6/8 Wacker frameback for a first?
Hi gents,
I had a full beard for over 10 years until a few months ago. I have to admit that one of the reasons I took the plunge and shaved off the beard was the idea of using a straight razor someday... and after a few months of shaving with what passes for a razor at the super market I've decided the day is close at hand.
I'd like your opinions on the 6/8 Wacker "GebrGeldmacher Frameback" - camatillo rosewood from shavingshop.com for a first razor.
I know the price is probably too high for a first shaver but something about this guy just struck a chord, so if it's a great blade that will hold an edge for a long time and doesn't have any newbie gotchas, I'm willing to pay.
What I've read told me about stainless steel and high carbon steel but I cannot tell from the website which this is, nor do I even know which is better for my first razor. I plan on sending it out to be honed the first few times, one thing at a time for me... so that's not such an issue.
Bottom line, is this a good first razor, money not being a major concern since I've already fallen for it? Is there a better one you suggest I look at? Any gotchas I should look out for with this razor? I haven't heard of framebacks before but it looks pretty classy to me. Is the wood a good choice for the handle?
PS: I'm also considering the TI I saw mentioned elsewhere:
http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...51/1203373.htm
It's hard for me to understand the differences between these razors (aside from the frameback), and which is better for a newbie, so your help is greatly appreciated.
Thanks for all your fine advice on the forums and I look forward to joining the ranks soon!
Tome
Follow up- which will go away?
Quick follow up: Which of these razors do you expect I wouldn't be able to buy at this price in a year or two? Are any of these limited or are they always for sale at some site?
Thanks!
What's done is done, the frameback in ebony is on its way
Thank you everyone for your advice. I woke up this morning and I knew what I had to do. The frameback in ebony is on its way. Thanks to everyone for sharing their experiences. It seems this could be a great razor, and perhaps there are nicer and I'm sure to find that out in the future. But I realized that cupid had struck, and if I didn't get the frameback I'd "always" wonder : ) I'm sure many TIs will be in my hands in the future.
Thank you again everyone! Now to find someone to hone it...
tome