Hello from Oregon I was really happy to find TSD I have been lurking around for a few days, I have gotten lots of info from here. So I decided to take the plunge and register. This all started when I ran out cartridges. The last few times I had to buy them I was disgusted with the price, and to be honest not really impressed with the shave. Granted that could be due to the prep. etc.the only thing good I can say about them is they are quick, And you don't have to be fully awake to use them. So a few days ago I had had enough. Called the folks to see if they had an old DE laying around. BTW It is always a challenge to communicate with them on the phone as they don't hear real well. So trying to get them to understand why I wanted an old razor was difficult. Once that was out of the way. The answer was "No I must have thrown them out, Why do you want one again?" So I was off to the local antique store. I found a real nice 60's super speed $4 BTW. I was looking for a black handle adjustable only because that was the fist razor I had ever used. Then off to the drugstore for some blades, I found some Wilkinson Sword. I don't know if these are good or bad. I was set, I found myself getting excited about giving it a try again. I got home, Cleaned up my new best friend, Loaded a blade, Prepped my 6 days growth. (I have to say at this point as I was looking at the blade, I was afraid I was going to Fillet myself.) This is like riding a bike. Granted I will need to work on my technique but it all went pretty well. I am glad that I learned to shave with a DE. The last shave I had like that was in a salon in Bangkok. So I have a feeling this will become more to me than just a means to an end. As I was writing this, My Buddy came over and wanted me to go to the antique store with him to pick out a razor. Of course I said yes, and I came home with another super speed and want to go back for a few more. I am now looking for a inexpensive brush. Any suggestions would be helpful. Smoky
Hey, Smoky, :signs046 to TSD. It sounds like you are off to a great start. A bunch of us here really like the Semogue boar brushes. They are quite reasonable and once broken in give terrific lather from both soaps and creams. They are made in Portugal but even with shipping are good buys. I have the 1305 and the larger 2000 and genuinely like them both. Take a look at The Vintage Scent http://www.vintagescent.com to see what is currently available. Good luck and enjoy those shaves.
Welcome to the Den! You and I have similar stories, although I was lucky enough to have a couple heirloom SS razors lying about when the mood finally struck. Enjoy your adventure; it's a fun one!
Welcome to TSD! My cheap brush recommendation would be a Vulfix VS5 boar. You can pick one up at bullgooseshaving.net for $10.50 + S/H. Omega boar is another good options, and many here love the Semogue boar brushes. Overall, a good boar brush is the best to start with unless you're ready to spend over $50 - even then some like boar better.
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 September Newbie Give-Away for a chance to win some great shave gear!
Thank you Thanks for the welcome I am a member of another forum, unrelated. I have met many friends from there. Sometimes the threads can be a very vicious, and unfriendly. This forum seems to be very friendly. I am glad to be here. Smoky
Welcome. I just registered here myself. I went to the local antique stores today and found a few razors as well. None of them in great shape but they are a place to start. I travel for work so I can see myself going in alot more antique shops to see if I can find anymore. As for a brush I just hit up the local beauty supply stores. I found a brush/shave cream set for 20 dollars. Its a synthetic brush made by Men-U. I have used it once and it seemed pretty decent but its the only one I have ever used so I'm by far not the one to say if it is good or not. I'm sure if you shop around at some beauty supply shops you can find something. Just make a few phone calls. Welcome to the site.
I know what you mean about other forums being slightly less than pleasant. I've not had a bad experience here yet, everyone seems to be great
