Thread: New member from Illinois

Hi, all. I've been lurking and learning here on SRP. Thanks for all of the good info. I have been using DE for quite some time and am about ready to try straight. I prefer to get quality tools right away and am thinking of a Hart 6/8 polished round to start with and then the SRP Logo LE whenever my turn for production rolls around. That may give me enough time learning on the Hart before trying the smile of the SRP. I saw one comment on an SRP thread that the smile may be better for beginners. I'm guessing that is just on the face and not with the roll during honing and stropping. That's where my thinking is for now. I'll ponder it some more and may order after the weekend.

Tim

Welcome to SRP, Tim.
Sounds like you have done your homework, I'm sure it will be an exiting and rewarding journey.
Don't hesitate to ask when the questions come

Best of luck.

Welcome to SRP!
Remember that it's a journey, and let me know how you like the Hart if you go with it. They are on my list of some day when I have money razors.

The round point razors simply have one less thing for the new guy to worry about when he is starting. That is their main advantage. Personally, I prefer a square point. I know I can dull the point if needed. The Hart razors are a high quality razor but a bit demanding to hone for a new guy. For a first razor I would start with a razor from the SRP Classified Ads.

Just my $.02

I sold 2 5/8 size razors with barber notches...there new guy loved em

Welcome!
Where abouts in Illinois?

Originally Posted by randydance062449

The round point razors simply have one less thing for the new guy to worry about when he is starting.

Though I would probably want a square point once I become proficient, I was planning on a round point for my first for that reason.

The Hart razors are a high quality razor but a bit demanding to hone for a new guy.

From what I have read, it is honed with a single layer of tape. What is it about it that would make it difficult? Other than age and/or cost, what would a razor from SRP classifieds have different that would make it easier? I have some stones already (up to 8k) and am used to sharpening handtools for woodworking. Is this that much more difficult?

Thanks.

Tim

Originally Posted by OpTiCz

Where abouts in Illinois?

I'm currently in Des Plaines, IL, slightly NW of Chicago, just north of O'Hare airport.

Thanks everyone for all of the welcomes.

Tim

Originally Posted by TimButterfield

From what I have read, it is honed with a single layer of tape. What is it about it that would make it difficult? Other than age and/or cost, what would a razor from SRP classifieds have different that would make it easier? I have some stones already (up to 8k) and am used to sharpening handtools for woodworking. Is this that much more difficult?

Hi Tim,

Is it that much more difficult? Well, yes and no. Yes because it's a completely different way of thinking and doing when sharpening a razor. The pressure and width of bevel on tools is much greater and more manageable than a razor. The razor bevel is very narrow, very thin at the edge and delicate. Not to say a tool edge doesn't have some delicacy to it, but nothing like the tool your going to move across your face expecting it to cut the whiskers cleanly and comfortably. I guess really, in reality it is that much more difficult until you try it and realize that even though you're sharpening both, they're very different tools and require very different treatment. The hard part is transitioning the thought process to the difference. I sharpened fine art carving knives and thought I wouldn't have any problem sharpening a razor. Boy, was I surprised! Once you make the mental transition, you'll slap yourself on the forehead and say DUH!! Well, at least I did. The real difference is, very delicate, very precise strokes, very light pressure, and knowing when to move on and when to stop. Hope this makes some sense. Good Luck!!

Best Regards,

Howard

South Elgin here...