greetings from northeast PA!

so I happened upon this website and I've been browsing for awhile, figured I'd introduce myself properly. I'm looking to start wet shaving, and I'd like to jump right to a straight razor, but I'm wondering if there's any affordable/decent ones as most I look at are upwards of 150. I don't want to spend that much on something I'm just getting interested in, and I wouldn't want to damage such an expensive piece of equipment with improper technique. so if anyone feels like pointing me in the right direction I'd be very grateful :) I found a Dovo that looks like it has a replaceable double edged blade, but I'd like to learn and practice how to strop too, not sure if that's a possibility with that type of razor.

Hi and welcome. Check out the classifieds and you can find shave ready razors from about 35 up. SRD have razors from about 100 up for new razors. Check out the library for all the starter info. Any questions feel free to ask. Good luck. Ed

Welcome. I myself am from nepa (Hazleton). Try keeping an eye on the classifieds here for a descent priced shave ready razor. You would also need to pick up a strop, for that you have many options. You could pick up a fromm (Illinois strop company) for under $50 too. Good luck.

Welcome to SRP ryancnap :chapeau
You can get a Dovo for under a $100, look at the sets from SRD or Vintage Blades under $150 will get you started.
Although many refer to the Dovo Best Quality as a starter razor there is no such thing.
It is a solid razor just not a Fancy Razor beyond that you are paying more for the bling factor.
The shavette or disposable blade style will not need stropping but at the same time it is a good way to get your feet (or should I say Face) wet.
Poke around a bit at the vendors here and you will see several sets that will get you in for less than the $150.
Quite a few people have used Whipped Dog's sight unseen to try out straight razor shaving.
A very affordable option to test the waters but no guarantee you will get a pretty razor.....

Just some food for thought and a few options for you.

Regards
Pat

well thanks for the warm welcomes and recommendations! I found the Illinois 835 strop and the Dovo Best Quality 5/8 from SRD for only $80. I think I'll pick up the shavette first to get my face wet as you said, to get used to it. next on my list is a decent but not prohibitively priced brush, and I guess I should look into shaving creams as well.

You can get a good quality badger brush from Larry at whippeddog.com for a reasonable price. If budget is really an issue Wal-Mart and Target sell Van Der Hagen or VDH kits with a brush bowl and soap for around 10-15. The brush Iis boar hair.