Thread: New guy in AR.

Hello,
I am knew to this forum but not to loving a shave from a straight razor. I have loved getting a barber to shave me for many years. It takes mr back to a time I only wished I had lived. It has become so hard to find a barber who will shave you, and just the cost of refills has become nuts! So I told the wife, I'm getting a straight razor just never knew there was so much to it. Thanks for all the advise here I have been reading. I have found a razor here I like. Are there other things like good brushes & strops sold in the classifies too, thanks, Ackley.

Hi Ackley, and welcome to SRP!

Yes, there is often a good selection of all kinds of shaving gear including brushes and strops in the Classifieds. It's well worth keeping an eye on, and if you don't see what you're looking for, check back in a few days.

As you say, there's quite a bit to absorb before successfully sliding a super-sharp hunk of steel across your face, but not only is the destination worth it, the journey can be a lot of fun too. So find a comfy chair, sit back, and spend some time reading in the Wiki and forum.

In the Wiki, start here: Beginner's guide to straight razor shaving - Straight Razor Place Wiki

and here:

First straight razor shave - Straight Razor Place Wiki

And if you have questions along the way, don't hesitate to ask!

Thank Cangooer, will be looking for some things. Found a shaving mug the other day at an antique store, now need to get some soap, strop and aftershave. What soap would you recommend for a wet lather?

Originally Posted by Ackley

Thank Cangooer, will be looking for some things. Found a shaving mug the other day at an antique store, now need to get some soap, strop and aftershave. What soap would you recommend for a wet lather?

That's a tough one as there are so many choices! Also, I have no idea what might be locally available for you. Proraso is a reliable standby and it seems to be readily available in many places, as is Body Shop's Maca Root Cream. With the Maca Root, you might start out thinking what the heck people are talking about when it will kind of explode into lather.

Mitchell's Wool Fat is my favourite, but it takes some work to get a proper lather so it's probably not the best for starting out. Razorock is good too.

I have also had good luck with Mama Bear's soaps, but you'll have to go online for those.

Best bet is to do some reading here in the forums. And if you're not sure, give Straight Razor Designs a call. I have heard only good things about their service and I'm sure they would point you in the right direction.