New to DE/wet shaving and now I've got this.

[APBT]

Hello all,
Today I went to an antique store and I found a few decent finds including an Ever Ready SE razor. Now, I'm still new to DE razors and I'm terrified to use a SE considering what I've read from users online. That said, I saw this in great shape for 10$ so I pulled the trigger. Now I'm left wondering what I should do with this. And I'm wondering what this is and whether it is any good. Is there any info you all could share? Specifically when it's from, is it worth using and what am I in for in using it? Also, stainless or carbon blades? (the local pharmacist only has the carbon)

Thanks to all!
Kevin


Here's the pics:

 

[Niles]

The Ever-Ready Gems are wonderful razors. I'm not positive which one yours is. I use stainless blades in mine.

 

[SteveWY]

Very nice!

 

[dpittman70]

Nice razor. I'm sure others on here can identify your razor.

As far as what to do with it, how to use it, etc., geofatboy has an informative video on youtube demonstrating an SE titled: "Gem 1912 Single Edge Razor Demo by Geofatboy." I've got a GEM SE and think it is an excelent razor. You can get blades at a number of local drugstores.

 

[JaxJim]

It looks like a 1924 Shovel Head to me, but I may be off the mark. In any event, nice score!

 

[Shutterbug57]

That thing is TOXIC. PM me and I will send you my address so we can properly dispose of it.




Seriously, get some GEM SS PTFE blades (some Walgreens carry them) and enjoy the dang thing. If you can't find blades, PM me and I will send you a few.

 

[morseman]

Yes that is a 1924 shovel head and will provide you with a nice close shave, and as it happens i get a nice shave with a carbon blade in mine, just dry the blade after use as they rust very quickly. btw nice score for $10

 

[dcobranchi]

That razor and case are pristine! Really terrific grab. The '24 is milder than some of the other SEs. Take your time and keep the angle close to zero. The face of the razor ought to be almost flush against your cheek.

For blades, I suggest picking up a pack of GEM coated stainless or Treet carbon steel. I prefer the Treets, as I feel they're sharper. But, as pointed out above, they will rust if you don't dry them thoroughly.

 

[gearchow]

that's a wonderful handle, very grippy even when wet and soapy.

-jim

 

[InfernoOrangeSS]

SE razors are much easier to learn and get amazing shaves than DEs. Get the GEM SS PTFE SE blades and enjoy some amazing shaves!

 

[APBT]

Thanks guys! So it's a 1924, most likely? I'm looking forward to using it once I get a handle on DE shaving.

 

[the beav]

Nice '24 at a great price--congratulations. Don't be worried about using it; just go buy some blades and give it a try. Just use a steeper angle when you're shaving as compared to a DE. The carbon blades will rust and will only last 2-3 shaves, so keep that in mind.