(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best men shaving razors & blades

There really is no "best" razor, what qualifies as best varies from person to person. The Edwin Jagger DE89 series is widely recommended. Personally I don't like the EJ DE89, and I find that the Parker 99R gives me much more comfortable shaves. I also find the Parker to be much more forgiving when you are just starting to learn to use a safety razor as well. Either razor wouldn't be a bad place to start looking, though.

In terms of soap, I would personally recommend you start out with one of these kits: Van Der Hagen Deluxe Shave Kit. You get a decent bowl, brush & soap for about $10. None of the stuff in the kit is the best of anything, but it is all fairly middle of the road and a great value for the price. Once you have gotten the hang of DE shaving you can upgrade your brush and soap as needed.

The Strop Shoppe also makes great soaps, and they have an incredibly reasonably priced sampler that is worth picking up. I also like Queen Charlotte Soaps quite a bit, and they also have a reasonably priced sampler.

You will need a pack of blades, right now I am enjoying Wilkinson Sword (which you might be able to get locally) but there are various blade samplers that are worth checking out.

• [West Coast Shaving](http://www.westcoastshaving.com/Sample-Packs_c_1.html}
  
• Shoebox Shave Shop
  
• Amazon
  
• BestShave.net
  
  There are tons of places that offer blade samplers if you look around. You will want to try a good number of blades so you can figure out which work best for you.
  
  Preshave treatments vary. Many people just wash their face in warm water and whatever soap they have on hand. Some people use a canned shave cream like Barbasol as a pre-shave soap (I have tried this and it works pretty good). MrGlo is a well respected preshave soap, but it can be hard to find and it is getting pricey due to its increasing rarity. If you are just starting out, you might wanna keep things simple and just use whatever soap you have on hand. You just want to make sure that you use a soap that won't dry your skin and you want your face slightly soap and wet before you apply your shave lather.
  
  After shaving you could follow up with Witch Hazel. Thayers is highly regarded, but you could use normal drug-store stuff as well, just look for low alcohol content. You might also want a styptic pencil which you should be able to get locally for $1-2. You might also consider an Alum Block instead of Witch Hazel.
  
  In terms of aftershave, there is a lot of variation bases on skin types and personal preference. I prefer Nivea for Men Post Shave Balm in the white bottle (not squeezable) as my skin tends to run a little dry and this has a nice gentle moisturizer. It also soothes razor burn quite well. However I know guys that swear by Every Man Jack products (they hurt me) so you will have to try things out to find what works for you. There are hundreds of specialty aftershaves people like, as well as all the common drugstore brands like Old Spice and Aqua Velva. If you have an aftershave that you are currently using, you might as well stick with it for now unless it really no longer meets your needs.
  
  I have a goatee and I have no problems whatsoever shaving around it. I don't know what to say beyond that, using a DE with a goatee is no more challenging than using a Mach3 in the same situation especially once you get your technique down.
  
  TL/DR
  
  My advice in everything is to start simple.
  
  
• Pick a good razor (The EJ & Parker I linked above are a good place to start)
  
• Buy the VDH kit I mention above. It is a good value and you should be able to find locally (Walmart, Target, CVS, most Grocery Stores all carry it).
  
• Buy a blade sampler.
  
• Buy a styptic (its better than toilette paper).
  
• Use whatever aftershave you were using before.
  
  Wait on everything else until you know if you really want to continue with DE shaving. This short list will get you started for about $40, and you can always pick up more stuff as you go along.

Thanks dude! I'm just super into skincare and have a tendency to fall down internet research rabbit holes hahaha. I bought this safety razor like two and a half years ago & I think it's a super great one to start with. Some people recommend using different blades than the ones that come with it, but it seems like more of an upgrade than a necessity. When you do need to buy more blades though, most people recommend trying a sampler set to figure out which brand of blades you like best. If you really feel like splurging you could go for a full set like this one (although tbh this might be a pretty good deal cost-per-item wise).

Shaving with a safety razor for the first time is definitely kind of harrowing, although I found that because I was super nervous I went real slowly & carefully, and consequently didn't have any problems. Just make sure you don't start with a setup that's described as "aggressive," since that indicates more of the blade is exposed & can cause irritation and more nicks/cuts if you don't know what you're doing.There are a lot of great tutorials on youtube or even in the reviews on the razor I linked here to help get you started!

Amazon is serious caveat emptor territory. There are some great values to be had if you know what you want and how much it should cost, but it's easy to get ripped off. Some of the stuff on there is outright junk, while other items are decent quality, but deceptively marketed and egregiously overpriced.

For example, one of the most popular razors is the $37 "Vikings Blade Chieftain". I use quotes because it's just a re-branded Baili, which you can get elsewhere for under $10.

As others have noted, your best bet for a first purchase is the basic starter kit from Maggard Razors. The Stirling starter kit is also good, with equivalent hardware and more software. But in my experience the soap included in the Maggard kit is significantly better, and I'll take quality over quantity any day of the week.

Either one is a "starter kit" only in the sense that it has everything you need to get started, not in the sense that you'll need to upgrade to an "intermediate" or "advanced" kit. The quality of the included gear is good enough to serve you well indefinitely.

You still have to choose your handle and your soap. As to the former, my preference is for something that's standard length (ie, the MR1 or MR11). As to the latter, Declaration Original is a no-brainer; the house-brand Lime and London Barbershop are a small step down but still better than 95% of the stuff out there.

While you're waiting for your starter kit to arrive, watch some videos about how to use it. Shaving with a safety razor is less intuitive than using an electric or a cartridge, so there's a bit of a learning curve. The faster you can get ahead of that curve, the sooner you'll be getting the results you (and more importantly, your girlfriend) want. I like the how-to video series by Michael Freedberg aka /u/Cadinsor - the information is pretty dead-on, and he's not shilling anything.

Anyhow, good luck. And welcome to the rabbit hole...

As someone explained, ingrown hairs happen when the hair doesn't actually break the surface of the skin, the most common cause for them is shaving with poor gear or incorrectly. Basically you shave and instead of cutting the hair, the razor pulls it slightly out from the hair follicle before actually cutting it. So when the hair grows back, if it's even slightly off from it's previous position, there's a good chance it won't break through the skin and end up as an ingrown hair.

Some people also have naturally very curly hair which then ends up causing much more ingrown hairs than most others. If they just happen even without shaving then the issue is a bit more difficult to manage and there's actually very little you can do about it. However if they happen after shaving, then solution do exist.

I'm going to detail some things you can do about your shaving routine that should help with ingrown hairs.

First of all, get yourself a double edge razor. If you want something cheap you can get one for about 3$ from Amazon, for something a bit better and more expensive the Edwin jagger DE89 is an excellent razor. There are literally hundreds of other options out there, you can often find DE razors from antique shops, flea markets or just your parents/grandparents place. And vintage razors are often extremely good if they are in decent shape.

Next you'll need some blades, I recommend buying a sampler pack again this one is about 11$. The reason you want a sample pack is because certain blades work better for certain people, so you can try them out and find the blade that fits you.

Now why on earth would you spend the whopping 15$ on technology from 70's when you have the new gilette 20 blade razor that is supersharp technology masterpiece? Mostly because it's not supersharp, well..It kinda is but it won't stay that way. The problem is that blades go dull, and when blades go dull they don't cut well, when they don't cut well they tug the hair and you end up with ingrown hairs. The easy solution is to change the cartridge often, but the cartridges are really goddamn expensive so you don't want to do that. DE blades? You can get a years supply for 20-30$, change it every 1-3 shaves and you can ensure the blade stays sharp and cuts well.

Someone also suggested exfoliating the skin, but you can kill two birds with one stone. You can get yourself a shaving brussh, something simple like the Omega 10077 it's a good, cheap starter brush it's a bit on the harder side so you can easily use it to exfoliate your skin prior to shaving. With that you can get a tube of Proraso shaving cream which is leaps and bounds better than the stuff you get from a supermarket in a can. Then to top it off get yourself some nice aftershave to calm your skin after shaving.

Now you'll also need to change your entire routine a bit. Slap a blade on your new razor, fill your sink up with some hot water and let your brush soak in the water. While your brush soaks rinse the areas you want to shave with plenty of hot water, this helps to open up the pores and soften your hair prior to shaving. If you want you can use some pre-shave to try and keep the irritation to your skin to minimum. Now you'll need to prep some lather, you can use a bowl, your hand or just do it right where you want to shave Here's a good guide on what you can do. The basic idea is to make sure your brush isn't exactly dripping wet but still wet, get about an almond size drop of the shave cream, then just mix up the cream like you'd be mixing eggs, add drops of water if needed. Once you have some lather, apply it in the places you want. You should use rather brisk circular motions, these help to prop your hair up and makes them easier to shave. Applying cream with hands usually has the bad effect of pushing your hair flat on your skin which makes shaving harder.

Now you have some lather so you'll need to shave. There are two main things to keep in mind with a DE: Blade angle and pressure.

Basically there is an ideal blade angle and finding one will take some time. However there is an entire wiki page dedicated to this. The second one is pressure, with a cartridge razor you ten dto press it against your skin, because the blades are dull and you try to shave as well as possible. With a DE, you should not put any pressure on your skin. The blade is sharp enough to cleanly cut the hair with zero pressure. Getting a hang of it is gonna take a week or so, but once you do you will consistently get better shaves. And be sure to rinse your blade often with the water you have in your sink, you don't want too much cream clogging the blade up.

The basic three pass DE shave includes one pass with the grain of the hair, another across the grain and the final pass is done very carefully against the grain and only if needed or you absolutely want to do it. Shaving against the grain gives you the best shave, but also irritates your skin more and is much more likely to end up with reddish skin or small cuts. So you fist shave everything with the grain, then rinse, apply lather, shave across the grain, rinse, and shave against the grain if needed.

Finally rinse with cool water, dry yourself up and apply aftershave. For other post-shave products you can get yourself an Alum bloc. It's a natural astringent that closes up most small razor nicks. After your final pass and after rinsing your face, grab the block and just massage it on the areas where you shaved, then rinse your face again. Another excellent product is witch hazel. It's again an all natural skin care product, it helps to cool, refresh and revitalize your skin. You can also use it daily even if you don't shave. Personally I apply witch hazel after I rinse off the alum. Then wait a few minutes and apply after shave.

Doing all that should help to decrease skin irritation and reduce ingrown hairs. And those products are just a dip in he ocean, there are hundreds of soaps, aftershaves, creams and all manner of other things you can get cheap and easy. Check out /r/wicked_edge for more.

If you HAVE to buy from Amazon.ca, the Parker 24C and the Edwin Jagger DE89 are available as /u/ketchuegrast mentioned. I'll put the links at the end of this post.

Italian Barber is in Canada and has some awesome choices for brushes, razors, and soaps, but they charge in US dollars. The products are for sure shipped from Canada however.

The Badger Shaving Co is based in Vancouver and payment is in Canadian dollars. I would say if your mom is hesitant, that could be your best chance to convince her to buy from a smaller merchant with better products. They have the Sterling synthetic brushes, a wide selection of artisan soaps, and some really good starter kits that include razors.

Mens Essentials is in Canada and payment is in Canadian dollars too... and they have a store if you live in that area, but it's a big country, so I'm guessing that's not going to be an option. ;)

If she still says Amazon or nothing you can always get your razor from Amazon and then pick up some Proraso soap from a Shopper's Drug Mart. Most malls also have House of Knives, and they sell Taylor of Old Bond St shaving cream for a good price. That might be easier for you to learn to lather with hard water too.

Feel free to PM me if your mom wants to email me about Badger Shaving and I'd be happy to answer any questions. A guy named Travis owns the company and he is awesome, so he would of course answer any questions as well.

Here are links to what I would say are the 2 best starter razors on Amazon.ca

http://www.amazon.ca/Edwin-Jagger-De89lbl-Double-Safety/dp/B002RBF1PO/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452910352&sr=8-1&keywords=DE89

http://www.amazon.ca/Parker--Three-Double-Safety-Razor/dp/B00IDDW4Y6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452909274&sr=8-1&keywords=parker+24C

Check out a Merkur safety razor (https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B000NL0T1G) and a sample blade pack from amazon.

