My first straight. What now?

[trumpetchris]

I just picked up my first straight at an antique store. "Golden Man" on the blade. Got it for a song. I've contacted Glen at Gem Star for a quote. It needs to be sharpened, honed, etc. I might get better looking scales on it, as the off-yellow looks a little boring.

After that, what else do I need to enjoy as pain-free as possible first shave? I see I'll need a strop. Where/what/how much would you recommend. I'm not sure I'll get into straight shaving, as I'm having great success with DE, but I'd like to learn on one and get decent at it.

Thanks for any tips/help/advice!

 

[Luc]

Have a look a Joel's tutorials on how to use a strop and how to straight shave. If you already have good lather and good prep, it will be easier.

As you mentionned, a strop is a must. Try a cheaper strop to start with, I can't comment on this strop but it's always recommended:

http://ruprazor.com/store/index.php...product_id=22&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=32

Why a cheap strop? You will nick the strop for sure, if you start with an expensive one, it will break your heart!

Take it slow, low angle and enjoy!

 

[zippo]

I realy hope I`m wrong but I think the razor you picked up is from Pakistan. Two golden men is from there and I`m pretty sure Golden man is from there also, I hope I`m wrong. the quality of the steel used in razors from there is questionable however you can be lucky ,but not very often. Before you spend any money on it just make sure of its pedigree,as I said I hope I`m wrong
Kind regards Peter