New Guy Here with Question!

Hello SRP members!

I am a complete noob when it comes to straight edge shaving but after no longer being able to handle the way the Mach 3 / fusion cartridge beats up my neck (user error / sensitive skin) I have decided to start a new hobby with this and see if this can get me a better shaving experience.

Can anyone recommend a razor for a beginner? Is there such a thing? I have read that some people say to buy a new or modern and others seem to be recommending a used one from a classified from members that can truly deliver a "shave ready" razor.

I apologize if I'm using any of the terms incorrectly. I'm trying to learn as much as I can so I can make a good purchase. I would be looking to spend no more than $150 -$200 tops if that's even necessary. I'm hoping that is enough to get something of quality that shaves great?? Any advice or suggestions will be greatly appreciated!

You can definitely get started for that price. I think my Aust straight razor, strop, brush, and cream from Straight Razor Designns was within your price range. Going with SRD you will get a shave ready razor with a gift certificate for your first re-honing. As far as the razor goes, a round point, full hollow ground 5/8 or 6/8 is often recommended.

Vintage is another viable option, but might be a little trickier for someone new to Straight Razor shaving. The source is very important which is why the classifieds here are considered much safer than auction sites.

Welcome to SRP. Good luck on your journey!

I would like to add to the above the importance of a shave ready razor. Even factory edges from good manufactures need to be hand honed by someone that knows what they are doing. Once you receive the shave ready razor DO NOT strop it before your first shave. Some basic prep and lather and shave.

You have not included your location in your profile. I have no idea where I might recommend buying from. In the US Straight Razor Designs has a good reputation and Classic Edge in Canada is a great place to look for new. The classifieds here often has stellar deals on vintage blades and are clearly marked as too shave readiness. You will also need a strop and likely a brush and a good soap. There are a lot of options, don;t let it confuse you.

Welcome to SRP!
I'll second the starter kit from Straight Razor Designs. It's a good deal and I don't think you could wrong with anything purchased from them.

Or if in Europe, maybe the starter kit direct from Aust. He's about the only maker with a good reputation for his blades being shave ready out of the box. Enjoy the learning curve.

Welcome and enjoy the journey. I "third" the suggestion on SRD store if you are in USA. Support the man who made this forum possible!

Guys, thank you so much for the replies! The starter kit seems to be the best starting placeg. I'm in Portland, Maine in the U.S.. Of the dovo sets listed there with the strop, other than price, is there a model that is better geared towards a beginner or better than the others? Thanks again guys!

Welcome to SRP.

You've received some sound suggestions so far. I would like to add that if you do find a razor on an auction site you are really interested in, you could ask for input in the ebay/auctions section of the forum. Sometimes a good looking razor may have had work done to it that is not noticeable to most people. If you do buy an older/used razor, don't bother with one that needs restoration. If it needs more than honing, it isn't worth the trouble for a beginner. I know!

A shave ready razor and strop set from StraightRazorDesigns would definitely be the simplest option for someone with your budget.

I would definitely stick with a new leather strop though. If you buy a used one, it may wrinkles, cuts, etc. that would negatively affect its' performance.


I will add one more point, others may disagree with me though. Since there is a learning process to straight shaving, and it will take more time in the beginning, I would recommend getting a double edge safety razor as well.
I'm still learning how to get a good shave with a straight, so I frequently still use my DE safety razor. Also, if you are in a hurry it is a nice option to have.

I don't have any experience with Dovos so I really can't say for sure, but the 5/8 and 6/8 full hollow Best Quality are popular choices. I still think the Aust is ideal and one of the better values in newly manufactured razors.

Hi and welcome. Any razor by Aust, Dovo or Boker are going to be a good quality blade. Price tends to increase with handle materials and other frills like gold wash and etchings etc. The bsser models shave just the same and will last just as long. Good luck and if you get stuck or are unsure of anything just ask and we will help as much as possible.

Excellent point about frills, handle materials, and etchings increasing price but not necessarily adding to the shave quality, eddy79.

Just a difference in feel. The latigo will have a little more draw than the premium, all personal preference. Either will do a good job.

Welcome to the forum. You've definitely come to the right place. If you have sensitive skin around the neck, don't initially expect a straight to cure your problem. Until you get your technique sorted (which can take a while), your neck may still be irritated. It depends on so many factors, such as the edge on your blade (which depends on your stropping), the cream/soap you use and how many passes you make. I don't want to put you off at all, just think you should be aware that SR shaving won't be a quick fix. However, in the long run, your neck will thank you, so go for it. Have you ever used a DE? You can pick one of these up very cheaply, and it might be a simpler step from your cartridge razor before moving to an SR. Which ever route you decide on, good luck and let us know how you get on.

I started with a 5/8 Round Point R. Aust. Paid $102 new. Look , IMO that 5/8-6/8 , round point will be good to start with. As long as its horn and sharpen you will be ok!

Thinking about this post and my recommendation for the Ralf Aust 5/8th, I refreshed the blade yesterday and shaved with mine today. Total BBS. It is a relatively inexpensive razor but man, they shave good.

I'm planning to shave with my Aust 5/8 roundpoint tomorrow. It was my first straight razor.

It was mine too; a great razor. And there are soooo many more out there.
My advise get a copy of Lee’s CD . Its a wealth of information.
Good luck H

Here is a link to a partial list of SRP members in Maine. Check out the "About me" section of each one and see who might be able to give you some 1 on 1 help.

http://straightrazorpalace.com/membe...rt=posts&pp=50

Hope this helps. :)