Get an inexpensive shaving brush to start with to see how you like it, but eventually drop more money on a nice brush. Spend $10-$15 to start then expect to drop $50+ on a nice pure badger hair brush in a few months. The badger brush that I bought for like $70 I still have with me 4-5 years later (although admittedly I don't shave terribly often). Once you get that pricey brush, get a cheap plastic holder for it as well - keep the bristles pointing down instead of up - after using it leaving them facing upwards allows the water to settle around the base and weaken the glue holding in the bristles, ultimately destroying your expensive brush. Not good.

Check out Proraso soaps in a bowl - more convenient than paste or anything else, I've found. They have multiple types, here's my favorite as it makes my face a little tingly: https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18

If you prefer your own bowl, Proraso makes a paste and you can get a mug or bowl to mix it in - I found I preferred the ready-to-go stuff as it's faster and makes it more likely I'll shave regularly. :)

Then, after you've done all that and realized it's the best shave you've ever done and it's actually way more fun to shave than you ever thought it'd be, go for a straight razor. Don't do an actual blade, strop, and all that stuff right away. Instead, just go get a disposable straight razor blade holder and some blades: https://www.amazon.com/Equinox-Professional-Straight-Single-Blades/dp/B0118BJ0PA and learn how to use that thing. Then if you're like me and shave once every week or two (super lazy!) you can literally take weeks of beard off in a single pass with a straight razor and a fresh blade. I stopped here, personally, didn't go on to a full straight razor as they're pricey and you need to maintain it (oil, strop, etc) - likely something I'd let slide and ultimately wish I hadn't spent the money on...

Also, get a styptic pencil: https://www.amazon.com/Woltra-Styptic-Pencil-Small-0-25/dp/B000EGIEOE - it stings a bit when you cut yourself but almost immediately stops the bleeding. Unlike cuts/nicks with a multiblade razor, cuts with a safety razor or straight razor are actual "cuts" - and they bleed like cuts. Like, "blood trickling down your face" type cuts. They look worse than they are because you have water on your face and it thins the blood and it runs more, but it bleeds. This will stop that bleeding really fast at the expense of a little more pain right up front. I keep one handy.

I've turned several friends on to at least the safety razor. It's way more fun to shave that way, less expensive, and is better for your skin to boot. If you like a really close shave, too, you can get a better shave overall with a 3-pass technique (I don't do that, personally) as you get better. All sorts of options...

edit: mentioned the brush holder
edit2: styptic pencil

Tl;Dr OP delivers/is a faggot.

Haha, all right, I'll tell you everything I know. First, get these:

http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Safety/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346053195&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor

http://www.amazon.com/Tweezerman-2801-h-Mens-Shaving-Brush/dp/B000G647Y8/ref=pd_sim_hpc_1

http://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Razor-Blades/dp/B0032Q41LS/ref=sr_1_5?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1346053303&sr=1-5&keywords=Derby+double+edge

http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Street-Sandalwood-Shaving-Cream/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=pd_sim_hpc_13

http://www.amazon.com/Philips-Norelco-BodyGroom-BG2040-34/dp/B0037HP9OA/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1346053392&sr=8-1&keywords=Body+hair+trimmer

First, shampoo your groin hair with the strongest shampoo you can think off. The drier and fluffier the hair down there, the easier this is going to be.

Second, use the body hair trimmer while in the shower to get all the hair everywhere as short as you possibly can without making yourself uncomfortable. If you want to start above the dick, then start there to get accustomed to how the trimmer works then work your way to all the areas you wish to tame. I also shave my gouche etc, it's up to you. This will make the next part a lot easier.

Get some water and get it boiling hot. Then let it cool until you can touch it without seriously hurting yourself. The hotter the water the better but don't burn yourself. Now take the brush and soak it with the hot water. Then swish it around in the soap until you build up a nice foamy lather.

Lather that shit on there!

Here's the most time consuming part. You want to first go with the grain, shaving wherever you are first comfortable with. You want to use as small of an angle as you possibly can, I shave with the blade almost parallel to the skin. You do NOT push hard! It's a light grazing! LIGHT GRAZING! LIGHT! You use the weight of the head of the razor that is ALLLL the pressure you need! If it isn't enough pressure, increase the angle slightly.

EVERY time you pass by with the razor, you wash the blade in the water and apply new soap with the brush until you're satisfied. This keeps the soap and hair from clogging the blades and cutting something or ripping out a hair.

Always switch sides of the razor with each pass. This ensures near uniform wearing of the edges.

After you have passed by everything going with the grain, do the same against the grain. After you've done that, I go perpendicular to the grain for a grand total of three passes. Always cleaning the blade after every stroke, always re-soaping until you're satisfied.

After you've shaved everywhere, It's supposed to take a long time! Hurrying leads to awful bloody cuts! Then you LIGHTLY apply aftershave. It will always burn some, but not as much as it normally would! You whatever aftershave you have on hand.

For the balls, stretch out the skin as much as you possibly can and DO NOT APPLY PRESSURE! The same goes for the skin on your shaft if you have hair there.

Finally, baby powder that bitch! This will ensure you stay dry and clean and fresh all day!

At first, it will itch. There's no avoiding it. After you've shaved down there maybe 6 times, the itching will reduce until you don't notice it. ALWAYS USE A FRESH RAZOR! They're like less than 8 cents a piece, that's worth not having to worry about bleeding all over the inside of your pants!

And that's how I shave.

-------------------------------------------------------------
For those of you who don't have the time but still want to get the job done, here was an insightful post by reddit user: OftenStupid

Disclaimer: If you wish to ritualize some portion of your life, the above is wonderful and I can see how it would be very satisfying. However, If your goal is to shave your junk:

I'm with SuccumbedtoReddit, the guide reads like it was purposefully written for hipsters. What the fuck, a brush? a FUCKING BRUSH? Old-school decapitate-yourself razor?

Please, just get a decent razor like you would for say another part of your body that you do not wish to mutilate like say....ummm.. your face.

Use some warm water, you're in the fucking shower just turn the knob goddamn it.

Apply some shaving cream. No you won't make it, nor handcraft it nor pick it from the freshest cream-trees growing on the purest mountain tops. You'll go out and buy a can that reads "shaving cream" on the label. Apply cream. Fap, if the mood takes you there, as smearing warm creamy-like substances on your privates might do.

Shave. Apply some pressure. Shit, with most modern razors you can fucking hate-stab yourself with it without drawing blood. If you want to be cautious, start gently and proceed according to how much time you want to invest.

Wash it off, re-apply shaving cream, shave against the grain.

Trim the hair on the border between penis and belly, because no-one likes the "this area has been nuked from orbit" look.

Wash off, endure the itchiness for a day or two.

Play with yourself whenever and however you wish to, without the excuse that it's somehow a necessarry procedure.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

You may have more nicks if you rush TOO much, but any nicks you get will be tiny and won't hurt or bleed that much. The above is more or less what I do when I'm in a rush, minus the shaving cream.

It's been mentioned before, but I'll reiterate, as well as upvote honeyboots' comment.

Get a shave brush. Synthetic is fine to start, but eventually, you'll want to switch to badger hair. Softer, and yields better lather.

Get a double edge safety razor. I have a Merkur. It's a longer-than-standard handle, because I have large hands. It's heavy and feels great in my hand.

I use Derby Extra blades and they're great. I just switched blades, after ~3 months use, even after shaving every other day. Even if you have to replace them, they're only 15 cents a blade.

I recommend Muhle Pinsel cream. Kinda pricey, but better for your skin than can crap and you don't have to use as much, so a tube lasts longer. I'm still on the same tube I bought in December.

Let the weight of the razor do the work. It'll take you a couple of times to get the hang of it, as well as blade angle, but once you do, it's a great shave. Only better shave is a straight razor.

Also, shave in the shower, as has been said before. Your face stays more moist, which leads to a better shave. I don't use aftershave, but if you choose to, pick one that does not contain alcohol. It dried out your skin.

EDIT: If you get a double edge safety razor, don't get the butterfly hinge type. I've heard they are not as well made. Also, when finished, take the razor apart, rinse it, and dry it. Don't forget to dry it! Drying the blade makes it last much longer.

• Maggard Razors MR7 $19.95
  
• Omega 10049 boar brush $9.99
  
• Arko shaving stick pack of two $4.95
  
• Blade sampler, 5 brands 25 blades $5.25
  
  Total: $40.15 + shipping.
  
  But if that is too much then consider the below option
  
  
• Utopia razor +10 Derby blades $10.99
  
• Omega 10049 boar brush $9.75
  
• Arko shaving stick pack of two $4.55
  
• Tryablade, pick at least 3 blades each of these
  
• 3x Astra Superior Platinum
  
• 3x Personna Platinum (Israeli reds)
  
• 3x Feather New Hi-Stainless
  
• 3x Gillette 7 o'clock SharpEdge
  
• 3x Shark Super Stainless
  
  Total: $32.09
  
  I haven't really followed the Utopia razor, but the few threads that I did read had overall positive reviews. One complaint I did see was that some of the users had received a defective razor, bent baseplate for example.
  
  The Arko shaving stick can be used as it is, as an shaving stick, you rub the stick on your face and then use a wet brush to lather it. Shaving stick video. Or you can use it as an regular shaving soap. Cut the stick into smaller pieces with a knife and then press the pieces into a container of some sort. Load the brush over the soap puck and then move the loaded brush into a separate bowl, or directly to your face and start building the lather.
  
  This post has information about shaving brushes in general. Read the parts about boar shaving brushes and watch the lathering videos.
  
  -----------
  
  >In general Mantic59 and Geofatboy have good videos on youtube. There is also a book written by Leisureguy, it is available in all amazon sites.
  
  >This video from Geofatboy basically shows what DE shaving looks like. I also like this video It shows a full shave from start to finish. You don't really need to understand what he says in the beginning.
  
  >---------
  
  >The necessary items are; razor, brush, cream/soap, and blade sampler pack. This article by Leisureguy explains the blade issue very well. For aftershave you can use whatever you currently have, but if you don't have anything you can pick up Nivea sensitive aftershave balm from your local supermarket for $6.
  
  >There are preshave creams, oils, and soaps. These are not necessary, but some users do find them helpful. A cheap glycerin soap like the "clearly natural" or "whole foods 365" can be had for about 2-3 dollars. You use these soaps to wash your face before you start lathering.
  
  >For post shave there is; alum block, afershave splash, aftershave balm, moisturizing cream, moisturizing oil like jojoba oil, unrefined shea butter, and witch hazel. You pretty much have to try which works for you, but I'd start with a cheap aftershave balm like the Nivea sensitive that I mentioned (if you get satisfactory results with it you don't have to explore the other options unless you want to).
  
  >You don't need a shaving stand. If you like how they look you can use/get one, but that's about it. After you are done shaving, rinse the brush well under the running water from the tap, shake out the excess water, gently brush the brush against a towel, stand it on its base out in the open where it can air dry. Mantic59 - Cleaning a shaving brush video.
  
  >For bowl lathering you can use any small sized bowl you have in your house. Approximately 3 inches deep and 5-6 inches in diameter would be a good size. You can also find something from your local supermarket for couple of dollars. Alternatively you can face lather which removes the need for a bowl.
  

One of the guys at Groomatorium posts here a lot and while his site sells razors from five bucks to two hundred...his favorite razor as a daily driver is the same brand and similar style as yours, but in the three piece. What that means is that good design matters a lot more than the price tag.

Dorco chose to use the Baili under their own name, as many others do, because it's an incredible value. Other less scrupulous companies sell the same razor as yours for far more money.

If you like it, it's good! :-) While it's fun to get artisan things and handmade art--and I'm not going to argue, machined doohickies are oh-so-satisfying in the hand--you can shave perfectly with any number of really sweet sub $20 razors.

