newb,de q

[rockmehard]

HEY!

when i get a bit better at shaving im going to buy a good set.I was wondering what do you preffer the barbers knife or the DE razors ive seen you guys show me? for some reason im liking the knife not because its a knife i just see it more comfterbole and easier since its one big blade.


thanks.

also whats the care on a knife?

[Queen of Blades]

It isn't a knife. The correct term is straight razor.

The DE is probably a better starter razor. But I'm not an expert, and someone else will ring in with more info, I'm sure.

A kindly piece of advice. Leave the text message short hand on your cell phone. You will attract more helpful advice using full words. :001_smile

[NMMB]

rockmehard,

I would suggest that you might want to consider going with a DE before moving to a straight (that's the "knife", that you mentioned). The Straight will require a lot more work to keep it shave ready/worthy and will require much better technique. My suggestion would be to go for a non-adjustable DE, such as the Merkur HD, and work on your technique and understanding before you move to either a straight or an adjustable DE.

[rockmehard]

Should I buy one now or wait till im somewhat shaving knowlegable?

(for nmmb post)

[TimmyBoston]

I don't mean to be rude but is English your first language?

I woudn't recommend you getting a straight razor at the moment in the hands of a beginner they may be a recipe for disaster. I don't own one myself, I'm 25 and after 12 years of shaving I've just moved the DE razor. A DE razor when used properly will be much gentler on your face, but the technique is slightly harder to master. There may be split feelings on this, some people may advocate you simply learning on a DE because it is better and some may advocate you sticking to a pivoting razor that can be easier to use. I'll wait for someone with more experience to chime in, I'm certain someone will more experience than me can give you a definative answer. Good luck and shave gently.

[rtaylor61]

I think the first thing you need to learn is patience. Learn the proper technique for a DE shave. Stick with one razor, one cream or soap, and one brush. Do this for a month, maybe longer. Then consider expanding your horizons. Trying too much at once will result in disappointment, which, in reality, it where you are at.

Randy

[rockmehard]

actually no its not.
Spanish is

[TimmyBoston]

Randy's right, Patience in the Key. Things really will get better. Especially when you are young, it's very hard to learn, but keep reading and do what these experts say, things really will get better. Also if you are really interested in a safety (DE) razor, the initial cost will probably be higher for the razor itself, but the razor will last decades, as opposed to a year or two for a drug store razor (ie Mach 3) and the blades are dirt cheap compared the cartridges for the Mach 3 or other similar razors. You may want to look online (maybe Ebay) for a Gilette Super Speed, it's a very good razor and you may be able to get for less than $10 about the same price as a new Gilette in the stores. In the long run will save lots of money and you'll have a better shaving experience, but you have to be prepared that for a while, (temporarily) things may get harder but after that, they will get much, much better. :biggrin:

Edit:
Also after rereading one of your other threads. I know you're in the 11th grade and image is very important. Just a few years ago I was your age and I remember what it was like. But things are never as bad as them seem. Don't try too hard, don't take too many passes, because you're young, your beard probably isn't that thick yet (and it may never get there) my beard now isn't that thick and I'm 25. And that's not a big deal either. Just try taking one pass (just lather and shave once) that should give pretty good results. It will also be easier on your face and lessen razor burn and nicks. That third pass is always when I cut myself. Also you can shave at night, I do, and because if you take your time your shave can be close enough that you'll still look good the next day and your face will clearer than if you shave in the morning before school. Also pick up some after shave balm. Nivea makes a good inexpensive one, you may want to try the one for sensitive skin, as well. This will minimize razor burn and help your skin.
One final thought from your other thread, you may want to try to watch your spelling and grammar a little more closely. This is a suggestion, not an insult. That's why I asked if English was your first language. Don't feel bad, but some people may have a hard time figuring out what you're trying to say and be less likely to answer your questions. An occasional mistake is fine, though, you don't have to be perfect, I know I'm not. But just reread what you typed, before you submit it and you'll catch a lot of errors. I certainly do. Also don't feel bad about not giving your name. It's safer for kids to stay anonymous online.

