Intrigued in Oregon

I've been thinking about switching from my Schick Quattro for a while. It's the best cartridge shave I've found, but I can't actually get a clean shave without tearing up my face. It has been good enough, but I'd like to make the jump to a straight razor.

I discovered an English Leather disposable shave bowl with soap, unused, in a thrift store this weekend. I was wondering if it's possible that it is any good. It definitely smells good, but it is probably older than I am (26).

Anyway, looks like a great community, and I'm glad to have stumbled on it.

Welcome to SRP! Hope you do manage to make the switch to straights.Those of us (and there are a lot) who have made the switch and gotten past the learning curve will never go back to the Mach whatever.Do lots of reading in the Wiki,get a pro-honed razor and a strop,and you're good to go.That English leather soap might still be useable,I know that original Old Spice soaps are still well sought after and used.
Straight Razor Place Wiki:Books/Beginners Guide - Straight Razor Place Wiki

Welcome, you've found the right spot to help you make that "jump." Approximately two months ago, I picked up a straight with the idea of it being my "occassional" way to shave. Since the first shave, I've not used any other means of mowing the whiskers...

Take your time, read the information here, ask questions, and when you're ready, pick up a good shave ready blade from the classifieds or from one of the vendors advertising here, and enjoy!

Keep us posted, and good shaving to you!

welcome to srp.

There isn't much that can go wrong with a soap, it 'cures' for a brief period, but that's before it even gets on the shelves to sell. It's likely still quite good, so just give it a try. Of course it may not be very good soap due to the way it's made, not due to being old, but you can find out. I use some vintage english soap myself made by yardley.

Hopefully you will make the switch to straight razors, but even if you don't go all the way I'd suggest a DE. Either razor will make the Schick look like a joke by comparison.