Hey everyone, I'm looking to buy my first straight razor, (want everything <$100). The most recommended I see is Sight Unseen from Whipped Dog, and I see they have both a "Poor Man Strop Kit" for $25, and a "Two Strop Leather/Poly Strop Kit" for $39. Is the $39 worth it? or is the$25 a better idea? Also is there a better razor I should be looking at? Thank you.
I would recommend the bench strop also, less chance of rolling the edge. Concentrate on shaving technique knowing your blade is good.
There's a good chance you'll nick your first strop while you're learning so I'd go with something inexpensive for now. I started with one of Glen's bench strops and it worked fine for me. One of the Whipped Dogs would be fine too but if it was me I'd probably just go for the cheap one. You can get an Illinois 127 for $40 or a really nice SRD for $50 so if you can't stay well under those prices you might as well get one of those.
I'm happy with my sight unseen but looking back on it I really liked the razor Glen has up for sale on his site. The upside to that is you actually know what your getting and it's a nicer looking razor but it's going to cost you over double.
It's a bit more expensive($125) but not much, try a Ralph aust or Dovo and strop from SRD. You will be happy with the strop and know the razor is shave ready. It will come with free honing and the strop leather is replaceable if you nick it up.
I bought that one from Glenn. Awesome sauce - I also bought a sight unseen from larry at Whipped dog as well. Hi - my name is Eric and I'm a shaving addict. There - I said and I feel no shame... Cheers
I have one of drygulch's. it is very nice. the leather is very luxurious. heavy duty would be an understatement. very well built, the hardware is top notch. I'm very impressed with the workmanship.
I would stick with the bench (or table) strop. Several vendors have good ones. You are likely to hack up your first one, so keep that in mind. Larry's sight unseen razor is a great way to start. You are assured of getting a usable razor that can be honed/refreshed several times, and also one without a cracked or otherwise damaged blade. His reputation is excellent, and he stands by what he sells. Best of luck to you HammeredThor! Oh, and Happy Shaving!!
