So I am just getting into wet shaving and have been looking mostly into straight razors (but my friend said i might want to start with a safety razor so i don't "kill myself") but want to see the consensus on what most of the newbies are getting into and why. I would love any suggestions or comments Thanks!
Start with what you want. I'm sure your great-great-great grandfather started with a straight, so why not you? Just do your research and watch and learn from as many videos as you can. Same would go if you wanted to start with a DE. Ask questions. Lots of folks here with lots of experience with both types of razors and are more than happy to help you out.
I know it isn't the answer you are seeking, but if you use the canned shave cream/gel/etc I would start with a brush and soap or cream first. Whichever one you use, a good quality lather makes the shave. Good shaves can be had with both safety and straight razors. The learning curve is much shorter then with the straight razor. If you do decide to start with a straight, make sure you get one that has been honed by someone that knows what they are doing. Welcome to the Den and enjoy your shaves.
I know eventually I'd love to "go straight" but for now I'm gonna have to get the DE down first... patience young grasshopper
Welcome to The Shave Den, a great community of guys and gals that enjoy wet shaving, I hope you enjoy your stay! You'll find the Welcome to The Shave Den Master Sticky, put together by our very own Queen of Blades, will help you find your way around the forums.
Welcome Redsurfer! As far as str8 compared to DE, there is a world of difference in respect to learning. The DE is more forgiving as stated but in either razor, technique is the key. NO pressure with either. I would suggest viewing Mantic59's vids and then check out some straight shaving vids. That can answer as well as show you most of your questions.
DE razor=has a "bar" in line with the head of the razor..yes..more forgiving..almost anyone can use em Str8 razor=nothing to save you other then your well "trained" hands and sensitive face :happy102 Though I read a few posts on other sites that said these were 25% closer than any DE/SE in comparison..though took me 4 months to get everything down to where 1 year later I can shaver in about 20 minutes ST
Whoo Hoooo, Well just finished my first shave with my str8 razor... whew what a rush yet calming... Great stuff. cant wait to get my brush and soap to really complete the process.
Straights are Fan.Dam.Tastic! Now that I have shaved with an edge honed on a Coticule, I think they are even greater!
Welcome and congratulations on your first Str8 shave...It's very true...they will only get better...And the brush and soap will really improve everything dramatically aswell... All the best and many great shaves to ya...see you 'round the Den...
Welome....I am new to it also...Before I first even started trying a straight, I got a good cream, and good brush to see what a real cream felt like....If i was to use the modern cartridge, I would stll use my C.O. Bigelow, as well as my Cella
