Thread: Hello from noobie

I recently found out that using a straight razor is the most environmental-friendly way to shave and decided to look into it. After about 30 minutes of "thorough" research, I found out that straight razors are better than disposables and electric in almost every way. I found this forum through a pdf guide by Christopher Moss and I hoped someone could recommend a starter kit. I am almost sure that I will keep using straight razors for a long time and I know it takes much effort(and nicks :3), so I want a reliable kit. Keep in mind that I live in Greece.

Mike

Before you jump in check beginners in the library. Start with a round point 5/8 pr 6/8 that comes professionally honed. Get a decent strop. Practice stropping on an old leather belt with a dull knife to get the muscle memory and technique. Then shave your cheeks only until you are comfortable. Now you can proceed to the full face. Most important is stretching the skin and a good lather. Take it slowly as it takes time to master. The end is worth it.

As for a starter set. Maybe someone in your location can suggest that.

Welcome and best of luck.

Glad to have you here! Posting your location could help to find qualified help nearby.

Adding to the above,
Stropping is a precision art, not to be taken lightly! The strop should be taut; not pulling the hook from the wall but enough that the weight of the blade barely bends it.
Again, you are welcome here.
~Richard

Welcome to SRP. There is a lot of good information for beginner SR shavers in the library and in the various beginner threads.

I believe you have some real expert senior members and mentors in Greece, so please call on them for advice. Some may live near you.

Hello and welcome to SRP.
Enjoy your time here on the forum.

Pete <:-}

Welcome to SRP!

Originally Posted by mikos757

Keep in mind that I live in Greece.

Mike

Nice to have another European member... Herzlich Willkommen vom Österreich. I found the elements needed to put a “kit” together were: a straight razor, a strop, a brush, shave creme. This did not take into the numerous videos and tutorials I read as well as the extreme level of berated commentary I received from my Austrian teacher before finding this place. Esbjerg is local to me and in the EU but pricing and economics seem important to you. Please tell us more about what appeals to you and how you want to begin?

Welcome.
Step one is to read the info in our library on beginners.
Step two would be to see if theres a member close to you. You can find a list of folks here on the site.
Step three is the buy equipment. The info in the library will help you to pick the right starting place. You can buy vintage stuff at a decent price or spend lots of money. Stay away from made in china or a few others as there a list in the library of what NOT to buy.

Good luck and let us know what you find. Enjoy the learning as it will take a few months of shaving with a straight before it really comes together.

Welcome.

Welcome. You can post any questions you have, or you can PM a mentor.
As far as how to shop in Europe, I’m at a loss for an answer. There are some nice strop makers over ther, but you should start with an inexpensive one. Razors can be bought from many sources including in the BST section here. Shave ready is the biggest feature you need in a first razor.