Thread: New member form Yonkers

Just signed up a few days ago, after deciding to go back to the straight razor after about 30 years..My name is Dave, and I've been interested in finding out more about the "older" arts just in case we need to be more self sufficient in the future. Part of that is getting away from the disposable mindset our society has in general, so a straight razor seemed a good place to start! Anyway, I started with a shavette type razor, and got my first Dovo last Saturday, so far so good. I can shave multiple passes without getting cut, just trying to get my technique (shaving and stropping) down so it is smoother with less stubble. I got the razor from SRD, so it came shave ready, but I guess not newbie ready. Anyway, I have started shaving before I go to bed so I have more time to try out technique without being in a hurry to get to work, then a quick touch-up in the morning. We'll see how it goes.

Lots of great info on this site, I appreciate everyone taking time out to post all of this knowledge.

Thanks for saying hello and welcome to SRP

Hi Davemillard,

Welcome to SRP. I think learning straight shaving as a throwback to something older (and finer) is a laudable reason to do so. However, I think over time you'll find even more reasons to enjoy it. Firstly, your interest has led you to this place, SRP, which is a fine community of like-minded individuals who are more than willing to help you in your quest for that perfect shave. Not only that, but there's other sections of the site where members share other interests, too. So this is a great pool of people where you're likely to find a friend or two.

Secondly, you'll probably discover, over time, that the shave you get with your straight will be far superior to one you could get with a modern cartridge. Personally not all my shaves come out perfect. In fact, none have so far; but day by day I see an improvement and I think it's worth the effort. It's not the destination so much but the journey that I enjoy. This doesn't make me unique; far from it. I think most everyone here enjoys that journey, too.

Third, and this is the dangerous part, this could turn into a major hobby for you. There's all kinds of things to get interested in, from collecting straights and shaving gear to honing, etc. and it could get quite expensive if you're not careful. Learn from those members here who are more experienced in the areas you are interested in so that you can get the most for your time, money, and efforts.

I think you have found the best online community for straight shaving on the internet. What's really nice about that is members have meet-ups where they actually get together and help each other out in person. One day I hope to be able to go to one myself.

Welcome to SRP. Enjoy as I have.

-Mark

Mark, thanks for the comments - yes my feeling going through this forum is that there are a lot of people out there who are kindly offering great advice for everyone, old and new. and it is amazing reading some of the threads how much time and effort is put into them. Really a dedicated bunch of folks!
Unfortunately, I have already started acquiring things, different soaps, etc, but hey, variety is the spice of life! And my wife seems to be OK with it, which as all the male members know, is quite important ;-)

Welcome Dave! This is a great place to get the ball rolling again . All the members are helpful. Any information about wet shaving that you dont find by browsing thru the site you can find by just asking and someone will give you the info you need or send you in the right direction. Make sure you check out the posts in the beginners forum. Theres a ton of great info there for nubiees.
Theres a meet up coming on Nov. 5th for the NY, NJ members its in Fort lee which isn't to far from you. http://straightrazorpalace.com/get-t...n-nj-area.html Maybe I will see you there.
Good Luck & Good Shaving !

Hello, Dave, and welcome to Straight Razor Place. Now that you're returning to something you enjoyed so many years ago, you'll feel at home here. The straight razor is a world onto its own. We're looking forward to reading your thoughts.

Originally Posted by davemillard

I have already started acquiring things, different soaps, etc, but hey, variety is the spice of life! And my wife seems to be OK with it, which as all the male members know, is quite important ;-)

Yes, I'm lucky in that department, too. My wife has actually showed an interest in restoring razors and is excited to go hunting in local antique stores. She also gives me an assessment after every shave to let me know how well I did.

Won't be able to go to the get-together - we are doing something on the 5th up in Van Cortlandt Manor..hope all have a great time.