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First Razor
Im looking to buy my first straight razor. I would appreciate any info I could get. Not looking to break the bank, but dont mind paying for a quality razor nice looking razor to last. I have a pretty tough beard and have read differing opinions on hollow or wedge blades. Also, is there any advantage to the width of the blade, i.e. 4/8, 5/8, 6/8, or 7/8?
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Welcome to SRP!
Generally speaking a 5/8 or 6/8 is recommended to start with, half hollow, round point.
Frequently Asked Questions - Straight Razor Place Wiki
There's a lot of great information in the wiki if you haven't taken a look yet.
Straight Razor Place Wiki:Books/Beginners Guide - Straight Razor Place Wiki
Here's some advice as to which brands to purchase:
Beginner's guide to straight razor shaving - Straight Razor Place Wiki
Just make sure the blade is shave ready.
Frequently Asked Questions - Straight Razor Place Wiki
At minimum you'll also need a strop.
Some instructions on making your own if you're into that kind of thing.
Making a (very) home-made strop - Straight Razor Place Wiki
The Filly is a good choice since it is inexpensive and you'll probably cut your first strop up a bit practicing.
RupRazor - Strops
Good luck with your first purchase and let us know how your first shave goes. :)
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I'd suggest taking a look at the classifieds. You should be able to pick up a great, shave ready razor for under $50.
Size, grind, point style and all that are really personal preference, so you'll really have to figure all that out through time and experience.
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Thanks for the info. Will check it all out!
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I'm a newbie and after a fair amount of research I went with a TI Le Grelot 1/4 grind with plastic scales. I love it. Smooth easy shaver. Check it out here...
http://straightrazorpalace.com/razor...-4-hollow.html
I got the white scales that sort of look like bone. I like the plastic as I dunk the whole thing in the sink sometimes.
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I certainly agree with KeenEdge's round point advice. If I was doing it again, I would purchase round point razors exclusively. Personal taste. But, for newbie's it certainly reduces the variables.
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I would definatly look at the classified section. Lots of good deals there. I prefer a 6/8 over the 5/8. I found with a little bigger razor (6/8) it was easier for me to shave with. If you have a tough beard the extra weight may help you.
Good luck!
:)