I agree. I was in the same position as you are about 2 years ago. I HATED shaving. And believe me when I say I HATED shaving lol. I watched this video and got intrigued. Soon after that I bought my first double edge razor. Before it even came, I had already purchased some Wilkinson, some Proraso shave soap, and an Omega Boar Brush. About a week before I even got my razor I was already using the brush, and the soap to make lather and shaving with it. I loved it. When my razor came in I fell in love with wet shaving. I could go further in depth, but I think you get the idea. It's a passion instead of a chore by now and it's well worth it. I understand your apprehension, but I promise you that with the right start you'll not regret it. I run a Wet Shaving Group on Google+, and if you look up /r/wickededge you will find ALL the help you need to get a good starter set and be well on your way. Everyone in these groups, and the many other groups available, are great. My suggestion for your neck, take your time, go light on your neck and put less pressure and your irritation will go away. Mine did and I used to have a full face cloth full of blood after every shave. I hope this helped :), and feel free to friend me if you want a little additional help :).

I would recommend the Parker 24C over your initial choice. Cheaper, more comfortable, more efficient---though the EJ itself is good.

Given your description of the beard, the open-comb may help---and in any event for your second razor I would recommend a slant.

I'd skip the Van Der Hagen, both brush and soap. For a brush, I recommend Omega S-Series brushes, and you can buy one of these from a variety of vendors.

For a soap, I would recommend Latha. For a shaving cream, J.M. Fraser shaving cream is really good and also really economical: $15 for a 1-lb tub.

Read this post on blades. Try 2-3 brands from your sampler pack and then use the best of those exclusively for a couple of months. (To stick to the same brand for two months, you will have to buy a couple of packs of that brand so that you can replace blades as they become dull in use.) By keeping the brand of blade constant, variation from shave to shave is (probably) due to prep and technique, so you can focus more on perfecting those by not changing the razor or brand of blade. Also, after two months, you'll really know what that brand of blade feels like so when you try a new brand the differences are highlighted.

After the two months, start exploring: every 6-8 weeks, try a new brand. If it's better, it becomes your regular brand---the one you use daily. If it's not, return to your regular brand for another 6-8 weeks. This gives you a break (shaving with a brand that's good for you) and also reminds you of what a good shave is like.

Every now and then most will stumble upon a brand that takes their shave to a new level---cf. in Wizard of Oz, where everything became technicolor.

Take care to avoid the four most common mistakes cartridge shavers make when switching to a DE razor.

Agreed! But I'm partial to BlueBird blades... a little sharper and last a little longer than Shark (which are also good) but they won't shave your face off like you can with Feather blades... and a little cheaper too!

My razor is a Parker 91R Super Heavyweight (I like it)... and it's inexpensive.

And then for my shave cream I use Taylor of Old Bond Street... a little goes a very long way. The stuff is great.

A good badger shave brush and a shave mug.... maybe some pre-shave oil if you really want to take your time. And you got yourself a shave that is far closer and more comfortable than an expensive as hell cheaply-made multi-bladed razor...

Sure upfront costs are slightly higher, but in the long run you save tons of money... plus you get a better shave. What's not to love?

As someone who just switched from cartridge razors about a month ago:

>The first is it takes a lot more skill and effort to use the safety razor.

I couldn't disagree more. I was terrified at first, and was almost shocked at how easy it was to pick up. I nicked myself once, the very first time - and haven't seriously since. And really, that's why god invented styptic pencils.

>With the safety I might be able to shave the time down to 15 but it's still with much greater effort.

...I don't know how you're shaving that it takes you 15 minutes. I mean, if you're using a brush and everything - yeah, probably - but I don't currently have the money to invest in one, so I've been using regular old shaving cream from a can (I know, blasphemy. I'm sure I'll switch eventually - but seriously, it works just fine.)
You have to make shorter strokes than you would with a cartridge razor, but that's it. It takes maybe a minute longer - but not significantly so, or I wouldn't do it. ~5-7 minutes, max.

>Third thing is cutting yourself is more common but it's not just easier to do, you can also actually leave a scar if you haphazardly use it on your face or rush.

Again, I was terrified of this, and find this to be incredibly misleading. You can nick yourself, but you honestly would have to try pretty damn hard to cut yourself any worse than you could with a cartridge razor. Maybe if you, like, sliced it horizontally across your cheek or something, but why would you do that?

In addition, while it does have a higher intro price - from that point on, your blades are dirt cheap. I mean, seriously cheap. Like, 100 blades for ~$15 cheap, though when first starting, you should spend a little more and get a variety pack to see what blades work best for you. Even still, it pays for itself inside a month or two.

For anyone looking to switch - this is the one /r/wicked_edge recommended me, and I've loved it so far. I'd never switch back, because I honestly haven't found a single downside. Blades are cheap, shaving is quick and close, and most importantly to me - my face doesn't constantly hurt anymore. If you're prone to razor burn, a safety razor will change your life.

Razors - A lot of women actually use men's razors for legs and underarms. This is what I use! They are less expensive and do the same exact job. No need to pay the pink tax. Personally, I use these

Moisturizer - I use Aveeno lotions. I can't handle smells and Aveeno is usually scentless.

Nail care - I am currently trying to take better care of my nails so they don't CHIP ALL THE TIME. Cuticle butter at night, and cuticle oil alllll throughout the day.

Eyebrow care - I have very bushy brows. Even though a bold brow is in right now, if I let mine go natural, it is like 2 fuzzy caterpillars on my brow bone. Get a more expensive pair of tweezers, trust me. The cheap ones will struggle grasping the hairs. Eyebrow razors to get the edges and help trim everything up]

Face wash - I have really good skin - super lucky, I know. I just use a gentle face wash and that is it.

I don't mean to insult you, but you sound like someone with a thin beard. You use bargain brand blades and you can shave in under 10 minutes using your safety razor with just cream for lubrication. I remember when I was 12, I had patchy long, uneven side burns that went down most of my face. I used to shave with nothing but water and a disposable bic blade. Eventually when I was 13 I tried doing what I always did on my slightly thicker not as whispy and thicker and less patchy facial hair and I learned that I needed water.

I use feather blades because everything else I used was way too damn dull to cut through my beard and the multiple strokes lead to really long times in the bathroom shaving or irritation, razor burn, and blood(merkurs weren't so bad, but I tried shaving with an astra platinum like I did one of my feathers and jesus did I regret it). I am careful and I work closely but my hairs are not only thick but they are tricky. Shaving my face is like mowing a lawn full of dandilions. You think you ran them over but then you look behind you and they just pop right up again forcing you to come at them again. My tricky beard is actually tamed fairly easily with a fresh shick quatro titanium, but fresh was just 2 or 3 shaves so in a week I'd be out of it and recharge packs are about $10 for four so I'd keep the blades long after the recommended use time. The safety razor ravers made me expect something totally different. I never got this mythical closer shave, I already got about as close as I currently get with my feathers with my old shick quatro, but what I did find was that getting that same level of closeness took more time and effort to achieve on my face because these things require way more precision.

As for the scars, I've noticed a lot more ice pick marking than before. These things do cut a little deeper than modern razors especially if you have minute amounts of acne. I don't cut myself anymore than I did with my old razor and it's usually not spots that bleed that get this unique scaring. I can't say I know what it is, but I never had icepick marks on some parts of my face that have them now. Seeing as how I've been shaving my entire teenage life, I made it through the major acne years pretty unscathed I find it odd that at 22 I'm seeing some scaring and the only change I've made is the blade.

As for the price again, yes it is a lot more frugal to use, that is why I use it and I've even gotten friends into it, but the fact of the matter is nobody seems to get into the short comings of safety razors when they recommend it. Personally I need to use feathers because the cheaper ones tend to not be sharp enough for my beard and unfortunately that brings the price at a still impressive but much less so 30 for $15.45. Still I love it because I don't have to worry about saving it I can just throw the blade out when it gets dull and it's still cheaper than the quatro by a significant margin. With that said though someone needs to point out that the grass isn't really much greener over on the safety razor side of the fence, it's just cheaper.

interesting. i agree on the price thing - mach 3's are ridiculously overpriced - but the safety razors leave me bleeding quite a bit yet paradoxically the shave isn't quite as close. which blades have you had the best luck with? i've tried the derby's and the merkur's and the latter seem to perform much better on my face, though the former seem to stay sharp longer.

did you try normal gel with your safety razors and then switch to soap/brush? i tried the soap/brush thing long ago but didn't detect any difference. i only recently switched to the safety razor.

I'll try and see if I can purchase from Italian Barber but I'd like to get as much stuff from Amazon if possible, otherwise I'll look to local malls etc. for the soap.

Out of these three (Edwin Jagger De89bl, Parker 26C, Parker 24c) what would you recommend for someone that'd like a really, really close shave but with sensitive skin?

I actually saw some of the horse-hair brushes but they're a little on the pricier side for my liking, which is why I was looking at synthetic brushes. Are there any you could recommend at ~$20 CAD? I know I'm asking for a lot so bear with me.

Thanks a lot :)

Not OP, but I use Israeli Crystals. About $15 shipped for a pack of 100 and work better for me than even the crazy expensive Feathers.

But if you're just trying to get into it, I'd get a sampler pack from a safety razor site and try a bunch of different ones til you find what you like.

Also make sure you get a decent brush (badger or a good synthetic) and good shaving cream. That's just as important as the blade and razor. I love Taylor's of Old Bond Street and it runs about $15 a tub.

1. Aveda Botanical Kinetics™ Hydrating Lotion - Face lotion, applied to face and mustache after shower.

2. Musgo Real Glycerine Lime Soap, MR GLO - Face soap, used before each shave.

3. Proraso Shaving Soap with Eucalyptus Oil and Menthol - Shave soap, whipped up then applied to face for shaving.

4. Proraso Pre and Post Shave Cream - Pre/Post shave cream, massaged into face after washing face with MR GLO. Massaged into face again after shave.

5. Proraso Aftershave Lotion - Aftershave, applied to face either after shave or after shower. My wife likes the smell of this.

6. TABAC ORIGINAL For Men By MAURER & WIRTZ Deodorant Stick - Deodorant, masculine scent of lavender, citrus, and warm florals.

7. Colonel Conk Evernice Model 775 Chrome Safety Razor Stand - Stand, holds DE razor and brush.

8. Merkur Model 180 Long Handled Safety Razor - DE Razor, great weight and balance used to shave face.

9. Tweezerman Men's Shaving Brush - So, so brush used for applying shave soap. Would like a better brush someday.

10. Feather Hi-Stainless Platinum Double Edge Razor Blades - Razors for DE, my favorite so far.

11. Tweezerman His Moustache Scissors with Comb - Scissors and comb, after movember I decided to keep the mustache so these items help maintain its appearance.

12. Comb - Comb, used for combing hair before and after shower.

13. Aveda Men Pure-Formance™ Grooming Clay - Hair product, used after shower with hair wet or dry. Hair looks natural but styled. I'll use pomade if I want the appearance of having a more polished look.

14. Large Stainless Steel Shaving Soap Bowl from Super Safety Razors - Mug, I'd rather have a porcelain mug for class but this does the trick. I use it to soak my brush and razor before each shave. I also use it for creams when not using Proraso.

was scrolling down just to find this comment. switching to a safety razor changed my life for the better!

guys; seriously, try using a safety razor. you get a much better shave, and a much cheaper shave as well. you can get sample packs and figure out which blade works best for you too.

a good safety razor only costs $35 or so and will last a lifetime. once you figure out the brand of razor you prefer, you can get several years supply of those as well for very, very cheap.

I got these:

Merkur Long-Handled Safety Razor ($32.70)

Razor Blade Sampler Pack ($6.25)

Liners: T-Outliner or Slimline Pro Li. Nothing else is even worth a look.

Adjustable: Wahl 5-Star Seniors (or Sterling -- same motor). Andis Masters. For cordless, the Wahl Magic Clip/Sterling.

Detachable blade: Oster 76 or Oster Model 10. For cordless, Andis Supra or Andis BRG

Shears: For just starting out, Equinox shears on Amazon. $15 and they're great. For much later, there are too many to name. All preference. Have to go somewhere and feel them out.

