Starter razor?

[chef8489]

What would one look for in a good starter razor. i really want to try straight shaving again but still have no clue what to look for in a razor, strop, and stones. I currently sharpen my chef knives up to 8k and also wonder what I would need to hone the razor.
Is there someone you recommended to purchase a starter razor off? I dont want to spend 200.00 on something I might not stick to and still need a strop and maybe more stones.

 

[MetroNome]

Check out some of the Dovos at Straight Razor Designs...I think u can get a good one for around $75..plus now they are offering free lifetime honing with purchase.

Alternatively, buy a used one from the BST forum..many people try SR but don't like it and try to unload...

 

[InvictusManeo]

I got my first setup from whippeddog.com. It was ugly as hell, but cheap and 100% functional. He will even give some refund if you end up not liking the whole straight shaving thing. I invested about 50.00 for the razor, a strop (which you will need), and a pasted balsa strop. I dont think you can get a functional setup for any less.

 

[johnmrson]

I think that a 5/8-6/8 in a round point is a good starter razor. Something in a quarter or half hollow. Either BST or whippeddog.com are good sources.
I think you need to go to around 10000-12000 grit as a minimum for a nice shaving edge.

 

[PhatMan]

Chef8489,

I always recommend the Dovo Best in 5/8 or 6/8, full or half-hollow.

Excellent shavers and very easy to maintain.

A Dovo Best 5/8 half-hollow was the first razor I bought when I re-took up shaving with a straight; For me, it is a superb razor and I still use it in my rotation

You can get them from StraightRazorDesigns for ca 80 - 85 USD - I think SRD are still offering their 'honing for life' offer !

Good luck !

Have fun !

Best regards

Russ