Thread: Hello Everybody

Hello, I just registered here and wanted to say hi. I have not yet got my first straight razor but hopefully will be getting it soon. I have always been fascinated by straight razor shaving and wanted to do so for the longest time. Now I'm finally going to be able to. I have only seen three reviews of the brand of razor that I'm getting (Hart Steel 6/8th round point satin finish), but the ones I've read have been positive. Thank god for the toxic wood information on this site because I was going to get scales that could have possibly presented a problem, but seeing that, I was able to choose one not on that list When I do get it and shave with it I will let you know how it turns out! I'm glad that I choose to shave this way and really glad that I can be a part of a vast mountain of knowledge that there is always someone with a rope to help pull me up if I'm ever in need of help to learn!

Welcome Pagan2003. It will be an enjoyable ride and read. I hope you will pay attention to the many, many members all stating the same thing. Get your razor professionally honed before your first shave. learn the techniques of shaving before wanting to hone your own. Ask, ask, ask, and a plethora of answers will head your way.

The best advice I can give you is to ask on this post for members in your area that you can connect with and specifically a mentor that usually is more than willing to give you one on one meetings and hone a razor for you. Thousands of time better than always going through the forum. Enjoy.

Thanks I will, I just wish I could meet someone that could show me in person if I'm doing it right. I'm going to get the Norton 4000/8000 grit stone and when I'm more comfortable with everything try using that since I heard it is a good stone for beginners

Post loudly for a mentor in your area. As for stones, check in to the Naniwas, they don't need to be soaked before using. Just add water as you work them. I went with a Swaty barbers hone and will be getting a Naniwa 12000k for finishing. You might want to bookmark a series of videos make by Glen and Lynn on one stone honing when you feel comfortable to tackle that thorny area. Glen is gssixgun and Lynn is the founder of the forum.

Welcome to the forum Pagan (are you? or is it just a user name I should have picked to describe myself? ) Razorfeld has given you some sound advice there. I would get just a higher grit finisher stone first. Something like a 12k or higher, then when you're ready, preferably after a little tuition, you'll be able to keep a fresh edge on your razor indefinitely with proper care and attention.


Mick

Hi and welcome. Start by learning to shave and developing the basics. When your razors are getting dull then look at refreshing them. Full honing is not something really needed unless buying razors that require work or you chip a blade. A full bevel set is something you should rarely need. Maintenance is the easiest route and will help you ease your way into honing. As said a mentor will help you speed the process up enormously as they can teach you how and verify your progress. Starting by doing plenty of research will help you find the best route for you to take. Start in the library and vids and ifif you get stuck use the search at the top. Good luck and if you need help just ask. Were more than willing to help out.

Hello and welcome,
If you can't find a mentor to physically meet up with, a reasonable alternative is to at least find one you can either PM or email, you can even make videos for problem areas.
All the best
Ed.