Thread: 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?

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.

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.

Thanks for the info. Will check it all out!

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.

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.

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!