Newb from Michigan, US.

Good day everyone. First time post. I am bound and determined to learn the art of shaving with a straight razor. I have read all of the introduction articles and appreciate the help of those that wrote them. I haven't purchased my first razor yet and will be looking for a great, entry level blade for teaching purposes.

From what I have read, I am looking for a 5/8's semi hollow to hollow for ease of getting into hard to reach places. I am also looking for something that has been professionally honed and shave ready. Let me know what you have, I will also be (and have been) spending time in the classified section. I will be looking for a strope, razor, brush and cream to get started (and anything else I have forgotten)

As this is my first razor, I am not looking for anything extravagant but I would like a good solid blade. Since it is my first blade, it may hold sentimental value and may keep it forever. My price range is around $50.00 or less for the blade itself and I am very open to used or antique blades. I actually prefer something with history. I prefer blades that are plain without scrolling, gold work or names etched into the blade itself, I appreciate a bright plain blade.

Thanks in advance for all the newb questions that you graciously take time to answer.

Sincerely,

Lance

Im sure you will find something in the clasifieds. You may end up with a blade that isnt new looking meaning some watermarks as most blades are carbon steel.

Thanks Bill,

No problem, I know in that price range its tough to get something perfect. I would rather have a higher quality blade with a few watermarks than a cheaper/new one that doesn't hold an edge or just doesn't offer a good shave.

Welcome to SRP Lance :chapeau

Patience will get you what you are after in a blade,
and patience will get you to great shaves. :tu

you did your homework, a 5/8 is a great start.

Welcome to the accepted madness of straight razor shaving. Check out not only the classifieds but web sites like Gemstarcustoms.com. At the tag end of his great razors for sale are a goodly number around the price range you have. All beautifully honed and Glen is an acknowledged honemeister.

Great, Thanks Razorfeld, I will check him out.

Thanks guys, appreciate the help.

L

Hi and welcome. Good luck with the search.

Where are you in Michigan? If you are near Adrian there is a wonderful shop called Maggard Razors. There are a lot of us from the Wolverine state here. Oh, and welcome!

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Originally Posted by coachschaller

Where are you in Michigan? If you are near Adrian there is a wonderful shop called Maggard Razors. There are a lot of us from the Wolverine state here. Oh, and welcome!

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Wish I was closer! I am in Grand Haven on the West side.

Check local antique stores too. You may find something nice. I found an almost unused Jr Torrey for 15 bucks at one. But I've seen junk at some places going for a lot more. Then get it hones professionally

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Originally Posted by JaberCrow

Check local antique stores too. You may find something nice. I found an almost unused Jr Torrey for 15 bucks at one. But I've seen junk at some places going for a lot more. Then get it hones professionally

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JaberCrow,

Thanks for the idea. There are actually two or three antique malls in the area, I will stop by and check them out. Might be able to find what I am looking for.

L

Welcome Lance. I was born back there, transplanted about the same time they invented dirt. You may find someone close enough to meet up with. I was in here almost a year before I met my (almost) next door neighbor. Check the members list for someone close by. Your local sources are bigger than you might think. I was surprised how many people are into this until I started talking about it. it sounds like your being smart about the whole thing so you should do well and have fun. Good luck with it all and will be watching for your adventures as you post them. :<0)

10Pups,

Thanks for the advice. I will certainly check the register and see if I can find someone local. I spent some time last week running through the local antique malls. I found 6 or 7 blades but they were all junk. It was fun, however to sift through all of the stuff and try and find that gem. You never know. I took pics of all of those that I found and then looked them up to see if they were worth buying. No luck, but a lot of fun.

Thanks again for the welcome.

Lance