Help for a Noob to Straight Shaving!!

[Sluggo]

Gentlemen,
I am thinking about trying to shave with a straight razor, but having difficulty knowing where to start. If you were making a straight razor kit for a noob, what would you include?

Here is some personal information: I have a thick, heavy beard and I am prone to ingrown hairs. I already have a bursh and cream so I think I am just looking for a razor and a strop (and maybe something to use to hone?)

Thanks for your advice!

[BJC]

Well, for starters I would suggest the following reading material as introductory information

http://www.straightrazorplace.com/sr...tarting_Out%3F

http://www.straightrazorplace.com/sr...sked_Questions

After that, I would recommend you find yourself a shave ready blade off of the B/S/T here or at www.straightrazorplace.com. There are other shave related sites as well, but I have no personal experience with them. I started with a 6/8ths round point ($35) from the B/S/T of straight razor place and a synthetic strop ($26 I think) from Tony Miller. I have since acquired a two more razors, both of which are 4/8ths spike point. While they give a good shave, I find myself reaching for my 6/8ths more and more. You'll eventually find the razor qualities that fit you best.

[netsurfr]

I would just emphasize the "shave-ready" condition of the blade. This is critical!
Then you should know that "shave-ready" condition blades still need to be stropped to prepare them for the shave.

[professorchaos]

I recommend reading the following article. Also, I have a heavy beard as well (I would if I let it grow, that is) and find that I get better shaves from larger blades. Try something in 6/8ths - anything larger might be a little unwieldy.

http://www.tzknives.com/site/RazorPa...azor-Shave.pdf

[mkevenson]

My first blade was a Double Arrow, white scales from KenRup. He made it shave ready. 6/8 and I find that it is the most comfortable blade I have. The price is reasonable. You will need a strop and Tony Miller makes beautiful ones. With some he will sell you a practice strop for a little extra coin, well worth it IMHO. Watch the shaving videos, you can see Lynn's at the SRP, posted in installments. Good Luck on your new adventure. The journey may be long so take it slow and ENJOY!!!!!

[bman40]

I just bought a Dovo Special Tortoise 5/8 from SRD - pre-sharpened.

I've only had three days using it, but so far, its nice.

There are several reviews of it on the site - it had excellent reviews. good price too, less than $100.

*you need a strop - Well Shaved Gentleman dot com has nice starter strops.