Greetings from the North Country!

Hi all!

I guess I joined this site (as I'm sure like many) because I'm fed up with having to deal with the ever increasing number of bladed razors on the market that only seem to get better at getting clogged.

I'm humbly admitting that I know next to nothing about straight razors. That being said, my fiancée suggested that she would get me a razor for my upcoming birthday. So in an effort to educate myself in this somewhat intimidating topic, I joined.

I'm hoping to get some advice from you good people about the myriad of things I should know before embarking on this endeavor! I've read the FAQ section, as well as the 'shopping list for beginners'. However, as I'm sure many people are, I still feel fairly lost. Because I'm also collegiately destitute (as is my fiancée), I've been considering the Dovo Solingen "Best Quality" 6/8. However I'm sure there are many factors which I should be considering in addition to price. I guess what I'm getting at is that I would appreciate a shaving 'yoda' to help me through this with as little cuts and bruises as possible so I can enjoy shaving again.

Hello there sahneh,

I'm no shaving "yoda", but I can certainly give you my opinions and experiences.

First, welcome to SRP. There is a plethora of useful information here, and many friendly people to guide you through your new processes.

Before you purchase a single razor, I highly suggest that you take a look at some of the shaving websites that have their banners on SRP. My go-to website is Straight Razor Designs, run by Lynn and Don.

On their website, you will find monthly specials, and package deals. You will be able to purchase a razor, strop, and brush in one package, should that appeal to you. Their customer service is outstanding, and I've always received replies to my email questions in a timely manner.

Of course, there are many websites that sell shaving gear, this is just my favourite.

The Dovo 6/8 you speak of will serve you well. I still use my Dovo 5/8 regularly, and it was my first razor. It provides a great shave.

For your first strop, there are many options. If you ask ten people what to get, you'll most likely get 10 different answers. I would suggest buying a nice strop to begin with, because should you knick the heck out of it, the cost of a replacement piece of leather is roughly the same cost as buying a less expensive strop to begin with. So you spend the same: inexpensive strop, knick it....buy expensive strop. OR buy expensive strop, knick it, buy replacement leather.

Lastly, if you add your location to your avatar details, you may find that there is a "yoda" in your area who may meet with you to help you with your techniques.

Have fun,
Maxi

Welcome to SRP,:)

Another option is the SRP Classified Ads for quality vintage razors. They could save you some money.

Be sure and start reading the Wiki. It has a ton of info.