Thread: Spare Razor Question

Not sure if this is the correct forum, so let me know if I should repost somewhere else.

I'm a newb at straight razor shaving. I bought a dovo best quality 6/8 back in June, shaved with it for 2 weeks, dulled it with poor stropping technique, sent it back to SRD for a re-honing. I Got it back almost 4 weeks ago and still shaving, so I think my stropping or technique, hopefully both, has improved.

Anyway, I recently bought a finishing hone (I went with the Chinese 12k) for touching up the edge when the time comes.

The question: how important is it for me to have a spare razor (I don't) in case my honing takes awhile to get to a decent level?

Will one razor be a motivation to get proficient at honing or does everyone struggle with touch-up honing and would it be foolish not to have an extra?

I want another razor (or several) eventually, but I'd like to hold off a little while, maybe ask for one for Christmas from the wife or something.

Thanks for any imput; I hope my question wan't too long winded.

Ken

I think it depends whether you're ok with your razor being gone for a week or so

Personally I'd still want a spare in case of accidental damage

I have a DE at hand for these situations. They are cheaper than straights, easier to maintain, and better than cartridge razors. It's a great middle ground for when you can't use your straight, but don't want to buy a new one yet.

IMHO I think that two razors is the bare minimum, just in case something happens (heaven forbid!) to one.
I took me a while to learn to hone,(not like I'm not still learning) and if the only thing I had was the one I was practicing on, I would have been in trouble.
OTOH as others have said, a DE could work....

I've just started and I've got three straights. Mind you two were bought of Ebay for a total of less than $35 for both.

If you want a safety type razor as a backup I would recommend a Gem Junior. They use a single edged blade and do a really nice job. You can still find blades for them - use only Gem brand - at local pharmacies and places such as Bed Bath and Beyond.

Ed

I would personally have a second razor. You do not have to spend $100+, I have seen some decent vintage shave ready razors for $30-$50 here.


You got to know when to hone 'em, know when to fold 'em,
Know when to walk away and know when to run.
You never shave your face when you're honin' at the table.
There'll be time enough for shavin' when the honin's done.