Newbie query

[Constantine]

Good morning, everyone. I didn't know whether to post this here or in the Newbie Check-in, so please bear with me.

I want to begin shaving with a straight razor but haven't a clue where or how to begin. While I fell away from using one, I have used a safety razor and I do shave with soap and a brush. Would you recommend transitioning to a straight via a safety razor, or simply going whole hog and taking the plunge with a straight razor itself?

On the one hand, if I were to begin (and reacquaint myself) with a safety razor I would be able to acquire the necessary accoutrement for a straight razor little by little--rather than dropping a wad all at once. I would also be able to continue reading, learning, etc., about straights while becoming proficient with a safety.

On the other hand, however, I don't know how many similarities there are between safety and straight razors, so becoming good with the former might not mean a hill of beans when it comes to transitioning to the latter. Besides, why not just jump into the deep end of the pool, right? Sink or swim!

Oh, now I remember...as much as I want to use a straight razor I must confess what I suspect is a typical newbie's fear: Straight razors intimidate the hell out of me--and yet I cannot resist. I'm a little nervous, then, to dive right in.

Please let me know what you think--whether it's best to work with a safety for a bit or just pull the trigger, get a straight razor, and be done with it. Have a great day and thanks!

Cheers,
Constantine

[Limey]

Sorry not to answer your questions but, is your location Santa Clarita, CA?

[Thebigspendur]

DE's or safety razors will only contribute to straight use in that you will become proficient in brush use and lathering but it will do nothing towards learning a straight so if you want to use a straight get a straight and just deal with the learning curve. There are guys here and at SRP who sell kits with all the basics for a reasonable price. That's where I would start if I were you.

[rickw]

Welcome to B&B. Sounds as though you are around the corner from me. Can't confirm until my GPS picks up a few sats. Right now it thinks it is on the East Coast.

[izlat]

Yup, a kit is a very good way to start!

I would go straight for the um (realized where I'm going - sorry for bad pun, totally unintentional) straight

Cheers
Ivo

[Constantine]

DE's or safety razors will only contribute to straight use in that you will become proficient in brush use and lathering but it will do nothing towards learning a straight so if you want to use a straight get a straight and just deal with the learning curve. There are guys here and at SRP who sell kits with all the basics for a reasonable price. That's where I would start if I were you.

I just got on SRP as well. Where do I find kits, either there or anywhere else? How much should I expect to spend? Classicshaving.com has the DOVO Classic "Special" (5/8) for around $70. Is this a good choice for a beginner, in particular the make, model, and size? Thanks!

[Constantine]

Yup, a kit is a very good way to start!

I would go straight for the um (realized where I'm going - sorry for bad pun, totally unintentional) straight

Cheers
Ivo

Why play it "safe," right?

[rickw]

For a good kit talk to Tony. http://shop.thewellshavedgentleman.com/main.sc

[kestrel]

Constantine

Don't let your trepidation stop you, and once you've started with the straight, try not to lose it entirely: A person without a healthy respect for deep water is a fool, but that shouldn't keep us from swimming for pleasure, should it?

Treat your razor with respect,handle it carefully, and it will serve you well.

Welcome and Good Luck

Graham
___________________________________
"We have met the enemy, and he is us."

Pogo

[Doc4]

For a good kit talk to Tony. http://shop.thewellshavedgentleman.com/main.sc

ditto.

at the very least, that is THE place to get a strop. As to the razor itself (and soap, brush, and so forth) there are a lot of different choices, so either one of Tony's kits or buy items you want individually.