Thread: Newbie needing help!

Hello SRP.

I have a few questions regarding bying my first straight razor. Im very, very impressed by the japaneese style razors so my first question would be: Is it harder to learn to shave with one of those than a traditional folding straight razor? And in that case, why is it so? Is it because of the uneven grind? Or is it because they are so expensive and as a beginner you don't even know if you will stick with straight shaving or not?
I'm also going to travel for quite some time in 4 months and wonder if it's hard to keep the strop and razor in good condition during traveling?
I read someplace that the strop needs no oiling other than some rubbing it with your hands to keep in good shape, is that true? And will it work even if the shaving is done only 2-3 times a week?

Sorry to bother, happy for answers!

Vincent

Hi Vincent and welcome to one of the most informative and best forums in the inter-net.

I was thinking, like you, starting with a kamasori. I don't have one yet, so I can't help with that, but my feeling is that it would be as hard to learn. The only thing is that you would have more people helping you with a traditional straight, than with a kamasori on this forum. Having said that, I also know that you would not be on your own if you decide to go with the japanese razor. Thats my 2 cents. Double O

Vinza,
I don't have a Kamisori, but I think it would be harder for me to use. Thought about it once, laughed about it, and forgot about it! But, the reason for my post - here's a thread with an excellent video of a Kamisori shave. Enjoy!!! http://straightrazorpalace.com/shavi...ori-shave.html

Best Regards,

Howard

One thing I don't think I've seen mentioned yet is that with a Kamisori, you can't use the blade with either side away from your skin. In SirStropalot's video, he uses his one hand for the entire shave, and that's hard to do.

If you have never used a Straight Razor at all then you will never know whether the Kamisori is harder

For those of us that learned on a Western style razor they are harder to "Re-Learn" but once mastered they give incredible shaves...

Good point Glen

Thank you very much guys! @ Glen, thank you for confirming my thoughts!

One thing you could look into is a paddle strop. You wouldn't have to worry about having to find somewhere to hang it while traveling.