Quote Originally Posted by broshae View Post
. . . Basically, I am looking to buy a new set of good quality equipment but don't want to break the bank. I'm not interested in paying for designer stuff right now, just a good quality blade, strop, brush, etc. for a reasonable price. Also, I have no idea what size, width, or style of blade to start with. So suggestions please. Thanks in advance!
You said "new", so I assume that means a new razor, not a vintage razor. Suggestions for low-priced "starter" set:

1. Get a Dovo "Best Quality", 5/8" or 6/8", round point, from Straight Razor Designs. ["5/8 - 6/8, round point" is a good "first razor" choice, and may also be a "last razor" choice.]

2. Get some Proraso soap (or cream) and a shaving brush from Shopper's Drug Mart. Liberate a small bowl from the kitchen for making lather.

3. Get a "Poor Man's Strop Kit" from WhippedDog.com. That will give you a small but adequate leather strop, and a pasted strop for refreshing the edge. For more money, try StarShavingSupplies.com, RupRazor.com. Fendrihan has an Illinois 206 strop which is what I started with.

With that set, you'll have enough to shave for several months. You will probably want a pasted strop or barber hone eventually.

Charles /richmond, BC