Hi Guys,
Been trolling around here for the last year or so. I'm a cook, been into sharpening knives for few years. Finally took the plunge about 4months ago with DE shaving, it really didn't go that well. I really enjoyed the ritual of things: badger brush, making lather (though not great at it), not buying disposable crap, trying something new, etc. I didn't/don't enjoy the horrible razor burn i get. I was in the process of narrowing down my problems, there were so many changing variables. Then i got my first straight! I had thought that DE shaving would prepare me for straights...i guess it helped with lathering but thats about it.
Well my straight came on my birthday in January and i started then instead of waiting until i had mastered DE shaving. I have absolutely loved it. I somehow am alittle more adept at straights than DE's. It was intimidating I have to admit. I was honestly scared. But after 3 or so very shoty shaves, i became able to shave my whole face. That was about 6 weeks ago, and i am very happy to still be at it. I have good days and bad, but so far always finish with the straight. I know i have so much to learn, but dont mind the journey. I have became obsessed, just like i did with cutlery..."ohhhh Japanese steel, How I", you get the idea. I was already a small fortune into knives, and stones, since i had the stones it seemed like straight razor sharpening would be an easy switch. Yes, i now know it isn't easy. Im now at a point where i need to work on the Dovo 6/8 full hollow, but its my only straight and the idea of DE shaving again makes me wanna scream. I have Chosera 400 (i know doesn't help here),1k,3k,5k and Norton 200,1k,4k,8k stones and a Rika 5k. I do not have any compounds for strops. Seems like that may be my first purchase, instead of a 10k+ stone? Also my razor was honed by Lynn via SRD, I have a SRD strop. So i am now at a point where i need to get another razor before messing this one up too much while learning. I have a very thick coarse beard, and of course sensitive skin. I am thinking of ordering a Hart for the thicker grind. Any thoughts? I dont have too much loot, but always seem to find ways to justify the obsessions. Im just trying to be a little more thoughtful about purchases since I had told SWMBO this would save us money!
Well I had just intended on saying hello, but managed to ask for advice anyway. I have done so much reading on here that I know how helpful all of you are and look forward to any advice you guys have. I was hoping to hear from others in East Tennessee that are interested in straights, everyone i know thinks i am nuts..even most the knife guys (go figure). If anyone on here does live in the Knoxville area; even though I dont drink much (have enough bad habits) I do work at a cool old brewery, with lots of good food and beer if anyone want to visit sometime for a chat!