Thread: Hello from NC, need advice.

Hello,

My name is Brian. I am looking at getting a straight razor due to hearing that it helps with skin irritation and problems associated with razor burn that I currently have with modern razors. I use a mach3 and other similar razors and have the same results with major skin problems, my face gets very sore lately after shaving, to the point where I dont want to shave. I need to shave since I am in the military and it is required.

At any rate a few guys I know have switched to straight razors and love them and they say they can tell a major difference in both quality of shave and not getting the negative results of a modern razor.

I found this razor, Dovo Black "Bismarck" 6/8" Straight Razor. Would this be a good razor for starting out with straight razors. Money is really not a big deal for me due to just wanting my face to stop hurting all day after shaving. But I dont want to spend $500 for my first razor just in case I decide not to continue with straight razors. If the initial results are good I would be willing to spend more on future razors.

Also I know that there is more to shaving with a straight razor than with a new style razor like the mach3. What do I need besides the razor, like what is the best soap, cup, brush, etc.?

Thank you for you help and advice.

Sincerely

Brian Greig

1. The important thing about your first razor is that it must be sharp. They don't come sharp from the factory, they must be honed. It costs about $25 to get a razor honed professionally (see the classifieds here). Don't use someone local. You need someone who specializes in razor honing.

2. I'd recommend a 5/8" wide blade with a rounded point. Your Dovo should work fine: It's a top brand. Large blades are better for heavier beards, but 6/8" is not bad.

3. You will need a strop to keep the edge sharp in daily use, and a good quality shave cream plus brush. You can start with a $10 kit from Rite-Aid, Target and other places that has Van der Hagen soap, bowl and brush in it.

4. Buy the Lynn Abrams DVD here and watch it. It covers all the issues in detail.

5. Remember this: Use the least possible pressure. The blade should glide or float. Don't press. This applies to honing, stropping and shaving. It is the hardest thing to learn. Otherwise you end up with a dull razor or a cut face.

6. You might also check out double edge razor systems. You can get razors that are mild to shave with that might work for you.

7. Your lather should be creamy, not frothy. If frothy, use less water and "beat your cream" longer. Sometimes it takes a minute or two to get the right consistency. If the lather is too dry, it will stick to your blade and not rinse off. Use a little more water then.

8. When you strop, use an "X" pattern to get even coverage, let the blade glide and don't press down, flip the blade over on its spine at the end of each stroke (using your fingers, not your wrist), and have the spine leading and the edge trailing. The strop should remain pretty much flat while stropping, and your action should be smooth. Do about 20 full circle laps. You can find a lot of stops on ebay for $20 or so.

9. Beware of ebay razors: A lot of them have problems (e.g., warpage or uneven wear), and even if they say "shave ready" they may not be sharp enough. If you do buy a razor on ebay, get one that's described as "new" or "mint" (will cost $60-$120), and then send it out to be honed.

Welcome To SRP!.

You made a great choice for your set. Be sure to ask any questions you may have. There is always plenty of wonderful advice from the great members.

Enjoy the journey!

Welcome to SRP!

Indeed, you made good choices.

Best of Luck!

Ronnie

Originally Posted by Ronnie

Welcome to SRP!

Indeed, you made good choices.

Best of Luck!

Ronnie

Got the razor, looks and works great. I feel that this could become addictive, I am already looking for my next razor.

Brian

Welcome to SRP Gentleman !