Thread: Hello from a new guy.

Hello everyone. I just completed my first straight razor shave today. I have been using a safety razor for about 2 years now, and figured this was the next step. Wow what a close shave. I purchased the beginners razor from razoremporium.com, and although it is cheap it was a much closer shave than with my merkur safety razor. I didn't think I could get closer than that. Any advice for someone who is completely new to straight razor shaving is completely welcomed. I don't want to cut my face off.

Thanks.

Welcome to SRP!
You can start by reading the Beginner's Section in the Library. It's a deep hole filled with lots of information.
And ask questions. We are here to help.

Welcome! Do a lot of reading here and feel free to ask questions. Your first straight should be followed by a better one soon. I just got that same new "shave ready" razor sent in to me today for honing. The edge is deeply pitted, which is why the shave was so uncomfortable.

Properly honed gold dollars can shave; but then again, Yugos do drive.

You can find much better options here in the Buy/Sell/Trade. No matter where you might consider finding new toys, feel free to ask for advice here.

Welcome.
Keep your skin tight, your lather moist, and your angle low.
A beard map is always helpful.
Stropping technique is crazy important.
There are a lot of rabbit holes.
Have fun.

Welcome to SRP!
Now if you thought that the factory edge on that razor was sharp, then you will be blown away after you get it REALLY honed. You have some great folks here that are willing to help you along this new hobby. Be sure to read the info in our library about beginners, and send that razor out for a hand honing! We have many folks here that are willing to hone one for you. Watch the buy/sell/trade thread and pick you up an Actually Shave Ready Razor from a member here. It will cost you less and will cut whiskers without any pulling. You can find them for as little as 25 to 40 bucks if you watch for them. It's a deal that can't be beaten! You can find really nice razors for hundreds here too but save your money until you know this is for you.

Ask questions and join in on the fun. We discuss many things here, not just shaving.

Can't really add to the advice the previous posters have given so will just say welcome to the forum.

Bob

Hi and welcome aboard. A decent razor and a bit of practice and the shaves will continue to get better. Good luck and any questions just ask

Welcome to the forum! I think @RezDog's poem pretty much covers the bases.

Hello and welcome to SRP.
Shave slow and steady while learning.
Stay in your comfort zone. If something doesn't feel right, put the razor down and take a breather.
Take all the good advice given and have fun learning.

Pete <:-}

There is a member of this forum who goes by the handle of "Pinklather". Think about that and be careful...