Thread: Are these any good?

Originally Posted by robellison01

My personal experience has been that those shavettes are harder to use than a real straight. I can grab any straight in my collection, regardless of grind, size, or shape, and get a great shave with no blood loss. I use a shavette, and I am lucky not to cut myself. I can't say I've put a whole lot of effort into shaving with them, a handful of times was enough for me really.

In the end though, it's only money. A good razor can outlast it's owner, and they hold their value well if you decide it isn't for you.

I shredded my face when I initially tried to use the shavette, but things eventually got better. I switched from a Dovo to a Parker and that eliminated most of the drama. When I solved the Parker I tried the Dovo and was able to use it. I have a Feather now, which is a quality instrument, but you have to stay in practice to use any razor that uses a machine blade successfully.

Despite my struggles with shavettes, I see too many people taking a bath who bought the true straight bundles and are trying to unload them because the learning curve was too tough for them. I was determined despite needing two years to master the beast. So if you're curious about straights, I'd go to razorbladesandmore.com and try the Parker shavette for $20. An alternate suggestion is to get the Whipped Dog package for a little more. If you are a "crash test dummy" like I was, go ahead and start out with a new outfit because you will eventually be rewarded.

The Feather str8 with ProGuard blades is an excellent was to start.
The razor to choose in the beginning really doesn't have to do with money.
You can buy a 300$ new razor from an established vender or a 100yr old razor for 300$ and neither would probably shave ready.
Go with the Featherstr8 and ProGuard or make sure you buy a Shave Ready new or old for a member on this site.