Thread: Hi, my name's Mick and I'm clueless

That about covers it, really.

I've just inherited four straight (cut-throat) razors, one of which looks like it should be easy enough to make usable, the others less so, one definitely not so.
I found this forum while searching for info on a Bengall Razor (I have two though one needs some work) as well as a Magnetic Platypus (needs more work) and a Gotta (irreparable blade damage).

Hello Mick,

Welcome to SRP. You've come to the right place. Check out Member Services in the Classifieds. We have numerous members who do an awesome job of honing and restoring razors. How about posting some pictures of your razors?

If you are truly clueless, check out the wiki for tons of info on straight razor shaving.

Again, welcome to SRP,

Greg

Hello Mick, and welcome to SRP, we are glad to have you with us.
There is much to learn, but we have all the tools. Start my making yourself familiar with the wiki, where you will find basic info on all things straight razor related. Read Glen's beginner's tips, they are quick chapters on important aspects, each dealing with one particular theme. Third, check out these videos for newcomers to straight razor shaving, then go have a look in the video subsection, where you will find hands on info that is hard to beat.
If you want to take a crack at restoring your razors, you will find that also in the wiki, although I would recommend sending your family heirlooms to someone skilled as they are irreplaceable.
Feel free to ask any questions as they arise.
Best of luck

Pictures I can manage Click for full size.


Top to bottom they're in the order I listed them off in my first post. The one on the top/far right is the one I think I'd consider using, but not yet.

The top three should all be restorable. Send them off to one of the guys in the classifieds and they will do a great job restoring them. I recomend maximillion. He is truly a gentleman and does magnificent work. He makes some really beutifull scales. Also the one that looks like you could use it as is you cant. Im sure it needs honing. Send it off and get it honed before you try to use it. If you dohnt it will probably tear you up pretty good leaving a sour taste in your mouth about str8 shaving. Also invest in a quality but inexpensive strop. It is crucial to maintaining the edge on your razor. You will want to use it before each shave. Also here we all prefer to use qa brush and a good quality shoap or lathering shave cram. The canned goo just flat out doesnt do the job. A cheap brush can be had at your local walgreens for a few dollars. Not the best but it will do the job. They also carry a cheap soap witch isnt to bad. As you go you will want better supplies but these will get you started. enoy your shaving and take it slow. you will not regret making the switch.

Hey, Mike. You landed in the right place. Almost a year ago I started.

Your take on the condition of the blades seems about right. Middle two are more restorations. The top one seems ready for sharpening. 'Happy to volunteer sharpening on that one. The middle two need more love. PM me if you'd like to connect on that.

The counsel to dive into the 'first shave' and tutorials is very well aimed. The first critical skill you'll need is how to strop.

Glen's thread, which links the vids from afdavis is hard to beat.
http://straightrazorpalace.com/begin...ch-2011-a.html

It takes some practice, but very soon, shaving will no longer be an annoyance, but a pleasure. You'll also get the best shaves of your life.

Welcome and have fun while you learn.

I have no intention of using any of them "as is". The phrase "crazy, not stupid" comes to mind I've also been mangling my face for long enough (I'm 40 and started early) to know to NEVER touch that canned crap. Even my ugly mug is worth more than that. :lol:

I'll listen on the honing thing and get it properly done before I start. That top one should be the cheapest to get "shave ready", I think. The others can come later as I can manage it. I'll be watching antique stores etc for a strop as well. My grandfathers both had one I know, but I don't know where they ended up.

Mick,

Welcome to the SRP mate. Great to have another Aussie on board. onimaru55 is in Sydney and by all accounts does a great hone job for a cost. It might be worth sending him a message.

Again, welcome and enjoy the shave.

Stu

+1 for Onimaru55's work. 'Would give my left one to know 1/2 of what he's already forgotten. And a fine gentleman.

Welcome, Mick! Everything I would possibly suggest of where to look has already been stated.

With some love, you have should have some nice razors there! Use the broken blade as your tester to get your feet wet if you try to restore yourself. The blades don't look to be in that bad of shape to start with. Don't be afraid to give it a go, yourself. Priceless amounts of info around the forum.

Nothing about it is too difficult, but it would be nice to learn on something you don't care if you really ding up. Nothing sucks like a lesson of chipping the blade after hours of sanding.

Congrats! And, welcome!