Hola

[Brian2]

Hello,

I recently travelled to Bolivia and after a month and a half wanted to get a haircut so I didn't look like a hippie freaked when I got home. Hate that look on the plane...

So, got a haircut in La Paz, 3800 meters high, by a gay dude singing tears for fears (btw, he didn't speak any english, so just imagine.... ) and he used a straight razor on my sideburns. It was freaking amazing, although I question the hygiene - was it sterilized?

I fell in love with the razor, and have found this whole underground movement about shaving. Strange! I've read with interest some of the posts...

I bought a Hart Steel Razor - it's gorgeous! The shaving is coming along, only my second time, no nicks, lots of prep and stropping technique. First shave I was sweating, today I was a lot calmer and it went much better.

Just wanted to say Hello.

Next purchase, a hone, but I'm not in a real rush yet, LOL.

[Brighty83]

The shaving is coming along, only my second time, no nicks, lots of prep and stropping technique. First shave I was sweating, today I was a lot calmer and it went much better.

Congratulations on joining the club! Take you time and don't rush!

Hart Steel Razor have some nice looking razors, what one did you end up getting?

I Wouldn't worry about a hone until you have a few razors to practice on or you might be without a razor for a while as it gets professionally re-honed!

Have fun!

[Brian2]

I got a Hart Steel 7/8. It's really a gorgeous razor.

I'll do my best with a hone - I'm fairly cautious when it comes to new things, and will research it well, and watch lots of videos before attempting it. If it needs to be sent away, then so be it. Just getting my head around the shaving part and tomorrow will be more working on prep work.

It sure was nerve-wracking my first shave, but like I say, today was a lot more comfortable.

[Brighty83]

That's a big razor to start out with, the recommended is a 5/8. Because of the size you might have some troubles under the nose but as long as you take your time you should be ok with it.

My preference is a 6/8, others prefer a 4/8 etc but each to their own, you will work out what works best for you.

[Brian2]

Yeah, I probably should have bought a smaller one. It is huge, but cest' la vie. It works fine so far. Obviously, like most newbies here, I have a long ways to go with experience. I watch those Vids of people shaving effortlessly and am green with envy!

[deighaingeal]

Welcome
I agree, that's a large razor to start with.
Don't worry too much about the sterility of a straight razor. A good clean surface really has little to no place for a microbe to hide.