Thread: How did you begin - first razor, shave, etc

I'm curious how yall's start went. The more I look at new razors edges being not shave ready or frowning or whatever, the more I just feel lucky. Whether that was lucky to be ignorant or luck to have gotten a good starter razor I am not sure.

About 20 years ago, on a lark I decided to get a straight razor just for another cool knife. I'd never even seen one up close. I walked out of the store with a Col Conk kit that included the razor, strop, brush, honing stone, and some basic advice on stropping for about $70. I got home and obviously had to try it once. I didn't know anyone with any experience, so did some research on the internet and had at it. I loved it and used it for a few years until I ended up growing a full beard. And, it still gives me close comfortable shaves.

I have never used this paddle hone thing because I have no idea what it is. Feels kinda like pomace. But, I have extra razors now, so who knows, maybe I'll try it out. Paul just hones off any old rock he finds, so what harm can it do?

Yall'd yell at me if I didn't put a picture...so....



Oh, I didn't include the brush because I am not sure if it is the one I still use or if I replaced it at some point.