Hello from Tucson, AZ

Greetings from near Tucson, AZ!

I'm a computer tech and just recently did some trade work for a hair stylist / barber near my house. She got me a shaving kit and a straight razor (the injector style with replaceable blades). I've had a lot of fun so far nicking my face! hehe.

I think that I will stick with only straight razors, as I got sick of my electric and I don't like having to pay huge sums of money for those other kind of razors.

The next step I need to take is to buy an actual straight razor, and a honing stone and strop. I was hoping that maybe some local folks would be able to point me in the right direction; I have been sharpening knives by hand since I was a boy scout, so I am familiar with using a stone to sharpen blades but I am sure that honing a straight razor is different. Just looking for some guidance I suppose.

Good to meet you all, and I hope to have some advice soon.
Thanks!

ranger1911

Welcome to SRP from a fellow Tucsonan. All you need to know to get started is here on the home page with links for beginners. Unfortunately, there is not much of a market here in Tucson in the way of straight razors. There are a few antique stores that might have some, but until you know what you're looking for I would stay away from them. On the east side of town, on the northwest corner of Sabino Canyon and Tanque Verde, there is a place called Crescent News and Tobacco. They sell new razors, mainly Dovo, but they're pricey and are not professionally honed. Best advice for when you're ready to buy a straight razor is to check out the classifieds or the vendors here. That way you know you are buying a shave ready razor and you won't break the bank getting the basic gear you'll need.

Thanks for the reply Rearden. I'll probably wait until I am better at shaving with the current razor I have, before I buy another. My girlfirend wants to check out some antique stores here in town so I will be keeping my eyes open for razors / stones / strops, if they are the right price. Hopefully I will find a bargain =)

How many folks do we have here in Tucson?

Hello, ranger1911, and welcome to Straight Razor Place. My good friend ReardenSteel's suggestions are on spot. Stay away from eBay or antique stores until you know your way around the straight razor world. Vendors listed at SRP are reliable, and many offer starter kits. Also you'll find quality razors and good deals in the SRP Classified.

Your basic needs are: shave-ready razor, strop, brush, soap (or cream), and styptic pencil. Since honing is an art onto itself and it takes time to master it, I suggest you concentrate on honing your skill with the straight razor, and with making proper lather, before you tackle honing.

Good luck. Don't forget to peruse the Wiki for a wealth of information on straight razor shaving. Watch as many videos as you can. Finally, ask questions. This place is packed with straight razor experts. Stay well.

Welcome to SRP. To find out who is in your area http://straightrazorpalace.com/vbgooglemapme.php