Thread: New guy on the block

Just registered and don't know squat about straight razors. Thanks for the opportunity to join and learn.
I found this forum and thought I'd see if I could learn something new.
I was given 9 razors buy a friend who's father used to shave with them. Don't know if I want to use them (never shaved with a straight razor) or just "hang em' on the wall". All of them except two are in excellent shape. One has a nick in the blade and the other has a broken handle at the end where the blade attaches.
I wanted to get some info as to how to shave with them (might give it a try), if I should try to sharpen or hone them and if possible their value. I think two of them have Ivory handles.
If you all would like I could post pics of them.
Let me know if I'm at the right place.

Welcome! You are definitely at the right place!

For your razors, it would be best to send them to a honemeister to get sharpened. You can find a listing of people here: Member Services - Straight Razor Place Classifieds

As for learning, check out the wiki pages for beginners, as well as equipment, stropping, and shaving. Of course, the forums are a great place to ask specific questions.

Now, of course we want to see your collection. So don't be shy about posting pics and details!

This is the right place. Check out the Wiki and other resources. Don't try to hone anything until you understand the difference in honing razors as opposed to pocketknives or other blades. It takes different stones and technique. The other observations is... why not try to use them. clean them up get them shave ready and give them a try. practice and careful attention to detail make the difference. there is a lot of info and help available here.

Pics will help for sure. Stick around a while, learn how to shave with a straight... it will be worth the effort!

Try the wiki for info on shaving etc, it may be overwhelming but the info is all there.

Thanks all. I will take pics and post them. I'll try for tomorrow. In the meantime I'll check out your suggestions.