Welcome to SRP! I'll put in my 2 cents to your questions.
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Originally Posted by
TravelingMan32
1. Whats the difference between 5/8, 6/8 etc.
None that you will be able to notice.
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2. Are the scales for looks, preference or otherwise?
Mostly for looks, although they have a slight effect on the balance of the razor, but again, it wouldn't make much of a difference for you at this stage in the game.
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3. Whats the difference between the "rounded edge at the end of the blade and the one that looks flat on the end like a butchers knife"?
Round vs spike point. If the spike point is sharpened all the way to the tip, you can cut yourself easier. Many who use a spike purposely dull the tip so that they don't have that to deal with that. The round tip won't have that problem, but some feel the round tip gets in the way and that the spike is able to achieve more accuracy. I use round tips 95% of the time and have never had a problem with accuracy.
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4. Carbon and stainless differences?
If you don't keep your razor properly dry, the carbon will rust easier than the stainless. The carbon will also take an edge easier than a stainless (and some say a better edge), but when an edge is properly gotten, the stainless will hold it for longer.
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5. Thickness, weights etc.
Some say the more hollow ground the razor, the closer the shave, but also more potentially harsh. Vise versa for more wedge shapes. Probably wont' make too much of a difference for you at this point. A middle of the road razor is probably best though.
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6. A good beginner strop?
I like ruprazor myself.
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7. Whole/half hone?
No hone. Don't try to hone for awhile, you will have your hands full just getting shaving technique down. That said, you want to make sure your razor is shave ready. By the time it needs its first honing (if you didn't damage it in some other way) you will know if you want to hone your razor or sent it to a honemeister.
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8. Oils,stones, proper care?
Try not to let the razor get too wet. Dry it off carefully when you are done, give it a light stropping to remove any bits of moisture or gunk form the very edge, and store it in a dry place. A light oiling with something like camellia oil helps prevent rust.
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Again, these questions are from a beginners point of view until i gain more knowledge on products and so forth. Any reccomendations on what to buy/where will be more than helpful.
Read up on the wiki. In particular brands to avoid and known quality brands. Don't get your first razor off ebay or the flee market, but buy from a place that is recognized as being able to put a shave ready edge on the razor (Dont' even think about taking it to a knife shop for sharpening). Your best bet would be to make a thread with any potential razor purchases and get some feedback from the more experienced members.
Lastly, understand that getting a good shave with a straight requires more than just a sharp razor, but proper technique as well. In the beginning you won't have good technique. Even if you have memorized the wiki, you will still have to develop the feel and coordination to properly use a straight. During this time, expect sub par shaves. Usually after the first dozen shaves, you will start getting better. Soon, you will be able to get a shave so close and comfortable that you will just want to rub your face all day. Faceturbation we call it. You will also get the great satisfaction that comes with shaving with a straight. Instead of a chore, it becomes a pleasure.
