Thread: Best bang for the buck?

What are opinions regarding the best bang for the buck razor for a complete beginner? $200.00 budget.

Ralf Aust .

Best bang for the buck us a vintage from the classifieds already shave ready to make sure you will take the time to learn before investing too much money. That said if your looking for new might I suggest Ralph Aust from the maker and request shave ready. They are a fine razor without much flaws and good steel. Or go to SRD if you wish to do business with them, but I always s buy it from the makers when possible. There are many restorers here that can help you too. The B/S/T is a great resource for you to try, look to check out join dates and post counts to assure yourself a decent chance at getting the right member. Tc

Do you presently wet shave with a safety razor? If not there are are other options for coming up to speed.
The experience can make a difference.

~Richard

I like TC's answer better. I only was thinking of new razors.

8 years into wet shaving. Got tired of paying for the latest cartridge from Gillette. Current favorite is Merkur slant.

Originally Posted by sachem58

8 years into wet shaving. Got tired of paying for the latest cartridge from Gillette. Current favorite is Merkur slant.

Then the Ralf Aust would be my choice over a blade from one of our good members in Buy and Sell. 9/16ths to 13/16ths is an average size blade for the beginner. Smaller can give bad cutting angle problems and larger can be a bit overwhelming.
Do not strop a new blade in your possession, stropping by the unwary can destroy an edge.
The Library has a great deal of information about beginning straight razor shaving.
Enjoy your new path!
~Richard

For me, I would go for a vintage Revisor.

@sachem58.. I have a Ralf Aust 6/8 Spanish Point that I just don't use.. Been planning on putting it on B/S/T.... It has the basic black scales, bought at Maggards about 6-7 months ago, used under 10 times and shave ready.. PM me if interested or use this thread.. thanks

Is this only for a razor or also a strop?
Either way, that's a very solid budget and you should have no problem buying both quality items within budget.

(Shave ready vintage quality budget razor plus a good strop that you won't mind cutting up a bit are good choices)

8 years into wet shaving? Nice, I assume you have everything else on hand, solid choice on making the jump!

Good suggestions so far

One thing that everybody is highlighting and is a must is a truly shave ready razor, otherwise nothing fun will happen.