Dovo Razor advice - Help!!!

Hi,

I'm new to the world of Straight Razors but have done a lot of research and am very interested in getting started. So far I have heard that the DOVO razors are reliable and a good choice for beginers to experienced shavers. I have worked out my budget and found four different options but not ever having used one I am stuck and need some help from your experience. They are:

The Dovo "Bismarck"
http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...940/186369.htm

The Dovo "Black Star"
http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...940/190290.htm

The Dovo Classic "Special" 5/8 or 6/8
http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...940/190304.htm

And the Dovo "Best Quality" 5/8 or 6/8
http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...940/219368.htm

Does anyone have any suggestions? Is there a noticable difference in the quality and edge of the more expensive ones or are they just more ornate? Or is there another completely different one that could be better?

Many thanks, Dylan

My choice would be the Bismarck. I have 4 DOVO's and other than my DOVO Micarta (stainless steel), the Bismarck gives me the best shave.

I'd say you also consider getting stainless steel DOVO, I find it is the best choice from DOVO...


Nenad

None of these razors will come "shave ready" - which ever you choose. Most people recommend that you get your razor honed by a "Honemeister". Jim at Vintage blades has a special on going for any SRP members. He not only discounts the Dovo "Best Quality, 5/8 or 6/8, but it includes honing by Lynn Abrams at no charge. Several of the newbees have taken advantage of this offer:

http://vintagebladesllc.com/vshop/xc...cat=132&page=1

Steve

I would see if you could get the Bismark honed by Lynn. That in my opinion would be my choice.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by zepplin

... Several of the newbees have taken advantage of this offer:

http://vintagebladesllc.com/vshop/xc...cat=132&page=1

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I was one. Great razor, very sharp, terrific deal.... A great way to start. Tony Millar does shave ready starters as well as complete setups.

Ken

Quote:

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Originally Posted by RichZ

I would see if you could get the Bismark honed by Lynn. That in my opinion would be my choice.

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+1 But I may be somewhat prejudiced, as that was my precise move:y

What´s the deal with the Bismarck?????
It´s almost half of what it costs over here in Germany?????
Those things are supposed to be produced here and I wonder why they are sold cheaper in the USA?

The Bismarck would defenitly be my first choice in that row!

I can't see how you could go wrong with the Bismark if you have the flash but I can only vouch for one of those razors and that is the Dovo "Best Quality" 5/8.

I picked it up from a set from A well shaved Gentleman and it came truly shave ready.

You can get an intro set strop, and Best Quality shave ready Dovo razor for just a blink more than the Biz.

Whichever you get I concur with the recommendation that a master set you up for a benchmark as to what is shave ready.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Scarface Germany

What´s the deal with the Bismarck?????
It´s almost half of what it costs over here in Germany?????
Those things are supposed to be produced here and I wonder why they are sold cheaper in the USA?

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Don't ask.. the same happens for Italian goods... :shrug:
I bought my rayban in USA and they're made no more than 80 km from where I live, payed half the price...
As far as razors is concerned... I bought mine from classicshaving, far cheaper than Italy or Germany...

Quote:

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Originally Posted by dzacca

Don't ask.. the same happens for Italian goods... :shrug:
I bought my rayban in USA and they're made no more than 80 km from where I live, payed half the price...
As far as razors is concerned... I bought mine from classicshaving, far cheaper than Italy or Germany...

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I would say that it is a combination of bulk purchasing and no VAT. :hmmm:

Bismarck all the way.

I think all of the razors would hold a good edge. The Bismarck just has a very comfortable design...it feels great in your hands. I own a Bismarck, and I plan on getting another.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Scarface Germany

What´s the deal with the Bismarck?????
It´s almost half of what it costs over here in Germany?????
Those things are supposed to be produced here and I wonder why they are sold cheaper in the USA?

The Bismarck would defenitly be my first choice in that row!

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Another thing: the Euro has gone up in value. Suppose Classicshaving bought them in the time the dollar was more expensive.

not trying to hijack this thread, just leverage it thinking about my future - would you recommend the bismarck over the tortoise SS special?