New member introduction

Lordkappa · 10-07-2008, 07:27 AM

Hi!

I'm 22 and looking to change to straight razor shaving (obviously, since I'm here). I've always hated electric shavers and stuck with the latest Gillette toys. I recently got fed up with those, and the way they yank at each hair as you drag it across your face and nick in even the most unlikely places. Shaving for me has become something I avoid for as long as possible, until the scruffy figure in the mirror compels me to reach for the mach3 again. No longer.

I love to learn those 'lost' skills that not every modern person has, such as being able to drive a stick shift or use a manual film-SLR (not to mention how many people I know who can't tie a necktie). This style of shaving really appeals to my personality. I've been lurking for a while, reading, learning and reading some more. I'm very excited about joining this community of experienced, helpful people.

In my search for my first razor I have read that 5/8 is a good size to start with but I was wondering whether the difference between 4/8 5/8 and 6/8 was really that noticeable. There's really no point of reference in the photos I see online, so it's hard for me to tell how much difference it makes. I know much of this decision comes from personal preference, but if anyone out there has a recommendation for a starting size (maybe based on ease of learning) I would very much appreciate any input anyone may have in choosing my first blade.

Thanks!

gugi · 10-07-2008, 08:27 AM

welcome to srp

i perceive a difference in the way the razor handles. i'd say go for 5/8 or 6/8 and 4/8 only if it's an exceptional one. my preferred size is 6/8 but my favorite razors fall in all sizes between 4/8 and 8/8

Oh, and I still find it a bit odd driving automatic, but i like the convenience of point&shoot digital (but the quality of film is still unbeatable for me).

Ockham · 10-07-2008, 08:35 AM

Welcome Lordkappa

I agree completely with gugi here: go for a 5/8 or a 6/8 (my first two straights were a 6/8 - 1/4 grind - and a 5/8 - full hollow ground -); those are excellent sizes to start with. Later on, if you like straight shaving, you will try other sizes and grinds (btw beware of the RAD) and probably increase your numbers of razors.

One thing to remember: ENJOY!

gssixgun · 10-07-2008, 03:17 PM

Welcome to SRP....
I had to smile at some of your observations of skills being lost, the not being able to knot a tie struck a cord with me... Since I move from Colo to Idaho I have tied more than my share for people .....

Anyway back on track, I would recommend the 6/8 as a target size for a first razor for a few reasons..
It is pretty much the middle size so you can easily decide to go bigger or smaller after you develop a taste for it...
The 6/8 is easy to strop, which is the first real skill you have to learn, sometimes the smaller razors are easier to roll the edge on, and the larger razors are just a lot to handle....
When your ready, the 6/8 is good on the hones for the same reasons as on the strops...
Anyway those are my thoughts on the subject, but more importantly enjoy your shaves again

Lordkappa · 10-08-2008, 01:57 AM

Thanks for the great information guys! After taking time to consider all the options, I Think I've settled on a 5/8 Timor blue steel by Giesen & Forsthoff from classic-shaving.com as my starter razor. I've heard that Classic-Shaving.com sells only quality blades, but does anyone know whether this would be of sufficient quality to start with or would spending a little more be beneficial? (Knowing full-well I will likely want more once I have one :P, and maybe later spend the money on better once I have the skill to fully appreciate it.)

DOVO Straight Razors

Thanks!

Quote:

gssixgun: I had to smile at some of your observations of skills being lost, the not being able to knot a tie struck a cord with me... Since I move from Colo to Idaho I have tied more than my share for people .....

It's horrifying really. I thought it was something every guy learned... "You're a man, You will learn to tie a necktie." Nothing is more embarrassing than having to ask your girlfriend to tie it for you.

netsurfr · 10-12-2008, 01:49 AM

The difference between a 5/8 and 6/8 in a full hollow is not terribly significant although I must admit that I prefer the 6/8 size. IMHO the real significance comes from the grind. Razors come in sizes from a wedge to a full hollow. My personal preference for the grind is a 1/4 hollow grind.

Oh, I almost forgot! Welcome to SRP! And, enjoy the journey that is straight shaving.

onimaru55 · 10-12-2008, 04:19 AM

Greetings & Welcome to SRP.
Sounds like you're off to a good start as far as size & quality goes and yep ... you will want more.

Lordkappa · 10-12-2008, 04:30 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by onimaru55

Greetings & Welcome to SRP.
Sounds like you're off to a good start as far as size & quality goes and yep ... you will want more.

Thanks All for your tips, support and welcomes! Especially since these are questions I'm sure are asked every day around here. I appreciate the time it took you all to respond to them.

Placed my order at C.S. Can't wait!

I fear needles, yet somehow I'm excited that I likely just committed a portion of my blood to my new 'hobby'.