love it then you have a good quality razor that will last you a lifetime.
3.) If you hate it you can always put it back up for sale.
4.) If you bought it for $100 and sell it for $80 your only out $20.
5.) If you buy a new cheapo razor on eBay it does not come to you "shave ready".
6.) To hone it (assuming it'll hold a "shave ready" edge - some won't) you need about $200 worth of stones.

So unless you already have the stones and are experienced at honing a razor you're better off to follow steps #1 thru #4 above. It gives you the best possibility of success with the least amount of cash outlay even if you end up selling it. Just my 2 cents.

There's no such thing as a beginners straight razor. A straight razor is a straight razor, period. A 5/8 or 6/8 round point is recommended as it is more forgiving than others. However, we do have members who started with spike points and are doing just fine. I have no experience with a shavette so I can provide no guidance with them.

Just remember it doesn't have to be pretty to shave you well. Have a look in the classifieds, rembering new stuff is added regularly. Do not buy hones yet. :-)