Hi there from Mold, North Wales

Well here goes,

I get very little enjoyment shaving at the moment using a 5 blade cartridge razor and tinned foam, no wonder, I hear you cry, so im going to have a go with a straight edged razor.

As usual, I want to go and jump in at the deep end, buy everything that's possible from the internet only to find out that I've bought all the wrong equipment and have no idea how to use it. No!!!! not this time. With the possibilities of chopping off my ear, or worse, I'm going to do some research.:shrug:

I quite like the idea of using a "No sharpen" straight edged razor, something like the Feather Artist club non-folding, or folding razor but at the moment havent done enough research.

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated as I continue to do my homework.

All the best for the New Year,

Carl.........

Hello Carl and welcome!

You came to the right place for information - lots here to read and learn. I'll address one part of your query and I'm sure others will chime in as well.

I have both traditional straights and a Feather Artist folding (along with a bunch of DE's). I bought the Feather because I'm a cyclist and do a fair number of self contained trips so carrying the wherewithal to maintain a straight (strop) was out of the question and yet I like the style of shaving with a straight. The Feather works very well for this purpose. The principle difference that I find is that when you use a new blade in the Feather it's wicked sharp. After a few shaves it settles in nicely but even if you're used to shaving with a straight caution is called for on that first shave with a new blade. Other than that, I love it and have gotten great shaves with it. I'm pretty early on in my own journey with straights though so I've only shaved with it a couple of times but that's my opinion so far.

The other things that you'll need are something to make lather with (soaps or creams) and a good brush and you're all set.

Hope this helps and wish you a Happy New Year shaving!

Welcome!

There's a _lot_ of information in the Wiki ("Library") for beginners. It will tell you what you need to know. Keep reading . . . and come back with questions.

. Charles