Thread: Buy THIS Book Instead

Aaron has told me a little bit more about how unsatisfying his recent purchase of a book on how to shave with a 'cut throat' is and I have to agree that it sounds petty useless. I'm sure that a reasonable improvement can be made and am prepared to take up the torch on this. Considered topics would be;

Razors - a little on brands history, the differences in sizes and shapes, line vs. vintage
Preparation - including water, strops, brushes, soaps, creams, mugs, scuttles
Care - cleaning, sanitising, storage & handling of razors, strops & brushes
Shaving - angles, directions, touch, expectations, finishing
Honing - stones vs. pastes, some on types and brands of either, technique

Not necessarily in that order and certainly the how to and how NOT to in each case.

My questions to you are is these:
1. Have I left anything essential out of the afforementioned list that you think should be included in a book about straight razor shaving.
2. Given that Lynn is (allegedly) producing a video/CD ROM on straights, would a book even be useful in the 21st century? Is this a worthwhile enterprise.

X

I think that any resource for straight shaving that covers (at least) all the basics with good detail would be an excellent idea.

Being a relative n00b myself, I had some trouble finding anything really worthwhile. SRP is probably the best resource I've found - overflowing with useful and indespensible knowledge. However, there's not (at least in my eSeaching) one single source that really covers everything all at once and can be easily referenced in one place. The "How to and why" of classicshaving.com is the closest thing I found that meets the aforementioned description, but, putting together another resource that has the benifit of such an experienced community would be quite worthwhile IMO. If compiled such that it helps to assist those getting starting, I think would prove invaluable to those wanting to learn and attract some more attention to the world of str8's.

Considering that both Lynn and Bill are making CDs. I still think it's a good idea, nothing wrong with more resources. If you'd like, I can offer my assistance as well, personally I think a website would be an excellent medium.
Also, the one thing I feel is lacking, is a glossary. I have kind of been taking notes, since when I was totally fresh the forums, there were terms being flung around with meanings I had no idea what could be.

You've got it covered X. If you want to pass on the torch or make it a cooperative effort, you have my contact info. Some info on the manufacturing process would also be a good idea.

I think this is a great idea. Considering we are talking about straight razors, I think it would only be appropriate to have a book on the subject. I would much rather purchase a book over a CD were the choice presented. If you are writing up a book on collecting and care and are looking for a publisher, I would suggest Schiffer Publishing. Just be forewarned that they can be a real nightmare regarding pictures. If you need a contact within the company just let me know.

You'd get my money if you need any help let me know.

(make Lynn write the honing bit )

Xman

You definately have the talent as a writer to
do an outstanding job.


Terry

I don't want to be the wet blanket here but I think that if you intend on doing this as a charity thing its a great idea but if you intend selling more than a few hundred copies I think you are kidding yourself. I think we here are wrapt up in this thing but out there in the cold cruel world the population couldn't give a rat's posterior about straight razor shaving. Most think we are crazy anyway.

Oh, believe me I don't see this as a get rich quick scheme. I just wonder if it might be a useful and/or beneficial way to introduce more men to our quirky shaving habits.

X

Possibly, if you did it in an entertaining way with alot of tongue in cheek humor or maybe in a novel style it might work outside our fraternity.