Like a lot of other guys, I went through an acquisition disorder stage when I started wet shaving. My collection grew to include an eclectic mix of DE and SE razors because I wanted to sample a good variety. I really never thought I'd get into straight razors because I didn't want to bother with all the stropping and honing and extra maintenance. And I had found products and combinations I really liked, so I figured I should spend time using up some stock.

But one day I picked up a Parker shavette, figuring it would be fun to try and it was only $18. But that led a few weeks ago to my purchase of a Thiers Issard and cheap strop--and it's happening to me again. I find myself researching Dovo vs. Bokker, stainless vs. carbon, vintage vs. new. The problem is, DE and SE razors are cheap in comparison to straights! I think I only have one DE that cost more than $35, and that (a Gillette Fatboy) was a gift from my wife! It's a lot harder to make a stealthy straight razor purchase. I'm going to have to learn new tricks to set aside a little cash each month and be content growing my straight collection slowly, I guess.