New Guy Checking In

**BIG JOHN** · 07-29-2007, 04:22 PM

Hello everyone,

My name is John and I live in New York. I've been reading all your posts here for the last 4 weeks and a week ago I saw the light and made the change to wet shaving with a DE. I read so many posts about how wet shaving is an enjoyable experience and how shaving is no longer a chore. Let me say that I now look forward to shaving! Being in my 40's, I've been shaving for a long time and right now I couldn't be happier making the switch to wet shaving. I purchased a Merkur HD, Merkur blades, a Vulfix Fine Badger brush with a 22mm knot, Colonel Conks amber shaving soap and almond soap and Pinaud - Clubman original aftershave lotion. The first few shaves with the DE were a little irritating, but a week later, I am getting a very close shave with no irritation or cuts. At some point, I would love to try a straight razor. I'm thinking I might buy a Feather Artists Club RG with replaceable blades to try out straight razor shaving. I think this might be the best straight razor to start with so I can learn shaving techniques and not worry in the beginning about stropping and honing. Any comments would be appreciated.

**Xavier** · 07-29-2007, 04:29 PM

Welcome John!!! Great start with DE setup. As for straight razors, well I admire you guys, I don't have that courage. Good luck!!!

**Jim** · 07-29-2007, 04:33 PM

Welcome John! Sounds like you are doing fine!

**rodneyk915** · 07-29-2007, 04:42 PM

Hi John, welcome to B&B!! Look forward to hearing how it goes. I've been DE shaving for 5 weeks now and am loving it. Never in my life did I ever think I would say I love shaving

I have now ventured into the straight realm having bought a Wade & Butcher which will arrive Tuesday and a Boker from a generous board member who is preparing it for me. So we'll see how it goes

Anyway, settle in and ask anything you need to ask. It won't take long for one of the many very knowledgeable shavers to answer.

**Leisureguy** · 07-29-2007, 09:40 PM

Welcome, John. It sounds like you're progressing well. I do highly recommend that you buy both the large blade sampler packs and work your way through the various brands. I think you'll be surprised at the differences between different brands.

In the US: here and here.
(In the UK: here.)

**Kyle** · 07-29-2007, 10:43 PM

Welcome, John. You've picked a good kit to start with. Probably the best advice I can give you is to take your time and enjoy this new way of shaving. There is no need to rush out and buy up a bunch of new soaps, creams, blades, etc. Take your time and get to know your equipment while you perfect your technique. Then, when its time to make a purchase, take it slow so that you can fully enjoy the newness of each product and get to know its strengths and weaknesses.

**KWE** · 07-30-2007, 12:44 AM

Welcome to the forums!

**galpman** · 07-30-2007, 07:12 AM

Hi John, Welcome to B&B. Great to have you aboard.

**Daedalus** · 07-30-2007, 10:12 AM

Hi John,

Welcome to B&B. As another recent convert to traditional shaving, I never realized what a pleasure it is. My first few shaves were not the best, but there is a learning curve to it. If you want to try a straight, there are many people here who really know what they're doing and are willing to help out.

Daedalus