Thread: New guy saying Hello

Hey everyone, I really wanna switch from my fusion to a straight razor, I will mainly use it to shave off the top and bottom of my beard because I am growing out my beard. I just want some advice on which razor I should buy first? I have 300 dollars first and I'd like something really nice looking! Any suggestions guys? Thanks!

Hello and welcome!

You'll need a strop at the same time you buy your razor, so count that in your budget. That said, you should be able to get a nice outfit for your budget. Be sure to buy from someone who will send you a truly shave-ready razor, like The Superior Shave or Straight Razor Designs. Don't buy the nicest strop you see, because there's a good chance you'll nick it up as you learn to use it.

Do lots of reading in the wiki, especially anything aimed at beginners. There's lots of careful, thoughtful writing that's been done just for you. We all have favorite razors or styles of razors, and the longer we've used them, the more that we've tried, the better our reasons for favoring them. It's ultimately a personal decision, based on our hair types, hand sizes, facial shapes, and aesthetics.

If you have thick or dense hairs, you may want a heavier grind. If you have hollows you'll need to shave into, a smiling blade is really nice. Since you're just starting out, I'd recommend a round point, even though you might ultimately prefer a spike for trimming edges. Spikes are good for that, but they're also really good for slicing the skin of the inattentive. My best shaver has a spike point, which is why I hardly ever use it... I'm not used to it, so it cuts me a lot.

So... lots of variables. Read around a bit, learn why they matter, and that will focus your search for you.

Best wishes

Wow! Thanks for the info roughkype! And I looked at the dovo razor that you recommended, yochatman, I am really considering purchasing that one! Once again thanks guys!

How, Chief, and welcome to SRP! You certainly came to the right place -- all the senior members here are very knowledgeable about everything shave-related. roughkype is one of those and won't steer you wrong!
You will nick/slash/cut/maim/dismember/amputate/decapitate your first strop. DON'T PANIC. It happens to everyone. I nicked mine just this past week, and I've been using off and on for 16 years.
You will also want to invest in a good quality brush as well. Anyway, glad to have you aboard, and I'll see you in the trenches!

The tot in chief tot means rock god salute like your smiley! Haha

Chief:
Okay, I didn't know that. I was thinking more along the lines of the German "dead". Anyway, I'm glad my salute was appropriate for you!