Thread: New at wet shaving

Hello, I am new to the idea of shaving with a straight razor.
I am a over the road truckdriver and have a few questions
about straight razor care.
(1) Does a straight razor have to stropped before every shave.
(2) If it does, would I be better using a razor that uses the
Disposable blades like the dovo shaver.
Thanks for your help.

Welcome to SRP

It should be stropped before every shave for comfort and to align the edge. Strops don't take up a ton of space when hanging.

I have never used the shavette. I don't mind the maintenance required for the straight. Actually I enjoy the maintenance.

Hi and welcome. Definitely want to strop between shaves. You can always get a paddle strop. Wouldn't take much room and fit in a bag easily

Originally Posted by PDorsey

Hello, I am new to the idea of shaving with a straight razor.
I am a over the road truckdriver and have a few questions
about straight razor care.
(1) Does a straight razor have to stropped before every shave.
(2) If it does, would I be better using a razor that uses the
Disposable blades like the dovo shaver.
Thanks for your help.

Welcome to SRP and the adventure of traveling the roads of straight, double edge and single edge shaving. Yes, a straight edge shouldbe stropped before each shave to keep the edge aligned and sharp. Since you are a truck driver a hanging strop would not always be easy to use. I would suggest a paddle strop since you can hold it in one hand while you strop with a light touch. Check out SRD site for paddle strops with easily changed surfaces.

A shavette is also a viable choice. Many members use one exclusively or as part of a multiple types of razors regime. Myself, I use basically a straight razor, but will on occasion or when rushed use a shavette, a DE or a SE. A shavette is similar to a straight but requires a slightly different approach as to angles and the like.

I would like to strongly suggest that you read in the SRP library for information. And if time is short to definitely read the FAQ. They, in a way, summarize the Library with a few links to areas that are more complex. Also, ask any question you can't seem to find an answer for. The Mentors and experienced members are more than happy to answer.

One thing I like about a straight razor over a DE is you can shave a couple days growth easy with no discomfort. You can easily hang a strop in your truck. Try it you won't regret it. It may take a couple of months to get the hang of it.

hello and welcome

Welcome to SRP! Plenty of good advice already. I will just say good luck!

PDorsey, one thing I forgot to say. Since you are an over the road trucker should you get out my way and need or want some face-to-face or hands on experience with the razors PM if you are in or near Oregon. You will be most welcome.