After reading many reviews, "how to"/ beginner guides, and forums I just ordered my first safety razor and blade assortment. Actually it was info from Christian and others here that ultimately helped make my decision on which razor or type of razor to start out with . Christian's comment to me about "HD" or heavyweight models made sense so I ended up with a Merkur 33C (instead of my original thought of the Merkur 38C Barber Pole) and assortment of Wilkinson Sword, Gillette Silver Blue and Derby blades to start. I received a free 10pack of Astra blades with a previous brush and shave cream order so I have a good variety of blades to start with. Nothing fancy but it seems the 33C lightweight compared to the HD models and standard Merkur head angle seem to make it a favorite newb or beginner model, at least according to countless reviews and sites.

Thanks to all for suggestions and info offered.

Natty