Straight blade: Same as shears. Any $10 cutthroat with decent reviews will suffice. All depends on if you like the snap lock blade holder (much better, IMO) than the slide in type. I like a natural handle (black or wood), but I've used this one for years (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0118BJ0PA?psc=1) and it's really good. The handle loosens over time, however, and gets annoying. But for $12, you can't really complain.

Good luck and have fun. I never touched a pair of clippers until September of last year. I'm not done with school and making excellent money. Don't let any distractors get in your way. Just focus and do work.

The one I bought is the Merkur 34C, it is pricy and if you have larger hands. The Merku4 34C will feel small. Select the 38C, as it has a longer handle.

The other one I have seen people recommend it the Edwing Jagger DE89lbl. I think either one will work fine. If you can get to a House of Knives or a Tommy gun's I think they will have them on display so you can handle them.

Please note, unlike your normal cartridge razors, these razors are top heavy. It takes a bit of practice to be able to shave well, quickly and not cut yourself. Since the weight is at the top, you need less overall pressure to shave. Also I would really recommend that you sign up for one of those razor blade clubs, that way you have a large selection of blades to try. Not all razor blades are the same. I use feather because I read they are really good but aggressive blades. I had no idea what that meant. It just means you gotta be careful. My SO kept going "i see you cut yourself again" for a good 3 months. While I learned how to shave with both the razor and the blade combination. The razor itself will come with a blade, and the others you will have to try on your own. Looking back, I should have signed up for a "gift box" of blades to try a couple of brands instead of just going "I'll just use Feather because the internet said it was good."

Good Luck.

Also not using alcohol based aftershave and shaving foam has been great for my face. I use shaving soap, and some baby oil.

Honestly I'd recommend a decent brush, a de, soap and blades. Exfoliation in general is good, moisturizing in general is good, and witch hazel feels kinda amazing afterward. I've never used a styptic (I don't bleed that badly), pre-shave oils and such seem to not work as well as shaving after a shower, and I've never noticed a great difference from any after shave besides witch hazel.

You should be able to find more feminine scented (or unscented) recommended soaps from /r/ladyshavers. Also I don't know that I'd recommend it on your face but lady's shave gel (or any of the canned stuff) also works fine with a de. So if you just want to start out on the real cheap you can skip the brush and the soap and just get stuff in a can. Basically for a razor(just about any of these should do, I'd stay away from slant types at first) you're looking at $15-20, and blades (best to start with a variety as everyone had different skin/razor preferences) $10, soap maybe $12, and a good brush $15-20. But the razor with a little care will outlive you, the brush should last many years. Soap a few months and blades a few shaves each and they're only like $.20 a pop anyway. Witch hazel ~$9 and probably will last about a year. Hope this wasn't too overwhelming and gives you a good idea of how to get started.

Hair that grows back is always going to be prickly because it's so short. Only way to avoid that would be laser treatment.

Best way (imho) to avoid razor burn is to use good products.

I shave with a safety razor and use a nice shaving cream. You'll need a shaving brush and a small shaving bowl as well. I change the blades frequently (available online or at drug stores) and pretty much every time before I do my legs.

I will never go back to disposable razors and canned shaving cream. I had to use both on vacation recently and it gave me the shittiest shave and worst razor burn.

Now shaving for me is less of a chore and more like a mini spa trip. :]

Full Disclosure: using a safety razor takes a little practice and I promise you will nick yourself a few times before you get it right. Be patient, it's totally worth it.

edit: I also find this helps with razor burn, bumps, and ingrown hairs: I exfoliate, shave, exfoliate (again), towel dry, use moisturizer.

This will leave your skin soft and smooth and also helps prevent bumps! :)

Good luck!

You use the same blades for de and shavette. a shavette just uses half of a de blade so before you pull it out of the wrapper you bend it in half and it will snap in half. now you have 2 blades for your shavette. The blades you linked are just derby blades they already snapp in half for you. So any sampler pack of de razor blades is what you need which is why i linked that search.

Here is a specific pack that is inexpensive but you only get one of each blade (2 blades for a shavette tho). Here is another pack that is more expensive but comes with whole packages of some very popular blades.

The almond is my favorite. hope you enjoy it.

the shavette does take a while to get the hang of so be prepared that it may take a month or so to really get comfortable with it.

Many will recommend Astra for a great shave. Astra is my lowest ranked blade thus far. Others will recommend Feathers. My best friend that I talk wet shaving with says they one of his worst blades.

The blade has a large YMMV factor. Every face has different contours, oils, dryness, hair strength, etc. The best way to get to your blade is through sample packs.

Gillette Silver Blue is in my top 3. It is recommended, but not generally as valued as much as I do. The fact that you bought a variety pack is all you need. I would get more than 4 brands such as this one from Amazon. I keep a journal to write about each blade and make sure there were at least two of each make and model (brand and blade?) so I could space out their testing. Best of luck!

I shave with a top of the line Edwin Jagger 89L that cost me something like $30 (& $10 for Badger brush and soap) due to the fact i have a dense wiry beard that goes in every direction that normal cartridge/disposable/electric shavers won't shift, especially on the neck area.

200 Derby blades (each giving 4 shaves on average), used every other day for $15 - gives me 5 years worth of blades!
All purchased from Amazon


Recently i forgot my shaving kit on a vacation trip, so I bought a cheapo Gilette double edged razor for $5, a tube of Ingram shaving Lather for $2.50 and a Boarbristle shaving brush for another $3) at a local drugstore.

I had an unopened pack of Derby blades in my washbag, so i used them with the Gilette.

The results were as good, if not better than the top of the range luxury DE blade kit.

So it's down to shaving technique and blade quality - the cheapo razor, lather and brush (lather whipped up in a wide cappuccino mug)


If you're really budget conscious, and don't like the plasticky feel of the Gillette razor, try the Egyptian made Lord LP 8122 for around $5-10. This is a great metal razor, comparable to the high-end european metal EJ/Merkur models. The finish may not be as perfect as the chromed EJ/Merkur models, but that's only cosmetic and won't affect the performance


Derby or Astra are excellent budget razor blades.
I'd recommend badgerhair brushes over boar-hair, as it feels a lot nicer and doesn't get bent out of shape. Still whips up and applies the lather just as well.

For an outlay of $30, you too could be shaving with no additional costs for 2 years or more, depending on your beard growth.
($5 Lord LP 8122 + $15 Derby blades + $2.50 tube shaving soap + $5 badger-hair brush + $2 cappuccino mug)

I myself am not a fan of parker butterflys. I had one and it had just poor all around construction. It worked, but was not overly enjoyable. Also failed after like 2-3 years (the metal inside that controls the butterfly actions is like cheap pot metal).

I would suggest the similarly priced Edwin Jaggers or possibly a Merkur.

Also, combo blade packs are totally the way to go. I was crazy polarized on blades that I sampled. I personally settled with Astra and Feather, but that is just my preference. Sharks were ok, but IMO there are better blades.

Edit: Also, for $13 [this] (http://www.amazon.com/Tweezerman-2801-h-Mens-Shaving-Brush/dp/B000G647Y8/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1382624828&sr=1-1&keywords=tweezerman+shaving+brush) shaving brush is amazing. I bought it as a throwaway for a trip I was taking to Thailand. I ended up keeping it as a travel brush. Works fairly well, sheds a little bit. Still, surprisingly good for the price. I have $60 brushes but still don't mind using the Tweezerman.

Also, I personally don't use alum; I almost never cut myself. I shave about ever 2 days (more and I get mild irritation), I stay away from aftershaves with lots of alcohol in them, use a good glycerine soap, and if you need to there are a plethora of face moisturizers out there.

If you search Amazon for "double edge safety razor blade variety pack" you will get quite a few options. This is what I did six years ago. 3/4 of the way through the pack I realized I had a winner Crystal "SUPER +" Stainless Steel Platinum Coated Double Edge Safety Razor Blades A.K.A Israeli Personnas.

Being able to try many different blades was great. I'm not second guessing - I know what I like.

Wow thanks for the advice. I will take a look when k get the chance later tonight.

I bought this razor, because I can return it if I didn't like it:

VIKINGS BLADE Double Edge Safety Razor + 5 Swedish Platinum Super Blades, Heavy Duty, 100% Pure Raw Manliness https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011L8WJIA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_awd_2T8NwbJBS4D77

So far I have liked my first shave with it, I just have to practice on shaving my neck. My wife loves how smooth my face feels when compared to my Gillette Mach 3s.

DE's are quicker, primarily because you never have to strop. Right now the best deal in DE's is the 102 slant head for $45, and the Utopia Razor for $10 (use the handle for the 102 slant head)

For soaps and aftershave, head over to http://www.barristerandmann.com/. He makes great products. Be aware that most of the scents are rich, classic, and a bit dark, so if prefer bright modern scents you may want to try something else.

I just got a plisson brush for $30 and think it's great - YMMV.

If you want one, and fast, get the Parker 24c - with Prime shipping, you can get it in two days.

Damn fine razor from what I've heard, universally great reviews with notes from Leisureguy (and others) stating that it's the go-to recommendation for a first razor, being both very comfortable and very efficient.

Though if you can wait a bit, might be better to order from Maggard Razors, since supporting small business is always a great idea, and they won't let you down in terms of customer service or product quality.

What razor blades are you using? Different people have different skin and hair types, and find that different blades work for them. If you're cutting up your face like that, maybe try a different brand of blade. I'd suggest getting a sampler pack so that you can try a bunch and figure out which ones work the best for your skin.

For example: http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349875&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor+sample+pack

It took me a bit of practice and a bunch of razors to get it right, since some tugged on my skin and others were too sharp (hello nick city). My favorite is Blue Bird, they work perfectly for me. Skin prep is really important too! I use Arko shave sticks and an Ecotools brush. The shave sticks lather nicely and last forever (one stick lasted me about 4 months of shaving my legs).

http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Stick-White-Count/dp/B000VAWZ2U/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349852&sr=8-2&keywords=arko+shave+stick

http://www.amazon.com/Ecotools-Bamboo-Finishing-Kabuki-Pounds/dp/B004W17O7A/ref=sr_1_21?ie=UTF8&qid=1422349923&sr=8-21&keywords=ecotools+brush

Sounds like the Hawk should do the trick, i sure do enjoy efficient razors and the SE blades sound really promising. I was debating on the Hawk or a Feather straight that uses SE blades but just went with the Hawk since its easier and never used a straight and wanted to get one before it goes out of stock. I actually really like the stock metal handle that comes with the Rapira, reminds me of the Fatip Retro handle somewhat, for my plastic handle one i use the handle from the RR Old Type since it was crazy mild.

Just curious do you think one of these would be worth getting to learn how to use? Never used a straight but the idea of choosing the angle completely seems nice. https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Folding-Handle-Razor-Black/dp/B008CF6KMC

Its funny that I have the exact same set up as you. Same blade and same brush... The blades are ridiculously cheap. I use Derby's which are even cheaper (http://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Stainless-Double-Blades/dp/B0013RZ2ZM). Pretty close shave and i can exchange the blades as soon as I sense any dulling.

I switched mostly because I was getting ingrown hairs from my cartridge. It's pretty common as we tend to push with the cartridge. My father never taught me how to shave with a safety razor so like most people, I taught myself. Youtube is an awesome place to start. This guy
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ufG1dPmVo8Q) taught me everything, and as a resource, he is amazing. He is the only person I ever private messaged on Youtube to thank.

lol

If I was the other guy I wouldn't give 2 shits about razor burn on your ass. I mean if anything I'd think to myself "at least he's trying".

I'll also suggest (like the good fedora wearing /r/wicked_edge browser that I am) to check out a safety razor.

something like this:

http://www.amazon.com/Parker-99R-Handle-HEAVYWEIGHT-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1397576216&sr=8-5&keywords=safety+razor

Since I switched I don't get razor burn no matter where I shave.

>lol

>If I was the other guy I wouldn't give 2 shits about razor burn on your ass. I mean if anything I'd think to myself "at least he's trying".

