Bug-bitten already.

Hello Everyone,
I’m Thomas, 54 years old, and live in Huntsville, AL, USA.
I just became interested in straight razors about a week ago. My wife forced (I mean asked) me to go on part of the “world’s longest yard sale” www.127sale.com and for some unknown reason, I started looking for and asking about straight razors. Before then, I hadn’t really even thought of a straight razor since the 1970’s when I would watch my Grandfather shaving with one that had a yellow handle. Anyway, I didn’t find any that day, but came back and started looking for them on eBay, Craigslist, etc. I’ve bought five already (I can see where this might be addicting). Luckily, I’ve met a couple of stand-up guys through eBay that are helping me build a small collection of razors for my boys to have when I’m gone. (They’re 22 and 15). The guy that sold me my first razor is the one who recommended SRP. Right now I just need to know how to preserve them until I know a little about what to do or not to do with them ... like can I try Flitz polish on the dark spots or just leave them alone?, Do I oil them before I put them away like I would a freshly cleaned gun?, Basic things.
Eventually I’d like me and the boys to all learn how to shave with one.
I’m glad that I’ve found you and look forward to learning.
--Thomas

Welcome to the most friendly, helpful and informative site on the web!!

You will find members here of all different backgrounds, ages and occupations from all corners of the world and all with a quest for more knowledge about using and maintaining a straight razor!

If you take the time to search, 99.9% of your questions can be found in the Library (WIKI) however feel free to ask us about whatever it is that you are wondering about or having a problem with. It does help if you’ve done some research before hand so it narrows the problem down a bit.

Give me a PM and I'll try to answer your questions in detail.

It's a whole new/older and better way of shaving!!

Pictures are always nice!! Post them if you can, if not, try giving us a link to see what you have!!

Welcome to the 'Place'

A little metal polish is a good thing but not for the edge & not for any gold wash.
Oiling or not oiling is a debated topic here but steel can begin to rust at 40% RH, so for me, oiling & dry storage is not a question.

Welcome to SRP :)

Onimaru has it right. Myself, I use Rigg Gun Grease on a silicone cloth for my razors long term storage.

Here are a few SRP members in Alabama.....

http://straightrazorpalace.com/membe...sername&order=

You are in for an experience! If you like the blades... wait till you get to the strops! Moreover, you'll love the soaps and creams too! Heck, you might even learn to love honing!! Rather peaceful really. But note: you can't rush any aspect of this hobby be it actual shaving, honing or even lather making... its all an art! But I know you are going to love it!

Welcome! I hope your sons love it as much as we around here do - sounds like you are already hooked lol.