Hello from Connecticut

Hello everyone, originally from NJ, but I spent some time in the navy and now my wife is stationed here in CT. Started shaving with a DE Merkur about a 2 months ago and I feel like I have been on a quest for the perfect shave ever since. I purchased a vintage razor from a nice gentleman on the classifieds here(just came in today) and I have another on the way from straight razor designs, along with a strop.

My main concern right now is the level of care needed to maintain the condition of the razors. I don't have a problem with the work, I am just worried that my inexperience might cause me to harm the blades in a way I can't fix. I have some mineral oil, but its the drugstore kind and I don't know if thats good enough. When I get a chance in the next few days I am going to go look for some camellia oil and some kind of material to wipe the blades with.

In the meantime I will be trying to absorb as much information from this site as possible so my first shave with a straight razor doesn't destroy my face.

Looking forward to talking to you all,
Mike

Welcome to SRP

Ah the quest for the perfect shave.:) Such a fun journey.

The necessary care is not bad if you store the razors in a dry area. Avoid getting the pivot and scales wet, but if you do dry them thoroughly. Air drying is a good idea if you don't have curious hands running around. If you are shaving daily oiling the blade is not necessary. If you want to oil go ahead with the mineral oil it will work well, just make sure the blade is completely dry before you oil the blade.

Jonathan