Thread: Choice of Razor

Now that I have Introduced myself (another thread), I have now convinced myself that I need to try a straight shave.

So, what razor there are so many. Now I have been looking at suppliers on the Internet and as I do not want to spend a large amount on a first razor, I have seen a number of Wapi's for sale which appear reasonably priced.

So what is the general opinion of these razors they certainly look good, or should I be looking at something else instead.

All the best

John

Never tried a Wapi, but i hear they are.....functional. Don't forget to look in the classifieds. Check with the seller that it's shave ready. There's some fantastic blades in there & the guys are usually asking very reasonable prices.
Make sure you get yourself a strop too, but don't use it till after the 1st shave, with any shave ready razor.

Hi John,

A hearty welcome to SRP!! Please feel free to ask questions, and even more important,read.

As to a razor, a good place to start would be the classifieds. You will find many razors for under $75 that are shave ready. Yes, you can buy one of those sexy looking, shiney new straights at all the razor stores and vendors, and I'm not trying to discourage you from a new razor. I'm just trying to give you some alternatives to spending $100+. I started with a $40 razor frmo the classifieds and learned from it. Look to start with a 5/8 or 6/8 round point. A spike point will work too, and many of our members learned on a spike point. But, a round point can be a bit more forgiving to the beginner. I also highly getting a copy of Lynn's CD. It has over 3 hours of great information on most aspects of the straight razor, including shaving. A good investment that I still reference on occasion.

In addition to the razor you will needhe following as a minimum:

1. Strop (hanging is best, paddle will work)
2. Shave Soap/Cream (personal choice)
3. Brush (less than $10 to obscene prices)
4. Barbers hone (or some other polishing stone)

Good prices on NOS Wapis on the bay currently- $25 BIN. Probably not shave ready, but that can be quickly fixed by one of the honemeisters.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Straight-edge-razor-Wapienica-Sharp-as-the-Wapienica_W0QQitemZ220358045634QQcmdZViewItemQQptZ LH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item220358045634&_trksid=p 3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39% 3A1|240%3A1318|301%3A1|293%3A1|294%3A50

If you want a Wapi probably the easiest is to check with kenrup who sells them after honing in case he has them in stock and possibly honed, so you won't have to wait.
They're supposed to be good razors, but I haven't tried them personally.
Other than that and the even cheaper DoubleArrow razors, for under $100 you'll have to check the classifieds.