Guys, after years of paying big bucks for the best of the best disposables with so many blades, I have told my wife that I would like to just go simple. I have no idea where to start or what to try. I have a heavy fast growing beard and try to shave one a day. Do any of you experts have any personal favorites that you can recommend to a newbie. I have no problem going vintage, truly would rather go that way. I feel that the old stuff I so much better than the new. I have been looking on evilbay for suggestions and am more confused than ever. Thanks for your time, Chuck
chuck, From one newbie to another. Get a starter kit (several are often in the classifieds in all the forums) and start there. I am working technique while I learn about blades, shavers, soaps, and after shaves and ,oh yeah, str8s while perusing the forums. There is a plethora of splendidly helpful people here with a cornucopia of information. The amount of data is immense! Sometimes like trying to drink out of a fire hose! Relax, take your time and enjoy the journey! You will have fun here! I guarantee it!
Other than soap from Italy, sorry cant remember the name but, Target used to carry it, and a brush, everything else is soap in a can and a Mach 3. Chuck
folks- myself included- might be able to pass along some shave gear if you'll let us know what you've already got.
Hi Chuck, and welcome to this place, Well, if I was starting from scratch, I'd make things as easy as possible for myself. I'd start with a mild yet popular razor like a Tech or a Gillette adjustable(on low setting). I'd get maybe 15-20 of the milder blades like a Crystal or Red personna to learn technique with, and also some sharper blades like the Gillette SharpEdge. Sounds like you already have the Proraso and brush, so you should be ok there. Have you used that stuff with your M3? The lather should perform well with that cartridge, and if not then it'll be worse using a DE with it. Don't try ebay for a razor.......ask here in a WTB post. Odds are the price will be cheaper and the item you receive will be in the shape advertised. Plus, other members may have extra razors you can try(as you saw in this thread) or buy for little money. They may not be mint, but should shave well. Good luck with whatever you decide on, Martin
Soap or cream? I think Target used to carry Proraso, that would be a great start. You already have a brush too, that helps. Blades, we always recommend a sample pack, look here for more info. Razor, I would recommend a Tech or mild Super Speed. JoAnna has some listed in the store here. You could also get some blades form her and some of her great soaps and creams to make it worth shipping.
Be sure to watch Mantic's videos here. Getting the right equipment is only 1/2 of a good shave. The rest is technique and these videos are the best introduction to good technique available.
How close are you to Mobile? I've seen quite a few razors at the flea market. Several GEM single edge razors, quite a few 60's and 70's superspeed. Passed up a Fatboy in the case one year...this was, of course, shortly before I knew what I should be looking for...:ashamed001 Yes, Target used to carry Proraso, so that's probably what you've got. For everything else, patiently get yourself through the overwhelming plethora of information available, and ask questions, we'll help get you set up
Williams mug soap is usually easy to find. With some practice it makes great lather. The Gillette Tech or Super Speed are great starter DE razors. I would suggest a SE also. A good 1912 Gem/Ever Ready will be a great starter razor IMO. I agree to use the classifieds here instead of the Bay.. specially to start until you know what you are looking for in the pictures. Anything else just ask.. Fuzzy
:happy102 I meant to make my statement more sarcastic, but got sidetracked! yeah, that thing petered out pretty fast
Welcome to the Den. As you can see there are lots of friendly and helpful folks here and you've already gotten great advice.
Hi, I'm a new guy, too. Found the videos incredibly helpful. Read the stickies. Listen, because the folks on this forum are very giving with their experiences. For me so far, it's all about lather (massaging your face with a soaped-up brush is worth the switch alone), angle, and letting the head of the razor do the work, not your hand. Take your time, and enjoy the ritual. Also, what you do after you shave is important. Witch hazel is your friend--haven't felt razor burn since I bought some. HTH.
Thanks for all the info guys, spent most of last night watching the youtube videos. I have a lot to learn. Chuck
As a newbie myself I have found this thread very useful. I watched all of the videos and have gotten some good ideas from the rest of the posts.