>I'll also suggest (like the good fedora wearing /r/wicked_edge browser that I am) to check out a safety razor.

>something like this:

>http://www.amazon.com/Parker-99R-Handle-HEAVYWEIGHT-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1397576216&sr=8-5&keywords=safety+razor

>FOR ME, Since I switched I don't get razor burn no matter where I shave.

>I'm sure there is actual science and reason behind it, but FOR ME it's just incredibly smooth compared to a high-end disposable. FOR ME, I used to get it really really bad on MY neck. Like 6 hours after I shaved FOR ME it would be red with razor burn no matter what. I tried shaving in different directions, slowing down, aftershave. Nothing worked FOR ME. So I check out the safety razor and poof, all MY razor burn problems are gone.
FOR ME, If I really rush MY shave then I will often get little nicks but if I go at a leisurely pace and don't shave like a neanderthal then it looks great and it's dirt cheap compared to nice disposables.
FOR ME, I can shave every other day for 6 months with a brand new blade every time for only ~10-15$
http://www.amazon.com/Astra-Superior-Premium-Platinum-Double/dp/B001QY8QXM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1397576947&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor+blades[1]
As for shaving on MY body, I will usually hack it down with an electric razor first, like a body groomer. Then I will just run the safety razor over the area dry. It might not be the best or smartest way but it works great FOR ME. I don't get razor burn and I don't even use a shave cream or anything. I could never do that with a disposable, even with lotion/shave cream/etc.
As for why, MY uneducated opinion is that I have 1 really sharp blade, not 5 sort of sharp (eventually dull) blades. 1 blade irritates MY SKIN less than 5 :D. That's MY broscience opinion.
Check out the /r/wicked_edge[2] wiki for some info
http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/wiki/index#wiki_will_this_help.3F

*Edited my post just in case OP thought I was giving peer reviewed evidence like some dumb fucks around here.

I use Eagle Creek Pack It Quick Trip Toiletry Organizer, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00F9S8YTM/ It packs well for travel and has a mesh side where I can store a damp brush. This is big enough to carry a puck in a ~5oz container, bottle of aftershave, bottle of cologne, brush, razor in case, alum block, toothbrush, nail clippers, comb, and a small jar of pomade.

For protecting the DE, I have this Parker Safety Razor's Felt Lined Genuine Leather Double Edge Safety Razor Protective/Travel Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001O8NCI4/ which I highly recommend. It fits a Fat Boy and other similarly sized DE's.

For storing blades, I use two Altoids minis tins. One for new blades, the other for used. I have a blade bank that I keep at home to properly dispose of the blades.

The only thing I haven't quite solved is a bowl for lathering. I don't like the face lather as it screws up my face making it red. So I either make it on my hand, of find a glass, mug, or bowl at my hotel. I'd love to hear ideas to travel with a bowl.

I've yet to fly with this setup. I plan to just throw a disposable in there and empty the DE and Altoids tins. Then pray that I can find a pharmacy that sells DE blades at my destination.

Good luck and safe travels!

Merkur razors are great, but personally I use Derby blades which work great for me. Also any of the Kiss My Face shaving creams smell great and work well normally or with a brush/mug.

He went way expensive and turned it into a hobby (nothing wrong with that).


I started with a $10 razor handle and started with a $15 mug/soap/brush from Amazon and that worked just fine for about a year. Then, the cheap razor broke and I bought one for $30 and the brush started losing hair, so I bought a replacement for $7 [it was on sale]. Shave soap is like $3 a puck and lasts a year or more.


I've been using the new razor and brush for about 2 years now. The mug I got in the cheap set I still use as well.


I pay ~$10 for 100 blades and change it every week on average (which is actually probably wasteful of me). From November until ~March or April, I let the beard grow. Those 100 blades last me around a year and a half (give or take a few weeks).


So, if you went for better equipment from the start, it'd be something like:

$30 razor ... not the one I use, but nice ... you can go a lot cheaper than this for a quality one as well.

$15 brush [like I said, mine was way cheaper, currently $15 on amazon

$15 blades [this is middle of the ground, some people spend as little as little as $8 for 100 blades, the brand I like is ~$10]

$10 mug/soap/cheap brush combo

= $70 for the first year and you've got an extra brush.


Realistically, that's around what some would spend for a year of shaving with a normal razor from Gillette. For some, it would be a bit more and for some it would be less. For me, I think it was around $40 worth of cartridges a year when I used the Gillette 5-blade.

But, the second year of shaving, would only cost around ... well, nothing since you'll likely have right around a years worth of blades left and won't actually need to buy anything at all other than maybe some shave soap.

You could buy a double edge safety razor from Amazon and then buy a sample of different razors to see which ones suit you.
I bought my razors last July and still have a bunch. They tend to last forever and are dirt cheap.
I didnt get this razor but its similar with pretty good reviews.
WEISHI Nostalgic Long Handle Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PKHIDRA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_.csWCbC1NEWSB

These are the sample razors I mentioned
Double Edge Razor Blade Sample Pack (2x each) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N6EEZ60/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_OfsWCbBJFFJSK

The samples didnt last long but I found the one I liked ordered them and have had them since july.

Years ago (around 2005), I fell for the Gillette M3 Power razor. After my first shave, I felt so ripped off. Plus, blades were expensive.

I researched safety razors and made the switch to a Merkur razor, Derby blades, Trumper shaving soap, and a 100% badger brush. I haven’t looked back. Yes, I paid a lot for my razor (and I would go with a more traditional one today if I could redo it). I have 100 blades for $9, which will last me over 2 years. I’ve been using the same soap since 2012. And I replace the brush whenever it feels like it needs to be replaced.

It does take a little while in getting used to, but it took me only a couple of weeks to get the swing of it. And with shaving soap, it won’t lather like the stuff in an aerosol can. But you don’t need lather. All you need is enough of a film to glide the blades over the skin to trim the whiskers.

I’d also recommend a travel case for the razor. That will protect the blades in transit. And I’d get a nick stick. I’ve been wet shaving with a safety razor for nearly 15 years, and an occasional nick does happen.

Very cool. I shave maybe once every 3 days and want to try a DE razor asap! It's something I've always thought would be awesome but always thought it was just a fad with no benefits. I can see that I have been living under a rock!

Would this be a good beginner razor?

VIKINGS BLADE The Chieftain Safety Razor + 5 Swedish Platinum Super Blades + Travel Case https://www.amazon.com/dp/B011L8WJIA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_vPDhzbS29RN5M

Shark blades make me feel like I'm using an actual shark to shave my face.

In a year of using a DE razor, I have found that my favorite blades are http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002CE3518/ref=wms_ohs_product
Crystal Super Platinums. I have really sensitive skin, and have had great results from these. My second choice is the Astra Superior Platinum.

Not sure if the price is a bargain or not offhand, but that is a great shavette by all accounts. It uses the proprietary Feather Artist club blades and I think the general sense is that it is much closer to a real straight edge razor experience than the shavettes that use DE blades. Also, there is the SS model by Feather which isn't as high a quality of build but is still great and will give you a similar experience...it's cheap on amazon 65 bucks... https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Folding-Handle-Razor-Black/dp/B008CF6KMC?th=1

>Headbands and bandanas are amazing if you want to look like a basketball player or Axl Rose.

Cool? That's your opinion, just like my opinion is that a top-knot makes you look silly. I'll take both of those over the latter.

>Also, you said dozens of different ways. I only see 7 things linked here with a few duplicates.

Lmao. That's what you want to nitpick about? The goal is keeping hair out of your eyes, not fancy hairstyles:

http://f.tqn.com/y/menshair/1/S/2/1/-/-/bald5.jpg

https://www.amazon.com/Sexy-Hair-Control-Maniac-Shine/dp/B00GYGKQTY/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1499281267&sr=8-2&keywords=hair+control

https://www.amazon.com/xtava-Pinup-Hair-Clips-Professional/dp/B01LXCL45M/ref=sr_1_11_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1499281288&sr=1-11&keywords=hair+clips

https://www.amazon.com/Soft-Style-Butterfly-Clamps-Assorted/dp/B000X20Y4C/ref=sr_1_8_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1499281288&sr=1-8&keywords=hair+clips

https://www.amazon.com/Toboggan-Timeless-Clothing-Accessories-Top/dp/B01LZ27V22/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499281462&sr=8-1&keywords=beanie

https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chieftain-Safety-Swedish-Platinum/dp/B011L8WJIA/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1499281551&sr=1-4&keywords=razor

https://www.amazon.com/Westcott-Titanium-Scissors-Straight-Handle-13901/dp/B000P0LNRE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1499281558&sr=8-3&keywords=scissors

Seriously, take a look at Leisureguy's book. It'll help you decide if wet shaving is for you (it's not for everyone).

Bought/read his book?

Good! Now go out and buy some things.

If you're one to go off the beaten path, look on ebay for vintage Gillette razors or check out your local antique shops. You should be able to get a "vintage" razor for between $5-$15 if you look hard enough.

Next get yourself a good, yet cheaper brush, a blade sampler pack, some soap and/or shaving cream, and an alum block. Have a Bath & Body Works nearby? Pick up this.

At this point, going for a pricey brush/soap doesn't make as much sense, IMO - you're just testing the waters here. There will be plenty of time later to buy a fancier brush (*cough*). The trick here will be to see if you like it more than using a multi-blade cartridge/electric razor.

Cheers, and good luck!

Go on amazon and look up safety razors. Buy one for $7 bucks and get something called "derby blades" https://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Razor-Blades/dp/B0032Q41LS/ref=sr_1_6_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1469041255&sr=1-6&keywords=derby+safety+razor#customerReviews

You'll get 200 razors that last 4-5 shaves each. Very easy to use, very easy to clean, and you'll shave for YEARS on a 7 dollar safety razor and $17 blades.

DIAGONALLY!

Every witch and wizard wants to be beautiful. In particular concern is the subject of unwanted body hair. If you have unwanted body hair you can always buy an enchanted razor to do the work for you (provided you give it clear and proper instruction.)

However, even enchanted razors can become dull, causing unsightly razor bumps and nicks. If this starts to happen to you you can always buy new [blades] (http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000JPMHWK/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=19076RASOIP3J&coliid=I1QSDP109ICDUE) for that razor. Where would you find blades for an enchanted razor? Madam Primpernelle's Beautifying Potions, that's where. And where will you find Madam Primpernelle's Beautifying Potions?

275 Diagon Alley London, England!

Well, I'm also new at this, so take everything I saw with a grain of salt. I think you should get a different sampler, which includes a greater variety of blades. Everyone can link you to what they got, but you know what's in your budget, and what you want. Here's what I got. It's missing a few popular brands (namely, Sharks), but it does it for me.

As for everyone saying not to get that particular razor, it's the one I chose and I'm extremely satisfied with it.

As far as the aftershave goes, I don't use aftershave. I do use a facial moisturizer that I had laying around my bathroom. That being said, I'd probably get one if I wasn't really poor. But if you're satisfied without it, why spend more money than you need?

Lastly, have you thought about trying any soaps, as opposed to cream? You can get some Colonel Conk soap for very cheap (the general consensus is that it's a decent soap, but not special).

Agreed. I shave daily with a double edge safety razor and I use a straight razor around my mustache. I got it on Amazon for around $10 and it came with 100 blades. Works perfect.

Equinox Professional Straight Edge Razor with 100 Single Edge Derby Blades - Close Shaving Men's Manual Shaver Safety https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0118BJ0PA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_YdWtDb1VY57JD

First, thanks for coming to us... I know it's probably embarrassing to have facial hair and not know how to shave and/or to cut your face up all the time because of it. It's happened to everyone and there is nothing to feel bad about.

I personally use a safety-razor, something like this https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chieftain-Safety-Swedish-Platinum/dp/B011L8WJIA/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1494511959&sr=1-4&keywords=safety+razor


It's easy to learn, plus lots of videos online (the way to do it closely matches the ways you have been described here). Over your lifetime you will save so much money not buying razor cartridges and furthermore if you take care of your razor and get something high quality it's something you can pass down to YOUR child if that's something you are interested in.