[Steelforge]

From what the experts say on here, most people can get a closer shave using a double edge (DE) razor than using a cut throat (straight). Mainly because you need a lot more skill to shave with a straight.

In my opinion, you should stick to the basics. Get a DE razor like a Merkur HD (Hefty Classic), some Derby/Personna blades, some Proraso cream, a badger brush, and a mug. And just stick with that until you get used to the technique, that sort of setup will produce great shaves with a bit of practice. :biggrin1:

[Rik]

HEY!

when i get a bit better at shaving im going to buy a good set.I was wondering what do you preffer the barbers knife or the DE razors ive seen you guys show me? for some reason im liking the knife not because its a knife i just see it more comfterbole and easier since its one big blade.


thanks.

also whats the care on a knife?
Welcome to B&B!
Randy and Michael have given you some excellent advice although I wouldn't rule out an adjustable razor like the Merkur Progress.

Once you've mastered your form and technique don't hesitate to move into the straight razor realm. I use both a DE and straight razor daily - one am and the other pm. It's true I'm able to achieve just as close of a shave with a DE as with a str8.

When you are ready for a str8, I strongly recommend you read past threads (or create a new one) for a recommended starter kit with the most important variable being a shave-ready razor (new razors are not shave-ready).

Most important, keep us up to date with your success. Good luck!

[rockmehard]

Thanks for the input.
But whats the difference between one De razor and another?
looks?

[NMMB]

One of the major differences are adjustable vs non-adjustable. For a novice I would suggest a non-adjustable. Another major consideration will be between buying a used razor (like an old Gillette) or picking up a new razor (like a Merkur). Other than that you will find (in time) that some razors may have a blade angle or exposure that you find preferable, but that is something that I think it is only possible to learn with time and experimentation.

[PalmettoB]

Welcome aboard. I am still fairly new at this too, but one of the main differences is adjustable or not. The Merkur Vision, Progress, etc. are adjustable, meaning you can set the blade in the razor at different angles depending on what setting you choose. (Some of the old Gillette razors that can be had second-hand are this way too, but try the Merkur to start.) The others are fixed blade, meaning the changes come in the angles you use. Might want to start with a fixed-blade.

(Edit: Sorry, Michael...you beat me to it.)

[gc_30286]

i will suggest the Mekur HD. i have one and love it. i was very easy to learn, and i sure it will out last me (im 25)

a list to start cheap (assuming you are in the usa)
mekur HD $30
cheap brush from walmart or drug store $5
palmolive lather $2 (from cvs)
cereal bowl

also you will have to decide what to do about blades. i highly recomend ordering letterK sampler pack (in the buy sell trade section) for about $15 he will send you 5 of each of the most poplular blades (25 blades).

the walmart blades are also not that bad to start out with. (do not buy the gillete brand blades)

one you get all the stuff post back and well walk you through your first DE shave.

matthew

[rockmehard]

where do i get the Mekur? can I pick this all up in target?

[gc_30286]

the mekur can only be found off the internet (unless you are one of the fortunate few who lives near a shaving store) i bought mine from classicshaving.com. the old gilletes can be found on ebay of if you are lucky from a pawn or antique shop. i would suggest the mekur since you are new and would not know what to look for in a used razor.

matthew

[NMMB]

the mekur can only be found off the internet (unless you are one of the fortunate few who lives near a shaving store)...

In addition to "shave shops", which can be difficult to find, you can sometimes find Merkur razors in cigar shops or in knife shops... though, it will probably be easier to find one online than by searching in local shops. If you REALLY want to find a razor locally (since as a teen you may not have a credit card for placing orders) I would suggest that you check out some knife shops to see if they sell Merkur razors and check out some antique shops to see if they have an old Gillette (or other brand) DE. If you find an old razor at an antique store it will probably cost a little less than would a new Merkur, but it would probably be adjustable and you would need to make sure that you spend more time learning good shaving technique than playing with and adjusting the razor.