Thread: Suggestions for my first SR?

I presume you've already read the shopping list in the beginners guide, so here is my personal take on the situation.

1. One shave ready new or NOS razor. I would either go for a Dovo "Best Quality" 6/8 half hollow from SRD, or a http://straightrazorpalace.com/razor...003-5-8-a.html. Get something in the USD 50 department from the classifieds that looks nice and meets the beginner criteria laid out in the FAQ.
2. Get high quality cream and aftershave. Castle Forbes will cost you, but it is a good investment, and if you have the money, it should be your safest bet. Personally, I would go for "Lime", or http://straightrazorpalace.com/shavi...ing-cream.html.
3. As for strops, I would go for an SRD strop, no questions asked. Best value for money in the market, if you ask me. I have, and like, both the Premium I and IV. With your budget, the P IV extra long would be an option. It should make stropping easier (less flips you need to do).
4. This one might stretch your budget already, but http://straightrazorpalace.com/brush...ilver-tip.html is a killer brush. The fun thing about the Thäter brushes is that they will work with both soaps and creams, yet still be soft on the skin. Lovely stuff.

So there. Personal, high priced, and probably not exactly what you're looking for - because it is all very personal, our hobby is

Happy shopping,
Robin

Like many others, my first straight was the Dovo 5/8 "Best Quality." It is a fine razor, but I soon found myself wishing I'd spent just a little more and gotten something a little more interesting, even just a "Dovo-Special." I know to a lot of people it probably doesn't make a difference, I just found the "Best Quality" to be a bit boring. Also +1 on finding a vintage razor in the classifieds, I've seen pleanty of nice razors coming up that cost less than either of the new Dovos.

Originally Posted by Mrstickball

Okay, here is a little bit of info on me:

I took up learning to use disposable straight razors at the first part of this year. I like it far more than using nasty multi-blades. However, my disposable straight razor isn't doing a good enough of a job for me. The pieces that are supposed to catch the disposable blade doesn't keep it level anymore, and the blade no longer will lie perfectly flat in the razor.

So I am in need of a straight razor. I've been interested in one for awhile (ever since I started using straight razors for shaving), but I think I can now commit the money.

My budget is up to $300 for everything, including the strop. I am also willing to go the high-end feather disposable route if its suggested (is it?).

Primarily, I was looking at Hart Steel razors, but I am unsure if they are good, or if there is a better razor for the same price. Preferably, the razor would cost under $250 by itself, so I can get a decent strop, mug, and other needed items.


Finally, a random question which is more about shaving than the razor itself: Is there a large difference in technique for a traditional bladed razor vs. a disposable?

Thanks!

I love the DOVO Bismark....

My suggestion is that you find a razor that makes you smile when you look at it. Any of the razors coming out of Germany or France have the potential to be a great shaver since they are all fine quality.