The parker 24c or 26c, same head different handles, has really positive reviews around here. According to Leisureguy; it's both a very comfortable and very efficient razor. It's also a very affordable being under 30.

Some have had the paint come of the 26c, so the 24c is probably the better one.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IDDW4Y6/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1425633442&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=parker+24c&dpPl=1&dpID=51pw-F%2BZ5cL&ref=plSrch

What they are saying with a better razor right right, but may be only half the battle. I would suggest /r/wicked_edge

A good DE safety razor will end up being more expensive up front, but cheaper in the long run. You only replace the blade and not the whole razor head, and the blades are cheap. Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/MERKUR-Classic-MK-34C-2-Piece-Double/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Merkur+34C&qid=1574435969&sr=8-1

And then a blade pack like this: https://www.amazon.com/Excellent-Quality-Razor-Blades-different/dp/B07PH47B8M/ref=sr_1_4?crid=UP0JNWAD75K2&keywords=de+blade+sampler&qid=1574436020&sprefix=de+blade+%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-4

Soaps/creams a lot of people will recommend different things and your mileage will vary, but I think an after-treatment may be more important in your case. Some type of alum after-treatment works as a disinfectant and prevents ingrown hairs. I am guessing your "boils" will be more affected by an alum block than anything. https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=alum+block&qid=1574436153&sr=8-4

May 3, 2018 - Yesterday's SOTE - Newb Gear

Prep: TOBS Pre-Shave Oil
Brush: Crabtree & Evelyn Best Badger by Edwin Jagger
Razor: Baili BR171
Blade: Astra SP
Lather: Stirling Soap Co. - Mountain Man - Soap
Post Shave: Art of Shaving Lavender Aftershave Balm


This shave takes me way back. It's not really a surprise that I never enjoyed shaving enough to do it regularly. I bought the pre-shave oil a couple years ago on Amazon when I first "got serious" about shaving. Within months I had discovered Reddit and put it aside never to be used again. This is my first ever brush; I can't remember quite when I got it but I date it about 10-15 years old. I haven't used it since I discovered wet shaving artisans, and it was losing hairs left and right just from fluffing the hair and then a good bit more in the act of loading it. Does this look like it'd feel that great on your face? Spoiler Alert: it doesn't. Face lathered away anyway but this brush couldn't possibly be any more pathetic - I guesstimate the knot at probably 18-20mm and not even dense. Stirling probably doesn't belong in this whole setup, but you can't argue it's newbness, especially because of a certain newbcentric subreddit. For the razor, it's pretty much a Viking or something you could find at Barnes & Noble. There you have it. My wife is due to be induced later this morning and I spent my last shave before becoming a dad on this gear. Thank you very much r/wetshaving.

Actually nah, did just one pass last night and going to repeat this shave before heading to the hospital.

It isn't really that expensive though. I bought the Dorco razors from Amazon two years ago. They're the same ones Dollar Shave Club uses. It costs me literally less than a dollar a month to shave 'with bells and whistles' because I take 10 seconds every time I shave to take care of the blade. I'm not saying you're one, but shaving hipsters love to talk about how cheap regular safety razors are but then go out and spend $100 on a badger brush, $50 on a bowl, buy expensive skin oils and pre and post shave balms. The whole movement is chock full of hypocrisy.

I have a merker (this one: http://customshaving.com/merkur-safety-razor-38c.html?gclid=CjwKEAjwkrmhBRD49Mbm_MvruWsSJAAEDt13-_b8i-ri6Aakhd5LV9g53U2zbJLJvGG6mVj0QkAifBoC3Jzw_wcB ) and I've had it for a few years now. I use Feather brand blades. These blades are absolutely, hands down, by a LONG shot, the best blade I have EVER used. (here:http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Hi-Stainless-Platinum-Double-Blades/dp/B001G5HZCY ) They last a few shaves and are sharper still on their 4th shave than any gilette razor blade out of the box. Also, you get 30 of them for less than $12!! A good clean, close, shave with my set up also seems to last longer than any of your other run of the mill multi-bladed bullshit razors too.
It's a one time investment you will not regret, after you shave with a safety razor and a good blade, theres no looking back, you'll think how you could have possibly gone so far down the road of 4,5, or more blades and not just given these a try. I could not be happier with my set up.
Enjoy.

Get a Edwin Jagger De89 it's a very nice medium DE and comes with good blades, a franks shaving brush I like this brush more than the Edwin Jagger 1ej946sds, a blade sampler pack every face and razor is different so what works well for one person in a razor may not work well for someone if you don't like it else change the blade, once you find a blade you like order in bulk , and [Proraso Shaving Cream ](http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Cream-5-2-147 /dp/B000RI8BZQ) this will last you for a while. Now come join us over at /r/wicked_edge/.

Are you trying to use these with a safety razor or what?

What you ordered will fit in a double-edge safety razor. Not a straight razor... or a Gillette razor like you can get at the grocery store.

If you’re trying to delve into wet/DE shaving you’ll need a razor to go along with those blades. There are tons of choices but here are a couple of good places to start:

Weishi Butterfly Razor

Merkur HD

EJ safety razor

> You're getting swindled buying gimmicky cartridges anyway. Double edge safety razor master race. You can buy 100 blades for under $10 and get a better shave.

This. I switched many years ago now and havent looked back.


Edit: links for noobs.

This one is surprisingly good
And these guys have lots of good stuff

Best bang for your buck is to learn how to use an old school safety razor. I switched over a decade ago and am still working through the 100 pack of blades I got back when I first bought in. If you want to do it right you need to spend some money on a decent razor ( I got Merkur Mk34c Double Edge Razor with Heavy Duty Short Handle https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_k2GTCbYXJRBZX ), but after that the blades are super cheap. Also I always try and shave immediately after showering. Everything is warmed up and it’s a much smoother shave.

Edwin Jagger De89

Omega 48

Blade Sampler

Ogalla bay aftershave, I have this sampler and it comes with five two ounce bottles.

Alum Block

Leisureguy recommended me this soap as a pre shave soap

I have this shaving soap and I love it

I would also recommend this book by Leisureguy

I have just switched over and have all of this but the brush and razor(I have a Merkur razor and Tweezerman brush) and I love it all.

It amazes me how many people are caught by the DSC trap even when they know full well of the superior alternative.

In case you somehow haven't heard and still falsely believe DSC is doing anything to save you money, follow this link and thank me with an upvote.

I think he means something more like this. The razor blades are cheap but it takes a little adjustment period. Overall a much cleaner shave but takes a little longer in the morning for me. You can change the blade every two weeks and get a great shave for cheaper than paying for any of those other products. r/wicked_edge has a lot more info for beginners if that interests you

I think a great starter safety razor is the Merkur. Check it out here. I also think Merkur makes some great blades.

A recommended Amazon "College Student" budget setup (Total - $64.40):

Baili Razor - $11.99 ( I started with one of these and it still gives a great shave)
https://www.amazon.com/BAILI-T-Shaped-Shaving-Safety-Trimmer/dp/B01M1LFKPE/ref=sr_1_23_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536235584&sr=1-23&keywords=safety%2Brazor&th=1

Razorock Synthetic Brush - $13.99
https://www.amazon.com/Razorock-Plissoft-Synthetic-Shaving-Brush/dp/B01CD6ZCC4/ref=pd_cp_194_3?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01CD6ZCC4&pd_rd_r=b062e333-b1ce-11e8-96dd-777fa7fb2507&pd_rd_w=vcLdo&pd_rd_wg=MGagW&pf_rd_i=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=ef4dc990-a9ca-4945-ae0b-f8d549198ed6&pf_rd_r=WKDRYZX6RKWYE4M3FXND&pf_rd_s=desktop-dp-sims&pf_rd_t=40701&psc=1&refRID=WKDRYZX6RKWYE4M3FXND

Double Edge Razor Blade Sample Pack (30 Blades) - $9.95
https://www.amazon.com/Double-Edge-Razor-Blade-Sample/dp/B01N6EEZ60/ref=sr_1_7_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236875&sr=1-7&keywords=double+edge+razor+blades

Proraso Shaving Soap - $10.00
https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236319&sr=1-4&keywords=proraso+shaving+soap

Gentleman Jon Alum Block - $7.99
https://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_1_4_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236547&sr=1-4&keywords=alum+block

Clubman Pinaud Styptic Pencil Travel Size .33 oz (pack of 3) - $5.69
https://www.amazon.com/Clubman-Pinaud-Styptic-Pencil-Travel/dp/B00EOAKLFQ/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236615&sr=1-1&keywords=styptic

Aqua Velva Cooling After Shave, Ice Sport, 3.5 Ounce - $4.79
https://www.amazon.com/Aqua-Velva-Cooling-After-Shave/dp/B001T8OD5K/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1536236728&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=after%2Bshave&th=1

You can upgrade later as you can afford it, but this would be a good start. Watch a lot of YouTube vidoes, just search for "Safety Razor Shaving" or "DE Razor Shaving".

The handle I find isn't as important as the blades. I bought two different ones:

Vikings Blade for $38, which is actually my favorite but I gave to wife: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B011L8WJIA/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

​

And then I use this one that was about $20 it definitely gets the job done: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B01LRQAN3Y/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

​

I've only used Astra SP blades and like them enough so I don't experiment with all the different types of blades out there. 100 blades for $8 right now on Amazon: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QY8QXM/ref=oh_aui_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

I’ve always used the Israeli Crystal / “SUPER +” blades as a milder shaving blade:

120 Crystal "SUPER +" Stainless Steel Platinum Coated Double Edge Safety Razor Blades A.K.A Israeli Personnas https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CE3518/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_bZWSAbS16ZHHA

I use those pretty regularly; usually a mix of Feather blades, Personna “Blues” and the Israeli Crystals.

An old-school style safety razor, a pack of 200 blades, a good brush and some nice shaving soap.

Total cost: about $70 if you get the cheeper packs of blades. He will probably not need to buy any shaving supplies for at least a couple years, and when he does it'll probably be just another $12 pack of blades.

Plus you can get nice smelling shaving soap, and it all looks classy. Be a little cautious in how you approach your brother about the Hygiene Improval Project; kids that age can be really self-conscious.

Safety razor works best for me too. I've tried it all. Trimmer just makes it short and scratchy, doesn't get you shaved. I use this one with these blades. Keep one hand dry to pull the skin tight, always use a sharp blade.

You are much better off doing this. Disposable blades are a colossal, sucky ripoff.

100 blades - Made in Russia - for $9
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QY8QXM

The best soap - Made in England - for $15
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW

Merkur razor - Made in Germany - for $32
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G

Badger hair brush - $13
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000G647Y8

The best aftershave - Made in Italy - $14
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085UECY2

So, $83 with money to spare and it's all you need for at least 12 months. The Art of Shaving is neat, but it's grossly overpriced. Clearly they have latched on to the hipster instagrammy nature of society with a price tag to match. I have some of their sandlewood soap and while nice, it's no better than the soap I listed.

It's funny how classic shaving is all of a sudden a trendy thing. All I know is I love it. I came from the 3 NO 4 NO 5 NO a BILLION blade world. It's a joke. Just go old school and take your time. Enjoy the ritual. Baby bottom smooth in 7 minutes. Modern disposable cartridges are a sad scam that society has fallen for. Complete and total scam.

May as well toss this in...especially if you travel. Love mine.

Parker leather razor case - $14
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O8NCI4

Thats a full year of supplies and a lifetime worth of hardware (minus the badger brush). Think about that for a minute...

Equinox Professional Barber Straight Edge Razor Safety with 100 Derby Blades - Close Shaving Men's Manual Shaver - Barber's Favorite https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0118BJ0PA/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_dVQZxbFMXEM3G

This is what you need. I use Henry cavendish soap with a brush to lather and it has worked wonders. I moved to the straight razor and it is a much better shave

Thank you man! I appreciate your help and being so kind!
You will see more of me around here now :)
I was thinking about starting out with this:
http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1419743703&sr=8-1&keywords=DE+blade+sampler

an Omega brush because i have already seen a lot of recommendations to them and trying out some Taylor of Old Bond and Arko soap.

