Looking for a new Singer

[Aperture]

I'm looking for a new singing straight in the 4/8 to 5/8 size, and I'm not really sure where to start. The only straight I own is an old solingen piece I inherited from my grandfather. Since I've never bought a razor myself, I don't know where to start.

[bjrn]

Welcome to B&B!

Are you already using the razor you inherited, and how large is it? Also, how much are you looking to spend?

[Aperture]

Welcome to B&B!

Are you already using the razor you inherited, and how large is it? Also, how much are you looking to spend?

I have been using the razor I inherited for about a month and a half now. It is a 4/8 hollow ground piece. I'm willing to spend up to 200 dollars to avoid purchase regret.

[bjrn]

Well, one place you should definitely check out is Classic Shaving (http://www.classicshaving.com/), where you could check out the razors by Thiers-Issard and DOVO. I'm not sure what to recommend. From Joel's Interactive Guide to Straight Razor Shaving (http://www.badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=28547) (which I definitely recommend reading):
Most straight razor users however will agree upon the following rules of thumb for NEW TI's and Dovo's...

1.) A Thiers Issard will often be much more difficult to hone than a Dovo.
2.) A Thiers Issard will typically shave better than a Dovo.
3.) A Thiers Issard will hold an edge longer than a Dovo.
4.) A low end Dovo will typically shave as good as a high end Dovo, where as this is not the case with TI's.
5.) A Dovo will offer the best value, in terms of what you get for the $.
6.) Dovo's have better gold wash, gold plating, and pinning jobs.

While perhaps not hollow enough to qualify as "singing", the DOVO "Special" Tortoise (http://www.classicshaving.com/catalog/item/522940/190288.htm) gets good reviews and will only run you $75.99 (rather than $200). Whatever you pick, I'd suggest getting the honing service for $20.


Of course, there's the option of going for a vintage blade as well. You can pick up a good straight razor from the buy/sell/trade forums here.

[Thebigspendur]

You have many options. On Eboy there are a few german vendors who sell NOS razors, Mr Barence and german razors are two I can think of offhand. You can buy new from classic shaving where you have a choice between Dovo and TI and you should check out the sales forums here and also check out SRP. There are always straights for sale there. There are also other vendors-Vintage blades and some other I'm sure others will chime in with other suggestions.