New Old Guy

[apipeguy]

Been thinking about using a straight razor off and on for a long time. Getting tired of spending $42 for a pack of blades that are thrown away and attached to a plastic handle. Would rather spend money on things that I can hold and will always have.

Ordered a Ralf Aust 5/8th and kit from SRD (upgraded to a 3" strop). Hoping it will be delivered today. Almost ordered a cheap kit from another company but decided if I'm going to do this I'm going to start with quality. Pretty excited about getting it.

I've had the last two days off work and have spent a great deal of time reading here to get ready. Although I haven't put blade to face yet, I've learned a lot and will be taking it slow and starting with just one cheek and working my way from there. If I had not read so much I would have just gone at my whole face blindly.

I'm just an old cop (37 years and counting) kind of old school, carry a 1911, smoke a pipe and reload on a single stage press, so this should fit me well.

In any case thanks for what I've been able to learn so far and in advance for all that I will learn.

[LexTac]

Welcome to the SRP Forum!

I am a big John Moses Browning fan as well. You should fit right in!

Here is a link that will help you find other SRP members in your area, just insert your location and hit search now. Note that the user name listing in red is a mentor, if you should need any personal help.

Here is a link to the SRP Library. This will help you with pretty much anything relating to shaving with a straight razor.

Welcome to the world of straight razor shaving!

[rhensley]

First welcome to the world of straight users. I warn you that your going down the path of no return. I started with one and now RAD has eaten me alive. But it is an addiction and an addiction with really no cure. Oh we may not acquire another razor for a month or two but the urge is still there. I quite smoking easier than I could quite the straights. You've started out with good equipment Oh what am I saying it's all good to us that have the affliction. So again welcome. enjoy and let us know how it's going .

[Raol]

Hello and welcome to SRP Pipeguy,
Great intro' and great choice in blades.
Send us a pic of your razor on the "Ralf Aust Club" thread.
Now you can S.L.A.M.!!!!

[MJC]

Welcome to the forum

Also a fan of John Browning - if you come up with the 1911 and the Ma Deuce...what more can we say?

You have no doubt read that your RA will come shave ready, so don't strop it out of the box.

And search for a Mentor in the area, it is time well spent.

Smooth Shaving...

[Leatherstockiings]

Hello, apipeguy. Welcome to SRP!
Good choice with the Aust.

[Optometrist]

Welcome to SRP

[TheMonk]

Welcome to SRP!

[RezDog]

Welcome. Nice choice in shaving gear. I hope you find all the information you need to get you on your way. There is a lot of friendly people here if you need some direction.

[eddy79]

Hi and welcome. Sounds like you have been reading the library already and have done the research to start with the right equipment and the right way. Good luck with your shaves and any questions for free to ask