Cool, I just got my Merkur 178 today.

Here's a link to the blades I bought: not too sure on the quality, but they were cheap and had pretty good reviews

Go new. With vintage you run the risk of having rust on it. I personally use http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002IFFSOS/ref=mp_s_a_1_8_a_it?qid=1457711681&sr=8-8&keywords=safety+razor. Nicely balanced and doesn't break the bank. You're gonna wanna invest in a beaver hair brush. I use http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003WR3QSG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?qid=1457713208&sr=8-2&keywords=beaver+hair+brush&pi=SY200_QL40 make sure your wash out the brush thoroughly and then you're gonna need a ceramic bowl for lathering. There are tons of YouTube videos on proper lathering techniques and blade strokes. For shaving cream http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0007MW2ZW/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?qid=1457713304&sr=8-2&keywords=shaving+cream&pi=SX200_QL40. And then you're gonna need a holder for your blade and brush for its not good for them to rest on the counter and it helps the brush naturally dry. http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B017XXRM84/ref=mp_s_a_1_3_a_it?qid=1457713408&sr=8-3&keywords=brush+and+blade+stand&pi=SY200_QL40. For blades I always recommend http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001QY8QXM/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_a_it?qid=1457713447&sr=8-1&keywords=astra+blades&pi=SX200_QL40.

Hopes this points you in the right direction.

$40 starter set

$12.50 set - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001A3HPT0/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER

$7 razor - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0050HO9MI/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&smid=A1THAZDOWP300U

$10 sampler set - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007OL72B8/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&smid=A11C50J5I9SKBO

$9 alum block - http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000VXELII/ref=ox_sc_act_title_2?ie=UTF8&smid=AED9GYTNTTZUB


I don't know what any of you are talking about. We're talking about starter sets for noobs. And starter sets for noobs on a budget at that. Isn't it better to start with crappier stuff and then work your way up to better/more expensive things (kinda like having a clunker as your first car)? I've scoured through all the comments and I can verify that the ones linked here are all good products (or as good as anything can be for the price), nothing here is faulty or poorly made, so why hasn't anyone mentioned them?

Anyway, this is what I'm buying. It's about the same prize as the whipped dog bundle ('cept these all have free shipping so its actually cheaper) except it comes with way more blade samples and a cheaper razor. It's a trade off I'm willing to make since you can get used to a crappy razor but knowing which blades you want will save you a ton of money.

you could you any disposible razor like this:

One style


second style

trust me. Once you use one of these you'll go "ok why didnt I use this before, it's that easy"


You can literally buy them at any ace hardware, drug store, supermarket or pharmacy.

Here you go:

Merkur Long Handled Chrome Safety Razor

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000NL0T1G

Colonel Ichabod Conk Chrome Safety Razor Stand

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001XURHNY

Escali 100% Pure Badger Shaving Brush

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003WR3QSG

Merkur-Razor Double Edge Razor Blades

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JPMHWK

Proraso Shaving Soap, Eucalyptus & Menthol, 5.2 oz (150 ml), New Formulation

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00837YY18

It is a nice set up to being with. My word of advice: take your time on your first shave to get used to this way of shaving.

The first time I shaved with the safety razor I spent about 30 mins. Now I can do it in 10 to 15 mins.

This video helped me get started:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2IuA8HGacJw

I just ordered my beginning DE set, so I haven't shaved yet. But based on my research:

I got this blade sampler $16 because it has a decent variety of brands, and I read somewhere it's better to have more than one or two blades per brand when you're experimenting. If you're willing to spend a little more, maybe try this $40 sampler with 21 brands, I'd say that's your best bet for finding a brand you like.

Split the difference with this $25 sampler, 12 brands to try.

I'm in the UK, so got mine from Shave Lounge, but I was thinking about using Connaught for more blades, as their postage seems a little cheaper (also, I kinda like their archaic website). There are lots of US suppliers listed on the /r/wicked_edge wiki.

I got a Parker 91R because I believe that the handle should be knurled. It's not that fancy (although I see there are cheaper), but it's fine. You can get it for $30 in the US, it seems.

Buy a sampler or two of blades and see which ones you like. This seems to be a subjective matter - I've only tried two brands so far, as they're the ones which came with my razor; I liked the Derby Extra, which lots of people seem to dislike, whereas the Persona Platinum didn't suit me.

I kinda think the subscribers to /r/wicked_edge are taking it a bit too seriously, posting photos of their new razors and making it into a "hobby", but I can feel a noticeable difference between the two brands of blades.

The /r/wicked_edge subscribers harp on about shaving gel / foam being shitty - I bought a brush and the kind of shaving soap they recommend, but haven't used it, as Gillette gel still seems fine to me.

Hope this helps.

> holy-shit-shaving-is-expensive territory again

I bought this razor that came with 100 blades. $15 bucks. Blade last me 4-5 shaves (have a long beard, so just for lining and neck) so that is a about 100 blades a year.

Replacement blades are $10 bucks and Cremo shaving cream is like $6.

Pretty cheap and I get a great shave when needed!

Thanks for the head's up. That does look like a great travel razor. Out of curiosity how sharp would you rate Derby Extra blades in regard to sharpness? In my experience I put them in the middle of the pack. Have you tried them with this razor?

Has anyone ever used one of those and reviewed it? I get that you don't need to spend 100 bucks on a DE razor, but 2.25 seems like it wouldn't even be a good razor.

brush/cream, also on Amazon there are...Van Der Hagen
http://www.amazon.com/Van-Der-Hagen-Premium-Shave/dp/B001A3HPT0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370312930&sr=8-1&keywords=shaving+kit

it's about 15 bucks for a brush and soap to start out with. I haven't used it so I cannot vouch good/bad, but it's worth a try.

I prefer long handles, but there are some cheaper EJ short handles.
http://www.amazon.com/Parker-99R-Handle-HEAVYWEIGHT-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1370313036&sr=8-9&keywords=double+edge+razor

30 bucks for a razor plus a few blades.

As far as blades in the future, I got this sampler pack myself:
http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B003OL2LHC/ref=sr_1_11?ie=UTF8&qid=1370313141&sr=8-11&keywords=double+edge+razor+blades+sampler

But there are smaller versions (something like 10 blades). I have that one, but I would suggest going with the smaller ones. There's a 16 pack for about 12 bucks.

It isn't cheap, but in...3 months? Maybe 4? You're already less than with cartridges and canned goop.

You can economize instead of going with the Merkur razor by going with a comparable Parker razor.

Parker Heavy Weight

They take the same blades, and the quality is just as nice. I use a heavyweight as my field razor since it takes abuse without a complaint.

The stands are easy to make yourself from some metal pipe and parts from Home Depot. Sand and paint it with enamal and you'll have something that will last for many years.

Last, the brushs need to be cared for, that means you rinse them after use and then air dry.

http://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Badger-Shaving-Brush

I like my safety razors a lot because they give me a close shave with a very heavy beard. Your face will also look a lot better as less time exposed to a blade means less knicks and cuts.

Travel size CO Bigelow Shaving Cream (The same as Proraso cream) - $5

Tweezerman badger hair shaving brush - $13

Concord DE Razor - $10

100 Derby Blades - $8

I don't know if the Concord razor is good, but the price fits. The tweezerman brush is a great entry level brush.

Ha! Jokes on you! I've stocked up 200 safety razor blades in my fallout shelter.

http://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Razor-Blades/dp/B0032Q41LS/ref=sr_1_7?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1416836618&sr=1-7&keywords=200

My woman will be clean shaven for decades.

Just commenting to add prices -- these may not be accurate for very long, since some were listed with limited quantites, but it may help some:

$29.98 - Feather: www.amazon.com/dp/B004RWTQTS[1]
$9.77 - Astra Green: www.amazon.com/dp/B001QY8QXM[2]
$12.77 - Astra Blue: www.amazon.com/dp/B002G2VENC[3]
$8.93 - Derby Extra: www.amazon.com/dp/B004SGKMA0[4]
$12.00 - Shark: www.amazon.com/dp/B004RWZ1RE[5]
$6.99 - Dorco: www.amazon.com/dp/B003OY14EK[6]
$16.95 - Big Ben: www.amazon.com/dp/B0047M51WE[7]
$15.05 - Lord Platinum: www.amazon.com/dp/B001VTRGGK[8]
$15.95 - Lord Classic: www.amazon.com/dp/B002VT94K0[9]
$29.85 - Gillette Silver Blue: www.amazon.com/dp/B0059QF5RS[10]
$20.00 - Gillette 7 O'Clock: www.amazon.com/dp/B00875XSIQ[11]
$17.95 - Blue Bird: www.amazon.com/dp/B002YIO56Q[12]
$19.99 - BIC: www.amazon.com/dp/B0022RB080[13]
$24.98 - Personna Super 200CT: www.amazon.com/dp/B00AA1AEEG[14]
$24.00 - Wilkinson Sword: www.amazon.com/dp/B003RXP1UQ[15]
$18.88 - Crystal (Israeli Personna) 120CT: www.amazon.com/dp/B002CE3518[16]

You might consider switching to a safety razor. Cartridge razors don't work well with very thick hair.

Here is a pretty good place to start. Razor, brush, scuttle, cream

I personally use Feather blades, but you might consider a variety pack because blade preferences vary person to person.

It costs a bit of money up front, but your blades will only cost 25-35 cents afterwards, so if you are used to using a Mach 3, it will pay for itself in a couple years and will save you hundreds or thousands of dollars over a lifetime.

Well, let's see...

• Prep - While I don't do a stand-alone pre-shave face wash, I do use a glycerin soap in the shower immediately prior to shaving. It's not MRGLO, and it does get rinsed and dried before shaving. After the shower, I splash with hot water and leave it wet as I make my lather.
  
• Blade angle/pressure - I think I'm pretty conscientious about the angle and pressure. Usually I start with the cap against my skin and rotate slightly until i get blade contact. I try to use as close to no pressure as possible. There are a couple of spots that are tricky, and I do sometimes catch myself scraping a bit.
  
• Beard grain - I've got a pretty good handle on that. After switching to a DE, I spent so much time just feeling my face and neck marveling at the difference in texture from past shaves. For the most part, the grain runs downward with the exception of my neck, which runs to the right. I do WTG, XTG, ATG on my cheeks, chin and upper lip and get a wonderful BBS finish. On my neck, I just can't seem to get it. I get the best results with an XTG pass in each direction, with a couple more passes rotating closer to ATG each time. I can't manage to go ATG (Rt to Lt) on my neck without nicks and burning.
  
• Lather - I get pretty good lather: nice firm peaks in the bowl, fully opaque coverage on my face, brushed on in nice tight circles. I thought I had good lather when I was using the VDH soap I got starting out, but a new puck of TOBS really opened my eyes on that.
  
• Blades - I'm still working though my original sample pack. There are a couple of losers like the Trig I mentioned above. So far, I get the best results from the Astra Platinum, Feather and Gillette Goals.
  
• Post-shave - Prior to my latest purchases, I finished with a splash of witch hazel. I've now acquired and use an alum block, rubbed over the skin while still wet from rinsing. I let that sit while I brush my teeth, then splash with water, pat dry and rub on a little Pinaud Clubman.
  
  For the most part, I don't really get much razor burn unless I try to hard for BBS on my neck. I just can't seem to get good results there. The Fusion experiment the other night did give me a burn, but that's obviously a result of the dry scrub. I don't plan on returning to cartridge shaves, but I am frustrated that the cartridge was able to get me BBS on my neck where I've failed so far with the DE.

I tried to use electric razors but it doesn't come close to a safety razor for me. I did have to get use to using it though, like when i started using them for my first week I was going extra slow but after a while you just get used to it. I think the secret is not actually applying any pressure and just letting the weight of the razor guide the blade. For reference here's the razor i use, I also use Derby blades as they're more forgiving on nicks.

