Thread: New to straight razors - Lakewood

Originally Posted by JMcRae

Wow, I take time out for a cigar/jacuzzi/whiskey break and already have some outstanding support !

First question: I wear a goatee and moustache - should that influence the razor I select?

It shouldn't matter. As I gained more experience I got a Henry Sears 3/8 and a shavette for detailing my moustache and let the big blades do the heavy work.

As a beginner you really don't want a big meat chopper nor do you want a super narrow like my 3/8. The big ones will probably be clumsy to untrained hands and the small ones can be just wicked for nicks. My advice is to try a 5/8 hollow.

Hello, and welcome aboard!! I stated at 51 years young!!

Some think a 3" strop is good to begin with, no need to do and x stroke, but then again if you learn right away your good to go, I have been doing with 2 1/2" strop since I started, so there's that to think Of. Tc

With that set up I think you will be just fine. Yes get Lynn's DVD. I've watched several snippets of it on youtube as well as his youtube channel. The man is great and even a long time straight shaver like me gleaned some tips from him.

Another useful forum here is the Shave Of The Day where you can see just what some of the guys use and do for their shave rituals.

Good luck and have fun.

Copy that

First shave today, rushed it - cut myself 3 times

I know what I did wrong, will be better next time!

Ok, after watching a lot of video (including Lynn's DVD which came yesterday) and reading a bit, here's the after action report.

Didn't strop the razor. It came to me honed (Cory) - But I hadn't put the hook on the wall yet

Not enough face prep. Watching Lynn's video, the hot towel went on TWICE (just like my barber does)

Noticed a few other things in the video, Lynn only has a finger or two on the spine of the razor - I had all but the pinky. Might make a difference.

FWIW, the kids found Lynn's video much more entertaining than watching be go over Gold Star online Ground School...

Hi and welcome from Amsterdam

Welcome to the forum Jeff. Take it easy. Slow and steady wins this race and never, ever, rush. Take your time and enjoy the shave. Watch everything you can find. Opinions and techniques may differ, but you'll find what works for you. I also have a goatee and handlebar 'tash which I keep about 2" long. I find spike points best for edging, but I do use round points too. Good luck!