OK... I know there are a lot of threads about first razors, but I'd like to toss out my specifics and see what people recommend.
I've shaved off and on with a straight razor for a while. Always had to touch up with with cartridge, and have sort of given up due to time but will probably go back at some point. In the meantime, I'd like to try a DE and would like to make the best purchase I can for a first, and possibly only DE. So here are the basics:
1. Have great brush and soap, and know how to lather.
2. Have never shaved with a DE, but think that since I have used straights and know the importance of a light touch and stretching...and patience, I might be OK with a more aggressive razor. Maybe not.
3. Brown hair and dark complexion. Beard is about average; maybe slightly more coarse than average. Have to shave every day to look professional. After a weekend of not shaving I have a pretty good beard going, and you can grab and pull whiskers on my entire face, not just in spots. When straight shaving, a scything cut gave the best results (and the most heart palpitations!).
4. Not afraid of an adjustable, but not sure if that's a good idea or not.
5. Price is not a big factor, but I'm not looking to be stupid either. Let's say around $100, and anything beyond that would have to be because it added real value, not just bling. But if it does add something, I'm OK going above that. Big believer in buy once, cry once.
So, what say you? Open comb or closed? Adjustable or fixed? Slant or straight?
I know that a razor is a personal thing and I may have to do some trial and error, but the advantage of this forum is learning from others and accelerating the learning curve. So, given the facts above what would be your recommendation?
--David