Thread: Looking to get started with a DE

I just picked up a Gillette Super Speed today, cant seem to find much about this one because it it made in England, has no date code, and I guess they used different model names. I cleaned it all up, stopped by CVS picked up a pack of house brand blades just so I had something to try. I have never shaved with a DE or anything other than these ridiculous expensive cartridges. So far I have found a decent shave cream for my current set up, Jack Black Beard Lube, and their After Shave Balm. I have gone through nearly 40 locally available products in various combinations to try to get rid of razor burn and bumps.

What do I need? Info, first. Can someone point me in the direction of good videos or how-to's?

Blades. I know it is very personal, but is there a general range of blades that work well in this razor?

Soap/Cream. I have oily skin to begin with, and I work in construction so I sweat a lot. I have very sensitive skin as well, so much so that even electric razors give me horrible razor burn. What would be a good starting point for every other day use? I have thick growth with coarse texture. Budget is a concern.

The razor itself. Is this Super Speed a good one to start with? I only paid $5.00 for it at the flea market, so no big deal. But if you have a recommendation, again for the budget mineded, please do offer it.


Lastly, I don't know what I dont know. Anything else I should be taking into consideration, equipment needed, things to look for?


Thanx in advance for any info you are able to provide.

-Xander





ETA: Found some more info about this razor...

"#18: English Super Speed; this uncommon razor is modeled after the American 1954-1957 Super Speed. Brit. Pat. 694093 and II marks, 57 grams."

"While not true Rockets by my definition I include these to clear up confusion in identification. These for all outward appearances look to be American Super Speeds, but have the signature pointed Rocket side plates. These "English Super Speeds" are less common than comparable Rockets and all of mine have "teeth" under head that are slightly different than the Rockets pictured above [in the post]."

CITED
The Shave Den Forums. Written by MTgrayling, December 2008.
Gillette Rocket, the refined DE.