Good starter straight?

[Dr. Mike]

Alright, I have read much advice about going with nice up front, but right now that isn't as much of an option as I would like. I would really like to give straight razor shaving a try, and given the other items I will have to buy, I am wondering what would be the best bang for my buck on a new razor if I were to set the upper limit at $100?
A local cutlery store sells a Filarmonica 13 for $79.95. I haven't seen it yet. The guy didn't seem too knowledgeable, and couldn't tell me the size or grind of the blade, only that the box said 13. Is this a good deal/good razor?
Any input will be helpful.

[FloppyShoes]

yes, the "Fillies" as they are sometimes called are good razors. The #13 is well known and has a solid reputation. If I recall correctly it's a 7/8 (almost 8/8) full hollow. For that price I'd say it's a good deal. You'll need to have it honed by someone who knows what they are doing, and of course you'll need a strop too. But buying a nice Filarmonica is a good place to start.

[Dr. Mike]

I should also say that I have what I would consider a thick beard (i.e. except for where it is retreating on top of my head, I might be mistaken for the missing link!). In reading Joel's straight razor shaving guide, he mentions that a wedge, rather than a hollow grind might be better. Should I be looking for a wedge, or can I get a good shave with a hollow?

[Amyn]

That is certainly a good deal for the filly if it is a 7/8 - 8/8 size.
My concern is that for a beginner that may be too large of a size. It is a little more difficult to control a larger str8 and especially if you are just starting.

Once you get more proficient it will be a breeze to shave with any size str8.

I would buy that razor because it is a really good price ( I believe classic shaving used to sell it for 100).

Consider getting a str8 between 5/8 and 6/8 to begin with, a hollow ground should be just fine for now.

[Limey]

I would recommend the Dovo Joel reviewed in this thread
I believe its about $80 add another $20 to have it honed professionally and you're there!

[A.de.Lioncourt]

You may wish to try a Thiers Issard Super Gnome.

They are half hollow so the blade will be heavy enough to slice through a thick beard, but are not a full wedge so they are easier to hone.

Here's a 5/8's
and a 6/8's

... Both within your price range.

[Suzuki]

The TI Gnomes are supposed to be a very good razor at the price - one of the few heavier grinds available at a reasonable price. They are very highly thought of and the heavier grind will help get throught the tough stuf and is a little more forgiving of bad technique than a full hollow (at least in my experience).

You might also consider going the vintage route - you can probably find a nice 5/8 or 6/8 razor in a heavier grind that has been nicely refurbished for around $50 to $60. If you buy a new razor, don't forget to get it professionally honed, as it won't be shave-ready from the factory.

For a first straight, I wouldn't go over a 6/8, as you'll likely do damage with anything bigger.

[Aneurysm]

Ever thought of getting a NOS Wapienica? It's really good for it's price but it doesn't come shave ready, you could get it honed by one of the masters around. Open_razor has it on ebay I think you can get it for around US$16. There's lots more info on it at www.straightrazorplace.com

[ucliker]

I agree with many starting any bigger than 6/8 can be difficult. well all the razors that were mentioned are great starter razors, the wapi's are great if you get a good one. You should check out the B/S/T of straight razor place found here http://www.straightrazorplace.com/fo...splay.php?f=46
for a cheap shave ready straight

[The Invisible Edge]

It might be well worth trying a vintage 6/8 full wedge (W&B etc) if you have a heavy or wiry beard - I use a wedge quite often and find that the heavier stiff blade gives an excellent shave though perhaps with not quite as much 'feel' as a hollow grind. Worth thinking about though!