Minneapolis Newbie Check-In

**JaeBeam** · 01-14-2009, 06:30 PM

Hey folks.

Used a safety razor in my 20's, a hand me down from dad, and I regret letting it go by the wayside...

Well, I'm 39 now, and its time to up my game after 4 years of marraige. I purchased a Quatro thingy, and god I hate it... as part of my endeavor to clean up my act, I joined Basenotes (for cologne schooling), and they pointed me here.

The information is overwhelming! It looks like the Merkur Progress is a good newbie razor to get, from reading one of the linked posts up front. but there is so much more to purchase!

Is there a "one stop shop" that gets a guy on his feet? I need a brush, razor, shaving cream, stand for it all and lord knows what else. I can lurk for a week or so if thats best, and I noticed the marketplace section, but the razors for sale there are things I've not heard of, and I don't want to bite off my face out of the gates.

something like this any good? : http://www.theindianfoodstore.com/me...ety-razor.html

Regardless, great site, I'm sure I'll muddle my way thru!

**thirdeye** · 01-14-2009, 06:35 PM

Welcome to B&B, you've found the best place on the web for muddling...

There's all kinds of things to try so take your time a read on......Ask lots of questions and enjoy!!!

**Bobbyfrass** · 01-14-2009, 06:40 PM

Where do I begin? First, welcome to B&B. You've come to the right place.

Second, spend a few hours reading posts before making any big purchases.

Third, the reviews section can be VERY helpful. But also keep in mind, that as with most things in life, personal tastes vary and YMMV.

So here is my succinct recommendation for a new set up:

C&E BBB for $35 (Crabtree & Evelyn Best Badger Brush)
Merkur HD for $35
West Coast Shaving Blade Sampler Pack (various prices)
Tabac soap in ceramic tub for $14.
Nivea ASB.

You don't need to start off with new items, or things this expensive, although this will seem like nothing once the Acquisition Disorders (AD's) begin. But this would be an ideal setup, IMO.

Oh, and why aren't you still using your dad's razor? Is there something wrong with that one????

**DunEdinRanger** · 01-14-2009, 06:46 PM

Welcome.

Before you decide on a razor, think about the type of beard/stubble you have and which will cut that better. Do you have thick coarse facial hair? Does it grow quickly?

My first real soap was Tabac, and the first shave cream I bought was TOBS St. James. Both are excellent products.

If you like a lemon/lime scent, try the huge tub of JM Fraser's.

**copperhead** · 01-14-2009, 06:56 PM

Welcome to B&B! The razor you have linked to is one of the best and a good piece to start. As stated above just get a blade starter pack, sampling of blades of different makes so you can find the blade that best works for you.

**homh** · 01-14-2009, 07:01 PM

Welcome!

You have a lot of choices to make, and that can be a big part of the fun.

**Velomane** · 01-15-2009, 12:48 AM

Welcome aboard. I love the Twin Cities.
Mike

**SRock** · 01-15-2009, 02:40 AM

Welcome to B&B, let the learning experience begin!

**Etoyoc_Rebmos** · 01-15-2009, 03:42 AM

Welcome to B&B!

While you are doing research on what to buy and who from, you could always stop by your local Walmart, CVS, Walgreens, etc... and pick up a puck of Van der Hagen, Surrey, or Williams Soap and a cheap boar bristle brush. Practice making lather in a latte mug, soup mug, breakfast bowl, etc... Even these cheaper items will improve the shaves you are getting and can help you get a better idea of what you want from a brush, soap, etc...

**kwk285** · 01-15-2009, 07:13 AM

Welcome

**TFrankMac2140** · 01-15-2009, 11:23 AM

Welcome to B&B!

**pal** · 01-15-2009, 06:47 PM

Welcome!

**Mike W** · 01-15-2009, 10:59 PM

Welcome to B&B, I also live in Minneapolis.

**ScottyD** · 01-16-2009, 01:19 AM

Welcome, You have come to the right place. As mentioned above, spend some time looking around before you spend a lot of money setting up your first shave den. There is plenty of time for that later. Enjoy!