Thread: Best Straight razor

What is the best kind of straight razor to get? I looked at a Zawada, can there really be that much difference in having a hand made blade or the use of Demascus steel. I plan to stick to this, so I will invest to do it, but the price for what seems to be the best is incredibly high. any thoughts are appreciated.

I would say no, you do not need to spend an arm and a leg to get a great shaving razor. With the custom blades, you are paying more for the artistic qualities and the satisfaction of having something "special". Don't get me wrong, they are great shavers, but you can spend a lot less and get a shave that's as good.

Jordan

PS If you are just starting out, you may want to try a variety of different razors, grinds, sizes, etc. That way, you can see what you like. THEN invest big $$$ if you want to. Keep in mind, your tastes may change over time. Isn't this fun?

You're gonna hate this answer, but the best straight razor is the one that you get the best shave with. Whether it be a $30 Wapi, or a $1000 Livi, Zawada or Wacker...it's only good if you can shave well with it.

With that said, there's a better chance the really good razor will give you an AMAZING shave than a $30 Wapi.

I would say look to spend around $100-$200 if you can on a new razor, or pick up a used/restored shave-ready razor in BST here, and go from there.

Originally Posted by kasperitis

With that said, there's a better chance the really good razor will give you an AMAZING shave than a $30 Wapi.

Can't be bothered to search right now, but Iwan said that his wapi outshaved his high end razors, including his Livi Takeda damascus.

Shave quality wise, a wapi can be just as good.

Like most folks have said the best straight razor is one that melts your whiskers and it does not have to be custom blade. Many of my best blades are older straights restored to melt away whiskers. They can be had for much less than 100 bucks

This is basically the same question as "Who is better looking, Brunettes Redheads, or Blonde's" beauty is in the eye, so to speak and every razor fits each face differently, so my theory is buy and try as many as possible...
See there is reason to my RAD

Thomas and I spoke on the phone earlier today and my suggestion for somonw who really wants a "custom" is to figure out his preferences with a more affordable piece first. I'd start with a $50 to $80 Dovo or similar, maybe 6/8 size and learn to shave well first. This will teach you whther a lighter 5/8 may be a better fit or you may still be wanting larger. Once proficent at shaving you will have a better idea of what custom fits your needs.

Tony

Originally Posted by ThomasD

What is the best kind of straight razor to get? I looked at a Zawada, can there really be that much difference in having a hand made blade or the use of Demascus steel. I plan to stick to this, so I will invest to do it, but the price for what seems to be the best is incredibly high. any thoughts are appreciated.

I would not get something that expensive to start with, only because aside from actually shaving, there are other things to learn, such as how to strop and take care of your razor. There is a tendency to roll or otherwise destroy the edge. You may ding it on the faucet, etc. When you are more comfortable, and as someone has said, when you know what kind you like and works best for you, then take the plunge. As to the shave itself, if you can't get a good shave with a Wapi, chances are you won't with a custom either. So there really is no advantage I see to getting one as your first.

The best razor is that sharp one in your hand when you are ready to shave. that is all that matters... of course there is no reason why it cannot be beatiful, but that has nothing to do with the quality of the shave... look at e-bite if "pretty" mattered we would all be using zeepks (at least they look pretty on the bay)... i have not seen one up close.

Originally Posted by gssixgun

"Who is better looking, Brunettes Redheads, or Blonde's"

I'm confused, you mean you don't know the answer?

Originally Posted by gssixgun

try as many as possible...

Never mind, now it makes sense