Straight Razors
There has never been a better time to start using a straight razor or collecting them. Shaving styles have changed dramatically over the last few decades through early straight razors, electric, double-edged and contemporary multi-bladed shavers.
For some reason, the sheer nostaligia that lies behind owning and using a straight razor on a daily basis is reason enough for tens of thousands of users world-wide to continue practicing the age-long art of straight razor shaving and collecting highly desirable razors for their rotations.
At straight razor collector, we have access to the latest and best world-wide deals on straight razors and straight razor products, and hope that you either continue to enjoy your use or collection of straight razors, or begin your own journey to shaving nirvana with us.
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Things you will need if you shave with a straight razor
Straight Razor - Like most things, there are varying degrees of quality. Don't buy the best or most expensive razor. You may not like the whole thing and who needs an expensive white elephant? Don't buy the cheapest razor either. If your shaving experience isn't a good one you're guaranteed to give up on straight razors. The quality of the razor has a lot to do with achieving an acceptable outcome. Most beginners start with a carbon steel blade since they are easier to keep sharp.
Razor Strop - All straight razors require daily stropping before and after use to maintain the razor-sharp edge. A good quality double-sided linen/leather strop will keep your razor ready for use.
Strop Paste - There are several strop pastes available, each one having a different purpose. For regular maintenance on your daily-use strop you want Yellow Paste for maintaining the leather side and White Paste for the linen side.
Hone - While stropping is for routine edge maintenance it will not sharpen a dull razor. All razors will lose their edge over time. To replace the edge you will need to hone it 2-4 times a year. Do not use kitchen knife sharpeners or the hone you use for your hunting or pocket knifes. Most such hones and sharpeners are far too coarse and will destroy the fine edge on a razor. A razor hone should be a minimum of 6000 grit but 8000-10,000 is preferred and will produce a finer edge.
Styptic Pencil - Minor nicks are nearly unavoidable when just learning. An alum based styptic pencil is generally all that is needed attend to them.
Patience - The various requirements of straight razor shaving do come with a learning curve. Be patient. Ask questions of those who have been doing it for a while and are available to help. Be realistic in your expectations and don't get frustrated if your earliest attempts don't go well. Keep practicing.
