Getting First Straight Razor + Strop - Which Is The Better Option...

[Solo]

Hi

First post here, but it will be a doozie...

I have been using a safety razor for about 2 years now. I watched Sweeney Todd one two many times, and now I must use a straight...

I am having trouble choosing my first straight razor and strop.

I have done a lot of research here, and lots of people say to buy a "cheaper/beginner" straight to start, but that's not really my style. I enjoy the wet shaving process, but I also have a great appreciation for the tools used (which it seems most people here do as well...)

I live in Canada, so I will be ordering from Fendrihan...

Here are the two options I am contemplating...

Thiers Issard Straight Razor Set

http://www.fendrihan.com/thiers-issa...ath=116_22_106

Or

Dovo Prima Klang
http://www.fendrihan.com/presharpene...Path=116_22_83

and

Illinois Razor Strop
http://www.fendrihan.com/illinois-ra...Path=116_76_78

Is there any reason why one option would be better than the other? The price is pretty close for both (not really a big deal anyways)

The main issue I have with the Thiers Issard kit is that the scales on the straight razor are plastic, while the scales on the Dovo are wood. I don't know - it just seems that having plastic scales makes it seem a little "cheaper"? I have never held one, so I'm not sure.

Any opinions? Comments? Advice?

Thanks

[Blix]

Plastic scales is fine, I wouldn't worry about a TI feeling cheap...
You should by that Illinois strop even if you buy the TI, it's a great and inexpensive strop , and you want the linen for your daily stropping.

[dakotaev]

Both are nice razors. One thing to watch out for, the fancy goldwash on the Dovo is going to take a bit more care to keep looking nice. If you get any water spots or rust it's pretty difficult to remove without damaging the finish.

[blademen]

I would recommend the filly strop being your first. It’s inexpensive and you should be prepare to nick and cut up your first strop.

It's well worth the $22.00.

[PozzSka]

I love my TI's. I would get that one. And it comes with the paddle travel strop, great deal really.

[goatee]

going cheap to start is only because of ruining stuff at first.
get the good stuff, for sure. but also get some practice stuff too.

[Kentos]

Superior shave has TIs with wood scales for the same price, and rams horn for 10.00 more, but no strop.