Hello Folks! Greetings from Toronto!
Hello! I've decided to finally introduce myself. While not technically brand "new" ( I joined almost 2 years ago) this is my first time interacting with the community. I'm really excited and happy I found this place back in 2013. I really got into and have read up on the site for beginner's info and getting to know the site. I've learned a lot while on here.
Unfortunately I've never actually purchased a straight razor. In fact right now I used a simple shavette and a can or Barbasol. Although at one point I used a Wilkinson brush and shaving soap. Reason for this aside from my small knowledge at the time, I didn't know how to invest. So there I remained using my shavette for awhile. On top of that any time I would save money and want to invest life always had me spending it on something else. Priorities right? I've worked hard since summer, and I'm getting a really nice bonus as the holidays approach and I figured it should be damn time I bought a nice straight razor! And this is where I'm hoping to get some help with!
I prefer to buy some kind of set as oppose to separately buying all the items I need. I've looked a few places online but I constantly find myself at this crossroad: Should I invest in expensive stuff that I know I'll possibly defect while in my learning phase (i.e namely the strop, hopefully never the razor), or take the more inexpensive route and feel comfortable making mistakes? I've found what I consider a great deal online with a reputable seller only a few hours away from me. It comes with the following for only 239 or 209:
1 Badger Hair Brush w/Stand
1 White or Tortoise 5/8 Dovo Half-Hollow ground blade
1 Tan leather strop with Russian finish and cloth side
1 Proraso shaving cream
1 Shave Alum block
Now I don't know much about deals and all, but this definitely seems affordable to me. Should I reconsider and purchase instead more inexpensive materials to start with? I just worry I'll ruin anything new as I've never used a strop or anything. It comes shave ready and with a free re-honing. Can anybody recommend me anything better or tips before I purchase? I prefer to buy within Canada or even in person preferably. I'm also looking for a Mentor in Toronto and was wondering where to go about that and how?
I'm really excited to FINALLY start this after waiting on the sidelines and planning forever to make a purchase. Thank you all for your help and welcome in advance!
