Hello from Monterey, CA

Just started shaving with a straight razor, have been wet shaving for about 10 years with a Merkur Progress DE, which I love, but I moonlight a couple days a month at a cutlery shop and we sell straight razors. So I figured I had better know what I am talking about if I am going to sell them. I have to say, I have been enjoying using it. It's a bit intimidating, but I am learning and I have yet to cut myself. I haven't gotten the closest shaves mind you, but I only have 3 shaves under my belt so far. So any advise you all can give in the future is much appreciated!

Welcome to SRP!
Start off by reading the beginner's section in the library. There is a lot of good information in there for when you start out.
If your razor hasn't been professionally honed, then get it honed - there are honing services available in the classifieds of this site.
Go slow when you are stropping.
Ask questions if you don't understand something.

And most importantly - enjoy your shave!

Hello, TWright. Welcome to Straight Razor Place!

Welcome to the forum. You will find plenty of helpful members here.

Hi and welcome. If it still has the factory edge the get it honed properly. Take it slow and it will come together with practice although its not going to happen overnight. Good luck and any questions feel free to ask

Hi TWright & welcome to SRP. If you follow criswilson10's advice, that is a good place to start & go from there. You will find that using a straight is the best, smoothest & closest shave you can get if honed & stropped correctly. I'm sure you must have a strop. There is a lot of good information in the library so use it & learn. You won't regret it. You will want to try different soaps & creams also & a good brush makes a difference. It is all personal preference also. I don't know if the cutlery shop you are working at sells shave ready razors or if they hone but if not, it might be a good idea to learn. You might be able to offer a new service there. Here's an interesting link you might want to check out:

http://straightrazorpalace.com/honin...rt-honing.html

If you have any questions just ask.
Good luck my friend.

Howdy "T", & welcome to SRP. Great to have you aboard. Enjoy your new found craft and don't get discouraged. Everything comes in time. Should become easier after you get10 under your belt

Welcome to SRP! I'm just a little north of you in the east bay.

Welcome to straights. It is a bit habit forming.:ziplip:


Mike