I am brand new... first post. I stumbled upon this site today while looking for the Topaz aftershave my barber splashes on my neck after he shaves it. He is traditional, and that stuff is a perfect follow-up to the cut and neck shave. He dusts me with some powder that always smells and feels good, too, but I don't know what he uses. Anyway, all this wetshaving business is pretty new to me. But I read your posts and threads and I am intrigued and inspired. I want to jump into the westshaving world. I could use some guidance though and I would appreciate any help you can give me. I have never used a good razor. I really like the feel of the straight razor my barber uses, because it cuts so cleanly and close. I'm 35 and I have never used electric, although I use one of those plastic, rubber and metal refill razor doohickeys, like a extra triple blade extreme something or another. I use canister gel -- usually whatever is on sale, or I go with the Edge shave gel. It works okay, but it is never memorable. It is usually just about getting the job done every morning, and sometimes not very well. I want to learn more and I hope some of you fellows can point me in the right direction. I have no idea where to start. I like the idea of using vintage or vintage-styled equipment to get the job done. I have never considered moving in this direction, but I think it is time.
My advice; leave NOW while you can! I've been here 3 days and have already spent $100+ on shaving equipment and see no end in sight! This whole shaving thing is addictive once you get your head into it. RUN AWAY! If you like the idea of vintage stuff, I'm sure someone will try to get you to buy an old Gillette Super Speed or the like. I personally am a modern guy and went with a Merkur. It's up to you, and from what I've seen, I (and you will too, I'm sure) will have more than one razor when it's all said and done. Good luck to you Welcome to the site Don't say I didn't warn you...:shocked031
Welcome to the Den! Go grab a favorite beverage, something to snack on, get comfy, and click here. Tons of stuff to keep you busy for a while. We're here to help, so ask away! Enjoy.
Welcome! Your main problem will be that there are so many good options to choose from. :signs002 Have fun finding what you like best. Enjoy the forums.
Thanks for the warning, but too late late! The madness started as soon as I posted that message. I headed out to sally's to find the master topaz AS, and I found the Pinaud instead. The smell reminds me of the Topaz. Bought it. Looking at razors now, and I'm sure I'll be right there with you at the $100 range in no time. Maybe I'll suggest it to the wife for holiday shopping.
Welcome to The Shave Den, a great community of guys and gals that enjoy wet shaving, I hope you enjoy your stay! Be sure to sign up for the November Newbie Give-Away for a chance to win some great shave gear!
:happy102 I would also recommend taking at look at the reviews here if you haven't already. They can certainly give you a good idea of popular razors, creams, soaps, and all of the other goodies. Have fun
My fellow Newby is right. This happens to most members. Get familar with the term "Acquisition Disorder" lol
Thanks to all of you for the warm welcome. The guides are extremely helpful, and I entered the newbie drawing. I'll take a look around and find something good to get started.
Welcome! congratulations on your choice, with the old razor and shaving 'something unique, here you can learn and know many things that will come in handy for your new hobby ... let us know how and 'round!
Bought a razor Well, I did it. I broke down and bought my first DE razor last night. It is shipping this morning, and it should be here in a few days. It is a 1940s Gillette with the ball on the end of the handle. I have no idea what style it is, but it appears to be in very good shape. Has a brass color to it, and a textured handle. It wasn't expensive, and I am drawn to vintage and antiques anyway, so this seemed like a perfect fit for my needs. I'll be picking up a sampler pack of razors now. Anyway, cheers to you all for the tips, suggestions and just an overall excellent shaving board. I had no idea this place existed until a few days ago, and now I'm moving toward my first real wet shave.
If the razor does not have teeth, then it sounds like a Tech to me which is a great shaver to start with, or end with.
