Hello from central IL

Hi all, I've had the wonderful fortune of coming across these forums during my quest for my first razor, and I must say I am very impressed. Having taken part in a few forums before, I am somewhat surprised at the high level of respect and willingness to help that is prevalent here. Truly a gentlemanly, and ladylike of course, atmosphere.

I have recently picked up what I feel to be a steal at an antique shop: a James Barlow and Sons, of Sheffield, razor for right around $20. I had fully intended to, and still do, try to find a razor that is fully shave-ready but could simply not pass this one up. I'm looking forward to participating in these forums, and want to thank everybody in advance for their input.

On another note, while not the correct place to post this I figure why clutter up the boards with a question that can probably be answered succinctly, how does one know when it is time to hone. Obviously when the edge cannot be made shave-ready on a strop, but is there some sort of telltale sign?

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Originally Posted by adbuett

I have recently picked up ... a James Barlow and Sons, of Sheffield, razor. I'm looking forward to participating in these forums, and want to thank everybody in advance for their input.

On another note, while not the correct place to post this I figure why clutter up the boards with a question that can probably be answered succinctly, how does one know when it is time to hone. Obviously when the edge cannot be made shave-ready on a strop, but is there some sort of telltale sign?

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Hi there, and welcome to SRP. You are right, this is a great place :) Here is the place to start your homework... tons of info that will save you even more time and frustration, but should be considered mandatory reading IMHO THE WIKI

That said, it really comes down to how the razor shaves (or doesn't shave in some cases). A shave ready razor will feel smooth and comfortable so long as you are using proper technique and prep (see the wiki!).

Good to have you aboard, any chance we could get a pic of your Barlow and Sons?

welcome...as stated in the above post, you will know by the shave or the "feel" of the blade when it needs to be honed. feel free to ask any and all questions as the members here are more than willing to help everyone get started in the right direction...good luck

adbuett,

Hello from central Indiana and welcome to SRP...

First, a hearty congratualtions on your str8 razor acquisition. There is no need to feel guilty about that terrific James Barlow and Sons str8 razor you picked up for a steal. Believe me, its not the first str8 razor you'll be adding to your collection. Many SRP members have multiple razors in their daily shaving rotation.

As for your question...Perhaps the best place to post your question would be the honing forum. Of course, you could also: 1) log onto the weekly chat and ask your question to assembled SRP members; or 2) send a private message w/ your question to Lynn Abrams, founder of SRP, and an expert at honing.

As for honing...My advice to any newbie is to not jump into honing your razor too quickly. Concentrate on your stropping technique. Spend the extra $20.00 or so to send the razors you really love to an expert for honing. After consulting the SRP wiki on honing, you can always find an old razor or two real cheap either in the SRP "Classifieds" or an antique store to develop and perfect your honing skills.

BTW...It would be nice if you could post a photo or two of your str8 razor here on SRP, perhaps in the "Show and Tell" forum.:)

Just my 2 cents of advice...Take it for what its worth.

jhenry: I will definitely throw a couple pictures of the blade up in show and tell. Thanks for the warm welcome all!

adbuett,

Welcome to the group. It's a great place to learn about the art of straight razor shaving. If you haven't checked out the beginner section in the Wiki. I encourage you to do so. There is a wealth of information that can answer many of your questions.

Straight Razor Place Wiki:Books/Beginners Guide - Straight Razor Place Wiki

First straight razor shave - Straight Razor Place Wiki


If you can't find your answer here, please feel free to ask, I am sure someone will be more than happy to help you out.