Thread: A question on cost?

I would't start with one that high.. There are plenty out there that you can get for lower prices. You may not even like it... Unless, of course you have deep pockets.. Then fire away!

Guys, just a friendly reminder that valuations are not allowed at SRP. A razor is worth as much as you are willing to pay for it; there are simply too many variables involved to give an objective response.

Best regards,

Ryan82

If it were me, I'd start with a shave ready vintage razor from the classifieds - just to see how you go.
Let us know what you decide.

I can argue this both ways...one thing for certain in my mind, it is a great idea to start out with a good razor that is professionally honed and SHAVE READY.

Starting out with luxury equipment will not guarantee better results, but starting out with substandard equipment WILL guarantee poor results.

I started with a well honed and shave ready vintage clunker (100% business and 0% good looks) and within a week bought a Hart razor. Having used both in my first weeks, I would say there is merit to either one, and I have no regrets. If that razor calls to you, buy it...you will likely put in the effort to learn to use it properly since it is a considerable investment

Originally Posted by Wintchase

I would't start with one that high.. There are plenty out there that you can get for lower prices. You may not even like it... Unless, of course you have deep pockets.. Then fire away!

I agree more with this post but i can see other ways of thinking.

If you think that the price is to high it probably is for you. There are not as pretty but cheaper alternatives to start with.

Plastic scales are great for a first razor. {Or for a tenth!}

If you are at all interested in honing etc. you will make mistakes. Don't buy one that makes you uncomfortable in taking 10 years off of the life of the blade while you are learning.

Tim

I'll take the frugal approach, and counsel you to not buy a razor... not yet, anyway. What to do? Borrow one! Hell, borrow two, three, even four! My point is this: Borrowing a shave-ready straight razor will let you see if straight-razor shaving is really for you -- if it is, perhaps with a wedge, but not a full-hollow ground; perhaps with a round or French point, but not a spike; perhaps with a 5/8 or 6/8, but not with a 4/8 or a 9/8. I believe that once you've determined "yay" or "nay", you'll be better equipped to make a (potentially) large investment in a straight razor. But know this: It's not just the razor -- there's a brush, soap or cream, a strop, and perhaps aftershave or cologne. As Hy Goldenberg was fond of saying: "Two of anything is the start of a collection."

Smooth shaving!

I would point out to you that factory edges aren't routinely the best for shaving. There are vendors which will guarantee the edge is shave ready.......and some willing to hone it more than once for the initial purchase price. As far as cost you can get the same great shave from an Ebay save as you can from a custom or anything in between and as with a great deal your are going to discover on the straight razor journey there are many variables and your preferences will change as you travel the adventure.

100 different answers from 100 different people! You just have to find the answer that is right for you.

I'm with JB.

If there are members near you - willing to let you try their gear - perhaps a bit of tutorial - that would be the best possible intro. 3 guys have come over, tried blades, stones. 'Didn't cost them anything, and likely keeps them from making choices they would be unhappy with in the long term. If your travels bring you near Portland, OR - give me a hollar. Last wk, a member tried over $1,000 retail in just the wacker hand made blades. He seemed to like a Henckels Friodur best. Imagine how much you could save if you knew what your preferences were before you bought.

I have to say as a I'm New to straight razor shaving, I did buy a nice razor a Thiers Issard Stainless for the weight factor at AOS and another $150 for the pre-shave after shave and strop. It's the best investment I have ever made for my personal grooming. It is for the rest of my life. My skin is awesome every time i use it, no ingrown hairs anymore and it feels great. The best thing about using a straight razor is it enjoyable spending time learning something new. Just wait until you start watching all the videos on how too: Strop, honing figuring out your grain pattern and brushes too. Another great thing is this website and it's members, they just make sure all your questions get answered!!!!