Should I try a Straight?

[sandmountainslim]

I have been DE shaving for almost ten years now but the only straight shave I ever had was from a barber a few years ago. The only straight razor I have is an old family heirloom with a chip broken outta the blade so it is not servicable. To attempt a straight shave I would have to buy a razor.
Should I try it? If I do try I want to use an antique razor not on that takes half a DE blade.
Gimme any thoughts you have on the subject.
Wp

 

[dmachine]

Two things that keep me away from trying a straight razor:
1. The initial cost of buying a shave ready razor and strop
2. Having to strop the razor each time before shaving.

 

[Luc]

If you have to pick between a shavette and a straight, take the straight. The shaves are much better. The shavette will get you there too but it doesn't feel the same.

Shave ready straight could be found on BST for cheap, a strop, sometimes yes. If not, get a Filly or something like it, cheap and good.

Stropping isn't that bad. I strop my razors once a week and just use what I want without restropping. Once I used it, it goes in the pile to be stropped.

 

[sandmountainslim]

Two things that keep me away from trying a straight razor:
1. The initial cost of buying a shave ready razor and strop
2. Having to strop the razor each time before shaving.

I am the same way to a degree....I have spent SO much on DE blades I probably can't afford a servicable straight! The stropping I might enjoy once I learned to use one. I have an old strop that belonged to my great grandpa but his razor is in Texas with my cousin so no chance of shaving with it.
Wp

 

[luvmysuper]

I am in the learning process and despite some obvious trouble spots, I'm having a great time of it.
It is intimidating, and it is challenging, but what great thing in life is not?
Shop around and ask questions, a good straight is not that expensive unless you're buying a top brand heirloom or handmade one off.
A strop can be had for less than what you'd pay for a Superspeed on BST.
You already have the brushes and soaps/creams.

 

[flylot]

As for cost, may I direct you to:

http://ruprazor.com/store/index.php...category_id=6&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=32

There are other vendors that sell starter sets as well.

Or you could buy a vintage "shave ready" razor listed for sale on the several forum sites. I've purchased a shave ready for as little as $35! And there are other entry level strops for sale as well.

Try it, if you don't like it, you could always sell the razor and strop. You have little to loose and everything to gain. I am now shaving with a straight and after 10 shaves am hooked! There is a learning curve, but believe me, it's worth it!

 

[mdunn]

its definately worth giving it a shot

 

[Fnord5]

Yes.

 

[BEAR DEN]

If your thinking about it...you probably always will! So do it! If I knew now what I didn't know then..
1. Buy shave ready str8 here at B&B or SRP. Price of razor is not the best indicator that it's good or bad.
2. Buy vintage rather then new...usually less expensive and usually alot better.
3. Strops are more important then hones at first. Get a CHEAP practice strop and do practice.
4. Eventually get a Barber hone for slight touchups. You will not need this at first. Maintaining a shave ready str8 with a strop can go a very long way.
5. I would NOT rush out and buy multitudes of expensive hones...You will find out LATER if and what hones you may or may not need.
6. Enjoy the journey!!! Getting excellent shaves from the start IS NOT THE NORM...with patience and practice the shaves can become the best and most satisfying you will experience.

 

[sandmountainslim]

Anyone wanna trade a vintage Straight for these babies??
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=116886
Wp

 

[Thebigspendur]

If you need someone to talk you into using a straight its not for you. Using a straight is nothing like a DE. You have to develop proficiency with several skill sets and they don't come quick or easy. This is a decision you have to make for yourself. Its something you need to tackle because you really want to do it not because someone else talks you into it.

 

[pauls51]

I'd say give it a try.. You won't know if it suits you until you try it! Admittingly i am yet to try it as i would like a few more months of getting the skin used to such close shaving!

 

[Wil Dorenbos]

two things that keep me away from trying a straight razor:
1. The initial cost of buying a shave ready razor and strop
2. Having to strop the razor each time before shaving.

+1

 

[chainfire]

I just started straights and have to say they're definitely worth the learning curve and stropping. I say give it a go, and if you don't find it to your liking, sell the stuff on the bst and go back to DE - but I doubt you will.

 

[The National Razor]

I just started straights and have to say they're definitely worth the learning curve and stropping. I say give it a go, and if you don't find it to your liking, sell the stuff on the bst and go back to DE - but I doubt you will.

Agreed

 

[Zen Master Kool-Aid]

There's no way to know what you think of one unless you try it for yourself.

 

[Swampfox]

I have been DE shaving for almost ten years now but the only straight shave I ever had was from a barber a few years ago. The only straight razor I have is an old family heirloom with a chip broken outta the blade so it is not servicable. To attempt a straight shave I would have to buy a razor.
Should I try it? If I do try I want to use an antique razor not on that takes half a DE blade.
Gimme any thoughts you have on the subject.
Wp

Go ahead and try it, Bill...if you want to. I see some great looking vintage straights in the antique stores around here, most are being sold for very good prices. Since I have no interest in them, I have never bought one. I'm certain you could find one for a great price in your area, too.

 

[Eddieb208]

Don't know why you need our permission to shave with the tool of your choice...you are over 18, right?

 

[syzygy]

Should you try something new and interesting that will build valuable skills and result in an incomparable outcome? Jeepers yes, what the heck are you waiting for?

 

[grouse79]

I guess it depends how much time you want to devote to maintaining your shaving gear and if you already have skills in using/sharpening knives. I like being able to pop a blade in and get on with the shave. There's not much maintenance required with a DE aside from rinsing and giving the occasional scrub clean.

Chances are, if you're thinking about it, you'll take the plunge eventually. That's how things seem to work around here!