Hello From South Florida

Hi, my name is Reilly, Im from Chicago but live in Florida currently.

I recently took up straight razor shaving after a trip to Rome last month, where i received the best shave i have ever had from a barber there named Silvano Rossi. The experience was like no other and that was pretty much the start of what seems to be an addiction.

When i got home i picked up a griffon razor from the classifieds here for about $50. When it arrived i couldnt wait to give it a shot. I dont have thick facial hair, so at the most i only shave 3 times per week, usually 2 times. so the other day i had my first self given straight razor shave and it was great. I was also pleased i didnt nick myself at all. couple of weepers as i have hear the term used here. i have since used the razor one other time, but i didnt strop in between, the second shave was equally gratifying though. No nicks either.

I just ordered an illinois razor strop #827 from ebay. and i am excited for that to arrive.

My question for you guys is should i refrain from using the razor agian until the strop arrives and i can strop it? I always completely dry off the razor before storing it, is there anything else i should do? Also, when the strop arrives, should i strop it after a shave or before, or does it matter?

Thanks

Hi Reilly, welcome to SRP. For stropping info I really like the 1961 barber manual excerpt in the SRP Wiki help files here. The suggestion to practice flipping the razor without doing the stroke until you've got it learned may save you from nicking your strop. Also holding the tang between the tips of the thumb and forefinger and doing the stroke without bending the wrist.

I live in FL too and I always strop before and after. Following the shave I rinse the razor, wipe it with a tissue and then strop 20 on leather only. Helps to get any micro gunk off of the edge. I wipe it down with a rust preventative and put it in a drawer. Humid down here so you can't be too careful. I would go ahead and shave even if the strop isn't here yet. The worst that can happen is it won't be quite as keen.

Check out the SRP Wiki here for lots more tutorials and videos . :gl:

Hi Reilly. Welcome to SRP!

It sounds like you are off to a really good start. Jimmy gave you some great advice, I don't really have anything to add to it.

I just wanted to say welcome, and feel free to jump right in and get involved in the forums. Post lots of questions.

Hello, Reilly:

Welcome to SRP. JimmHad's advice is sound and covers just about everything. Go with it. If any questions come up, post them and you'll have your answer. Good luck to you. We're delighted to have you here.

Regards,

Obie

G'day & welcome. Most of us strop before shaves but as you have found an adequate shave can be had a 2nd time without stropping. How many times you can do that depends on a bunch of variables but hopefully your strop arrives soon.