Hello From Austin

Hello

I'm Truman, been lurking for a while but just joined the forum today. I've had problems with bics and get really bad skin irritation. It always felt like I was pulling hair not shaving it. Electrics never seemed to work either.

About a month ago I decided to take an initial step to wet shaving. I just couldn't spring for a full Straight Edge. So I purchased the Parker SRW with 120 shark blades, Tabac soap and a Tweezerman brush. Thinking that i would upgrade to a true blade if I could get the hang of it or downgrade to a DE. I really enjoy it. I haven't had any skin irriation and actually enjoy the shaving process (even though it takes 3 times longer)

So yesterday I mentioned it to my grandpa because I remember him having a shaving brush and mug in his bathroom from when I was a kid. Well he told me he uses a DE but used to use his dad's straight edge. He then tells me that I can have that straight edge (still in its original box). He said it hasn't been used in 20 years.

I haven't had a chance to see it yet, (Lives in another state, going to see him in July) so I know nothing of condition or brand etc. Knowing my Grandpa I'm sure he did his best to keep it in good condition (I mean its still in its 90 year old cardboard box)

So I have a couple of questions:
1) is it ok to shave with a razor that is so old? (given that it is indeed in good condition)
2) Where would I get it professionally honed? Are there local places that do this or should i ship it somewhere?
3) What brand\type strop would you recommend


I was planning on asking for a Razor for Christmas but if it turns out to be a good razor I might just use my great grandpa's instead.

Thanks for having such an awesome website!

Truman

I will leave most of your questions to those more experienced, but as to whether it's ok to shave with...heck yes! That's part of the fun. Of the razors I own I think only one or two are newer than your grandpa's.

Given that it certainly will have sentimental value to you, I would recommend buying an additional razor to practice with...there are any number of things that one can do to damage a blade and it would be a shame to do that to a family member's tool. Once you get comfortable enough (you'll know when) then go ahead and use granddad's.

A good shaving razor can be had for remarkably cheap. It might even be a good idea to get one that is a similar size/grind/brand/model to your grandpa's once you get a chance to see it.

Just my two cents. Have fun!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jimbo7

there are any number of things that one can do to damage a blade

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Things like that scare the crap out of me, which is why I chose to do the cheap parker SRW with disposable blades. I really don't want to screw things up or waste money. I know in the long run a Straight will save money but not if i damage it. :) Which is why i'm on here asking questions.

I'm really excited to see my new Razor, I'm guessing on the age, but it has to be close to 90 if not more.

I didn't mean to scare you! Plus, if you've developed a proficiency handling your Parker you are in better shape that I was when I started. Put it this way, I learned from videos and this forum and I haven't damaged one at all. No worries!

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Jimbo7

I didn't mean to scare you! Plus, if you've developed a proficiency handling your Parker you are in better shape that I was when I started. Put it this way, I learned from videos and this forum and I haven't damaged one at all. No worries!

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I wouldn't say proficient I still keep a Styptic pencil by my razor. I just haven't used it as much the last few shaves. But I do feel like I understand grips and grains better. Still struggle with my nose, chin and ears. I wonder if shaving those off would help...

Oh you haven't gotten rid of those yet? Yes, that's definitely step 1. Clear the floor so you have room to dance!