I'll second that recommendation of the Parker 24C or 26C. I have the 24C and it's my third razor (others being a 1954 Gillette Super Speed Flare Tip and a Merkur long handle) and I absolutely love it. They're $29 on Amazon.

My $.02 (For ease of use everything is linked to Amazon, prices will vary)

Razor: Merkur 180, $32

Brush: Escali 100% Pure Badger, $14

Shaving Cream: Proraso, $11

Blades: Sampler Pack, $20

And then that leaves ~$20 to play with to buy a a nice book on shaving, or a shaving stand, or some aftershave

Everyone is touting safety razors for a reason. Here is what you want...

Pick up a Merkur Classic safety razor.
https://www.amazon.com/MERKUR-Classic-MK-34C-2-Piece-Double/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=merkur&qid=1565340143&s=gateway&sr=8-4&th=1

Then buy some Feather refill blades (they are the sharpest I have found without dragging)
https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Blades-30-Ct/dp/B002OCANQI/ref=sr_1_7?crid=3F44F5VGGF2N1&keywords=feather+razor+blades&qid=1565340348&s=gateway&sprefix=feather+%2Caps%2C186&sr=8-7

Get a nice silver tip badger shaving brush
https://www.amazon.com/Parker-Safety-Razor-Silvertip-Bristle/dp/B00LEU3PJS/ref=sr_1_4?keywords=badger+shaving+brush&qid=1565340426&s=gateway&sr=8-4

A decent quality razor and brush stand
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0725X6TNH/ref=sspa_dk_detail_1?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B0725X6TNH&pd_rd_w=vS9lk&pf_rd_p=8dbd62ec-d8d3-48e5-b85d-16f701719d81&pd_rd_wg=MJlWF&pf_rd_r=AWB84ARTRPN3QVS12KKD&pd_rd_r=e316a787-1b5c-4984-8255-71ebf10c06f0&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyT0pTWlZPSTkwRTk1JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODY4ODA2Mzk3VjNBV1hDUUhIWCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTk1NTY5U0xYWkpYODJXTE41JndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfZGV0YWlsX3RoZW1hdGljJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

A good shaving cup to get a nice lather
https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chairman-Shaving-Stainless-Standard/dp/B07GF6ZKTP/ref=pd_bxgy_194_3/143-9531827-5381065?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B072PRBWXR&pd_rd_r=4c94e9c8-bddd-4e03-bdd9-5bfe1d171d33&pd_rd_w=WFwmN&pd_rd_wg=yvSPW&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=YR6K9GZT62D1RRN31AB3&refRID=YR6K9GZT62D1RRN31AB3&th=1

Then grab some Tabac or Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving pucks. (I prefer Tabac since it reminds me of my father and grandfather. Traditions die hard I guess)
https://www.amazon.com/Tabac-Original-Maurer-Shaving-Ounces/dp/B000GHYXG4/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=tabac&qid=1565340634&s=beauty&sr=1-2

Taylor of Old Bond Street
https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=OHNKVBMKBAAT&keywords=taylor+of+old+bond+street+shaving+cream&qid=1565340657&s=beauty&sprefix=taylor+of+old%2Cbeauty%2C191&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&smid=AMAE8K0LRQPCN&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyUzlaRTNXNjZUS1c4JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNDY4ODE3MU00RVdWVzg1UlFPWiZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwNjA4ODg2NEE1UFZJQ1pTMllXJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==

Here's a relatively inexpensive kit to get you started with traditional wet shaving. If you're willing to spend more put it towards a better razor, like an Edwin Jagger DE8x series. Let me know if you have questions and enjoy your first wet shave.

Lord L6 DE razor - $12.75

Blade Sampler - $10

Omega brush and soap - $20

The handles are more for weight preference. The blades themselves are what vary. I used to get irritated bad until I switched to safety. If you still get irritation from the actual cutting, or your hair is so course it pulls, buy a variety pack (example) and see what works and what doesn't. Personally, I prefer Astra or Derby but I doubt I have as course hair as you. I've heard decent things about feather as well but no personal experience with that brand.

As for prep, OP could probably point you in the right direction. I just use a shave brush with "sensitive skin" shave creme and have no issues. Sounds like you will probably want a pre-shave product that softens the hair though. I'd also recommend avoiding any alcohol based after shave products. I'm a big fan of one with tea tree oil and/or witchhazel

Edit: forgot to mention, try doing a 2 pass system if you've been just going against the grain. First pass WITH the hair to get it all down then 2nd pass CROSS (as opposed to against) grain to get super low. That helped me a lot and still gets it down super low. Mileage may vary though.
Also, try pre-wet and shave with hot water, clean off at the end with cold.

Parker Safety razor: http://www.amazon.com/Parker-91R-Heavyweight-Safety-Razor/dp/B001AKFXN8

A lot of people like feather blades (I haven't tried them) but I'm happy with Derby (also bought on Amazon)

The Parker 91R Super Heavyweight Double Edge Safety Razor.link I would suggest being careful with yours. A number of other people have had issues with the chrome coating on the 91R, I can't speak for the 99. The treads tend to snap too. Apparently Parkers aren't cheap razors, they are just made cheaply.

I switched from Merkur to Personna Super+ Platinum from Israel (known as Personna ‘blues’). They’re marketed as ‘Crystal’ in the US. Just make sure the ones you try are made in Israel. They aren’t as sharp as Feather (which are too sharp for me), but definitely comparable to the Merkur blades. I can get a year’s worth on Amazon for ~$25. As always, YMMV.


Amazon link

I got this sampler. Ok, so my memory was fuzzy -- it was $25 for the 100.

There are several brands (Derby being a popular one, which I enjoyed for my most recent shave) being sold for $30 for 200. 15-cents a blade!

On my phone, it sure of this link will take you to Amazon's mobile site. But, it's from Amazon. I don't think there's a chance it'll fit the Futur. But it fits the DE86 nicely.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001O8NCI4/ref=mp_s_a_1?pi=75x75&qid=1345810258&sr=8-1

120 Crystal "SUPER +" Stainless Steel Platinum Coated Double Edge Safety Razor Blades A.K.A Israeli Personnas https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002CE3518/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_hdB9wbHYWNVBF

This is the best Feather AC club razor I ever used. Very smooth, easy to use, cheap, durable. AFAIK, this is also the razor those blades are designed for.

Is getting a single blade sampler sufficient to test the blades? Please see my link below. I'm wondering if I need like a 5 pack of each to really get a good test.

http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1416369610&sr=8-2&keywords=Safety+razor+blade+sampler+pack

Those blades are Crystal Super +

One of my first blades I ever bought and they are pretty damn good IMHO.

Cool. What say you about this Vikings brand on Amazon?

Just started understanding what TTO means, and now that I see you can just twist open the top (versus unscrewing the whole thing), I think I'm sort of keen on a TTO model.

http://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Double-Swedish-Platinum-Manliness/dp/B011L8WJIA/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1457283599&sr=1-1-spons&keywords=safety+razor&psc=1

Looks like the old SuperSpeeds were also TTO? Is that what made them so speedy?

Arko soap
Very cheap soap that performs great . Plus you get 15 sticks for $20.
Derby blades Good cheap blade, but you should get
a sampler first to see if you like them.
Mandom aftershave or Aqua Velva.

I use feather single blade disposable razors. They are glorious nippon steel. Afterwards I apply rubbing alcohol. I get much less irritation than with gillette 5 blade razors, and it’s faster since hair doesn’t get caught between the blades. Feather SS Folding Handle Razor, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008CF6KMC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_fvKNDbPD7YTFR

The blades are super cheap but it’s really easy to turn things into a blood bath since they are so sharp.

You should consider a safety razor, you can get more info at /r/wicked_edge if you like. You can get a decent set up for less than $50 and buy razorblades for less than 10 cents each(here's 100 blades for $8.20) while getting a much better shave.

I sprang for one decimal place over and am quite happy with my Parker 96R. I actually bought it in 2011 and still haven't had to buy any blades since it came with so many sample packs (and I keep a beard half the year, which requires minimal shaving). My shaving expense has pretty much just been aftershave, though my shaving soap puck that I got at the same time is getting a little thin.

I'm still trying to decide which blade is best for me. I bought this back in august. I don't shave often. Just recently started using the ones from this order. I'm good for next year and a half I think.

I have one of these.
Works great. Blades cost $1.50 for a ten pack and my face doesn't breakout any more and I don't have any ingrown hairs. I couldn't begin to tell you how much money I've saved.

I'm on vacation right now, in fact. I just leave the blade in and use a case that completely covers my razor head and I've never had any problems at all.

I've also been using a smaller vintage Travalong razor that packs the head away inside itself in the space of a pack of blades. A cool little piece that gives a surprisingly good shave for as silly looking as it is.

This will probably even save you money in the long run, so go nuts:

• razor, eg: Brushed Chrome Merkur "Futur" Safety Razor $72.51
  
• bucket o' blades: 100 Razor blades $7.93
  
• badger brush, eg: Chrome Badger Brush $19.95 - can't find mine on amazon.com, but that one looks nice.
  
• some kind of shaving soap.
  
  So I've overshot the budget slightly, but considering these are most of your shaving expenses for the next few decades... :D

Parker 99R - Long Handle Heavyweight Butterfly Open Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B003NTHWLU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_aSQ6CbSM7QQ2S

Parker 87R Butterfly Open Double Edge Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019245MW0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FTQ6CbPFNN8ZF

One of these Parker Butterflies might do well for you

I have a fairly thick beard, and I just got these (was using Merkur before) because they were decently priced. I don't know what to think. I think they're not right for me, but I've only been shaving my neck (beard-time!) and it's super sensitive anyway.

They are so sharp...it's kind of unbelievable.

I like these

They are often referred to as "Israeli Personnas" on forums/boards...I find that they work really well on my skin and aren't too sharp but also last a long time. Your results may vary.....but they do come in this sample pack which is a good idea!

Might be worth getting one of their handles. I was going to have to buy some new cartridges for my Gillette anyway, they're around $20 for a box of 4. This was on Amazon, so I went ahead and bought it instead. The videos on Dorco's website say their cartridges are a standard "latch" thing, so if everything works out I'll just buy my refills in bulk from the Dorco site from now on.

EDIT: I went with the Amazon one since I still had a free trial of prime, so it was about a dollar cheaper. The Dorco site has the same offer with shipping at around $20.59.

I actually have a safety razor which is so much cheaper than disposable razors. I'm not sure how you've used one blade for a whole year. I switch em out once every other week but I shave my head, A whole lot more surface area. Still though, one blade in a year?

I thought buying a 200 pack and having that last me 2-3 years was impressive.

I do dry the razor after every use (and only shave every other day) but do not have a sharpener...

Edit: I have a box of these.

I bought this, but I'm talking about the packing for all DE razor blades in general though. The packaging looks like it's from the 80s whereas you have the modern cart razors like the mach 3 or fusion with hip modern "cool" packaging.

I threw out the multiblade and switched to old-school shaving with a cheap-ass newbie safety razor. You can probably get an even better shave with a more expensive razor, but this one was the only one for sale in my vicinity and the only one I was willing to pay for and it was still better than the multiblade. Don't forget to change the blades every few shaves on each side.

Here's the guide to actually doing it:

http://www.artofmanliness.com//2008/01/04/how-to-shave-like-your-grandpa

they are horrible,

Theres the gillette one which is a rebadge, but its meh at best,

If you want a cheap decent razor i would go for the wilkinson sword double edge classic, it retails between 5 and 10 bucks and its a solid razor.
https://www.amazon.com/Wilkinson-Sword-Classic-Razor-Blades/dp/B0012Y1FCK

I've heard about those and I just googled, and I can't imagine for the life of me what that would be used for hahah. It just cuts closer or what?

I'm using these blades right now and I love them a lot. I've also never had a problem with ingrown hairs though so maybe some more research would be needed as far as fineness of the blades or something? I'm not sure how I'd go about finding that out lol

This is what I use. I was cut pretty badly when someone put my safety razor in my toiletries bag, and I reached in blindly not expecting it to be in there. I recommend a soft case like this:

https://www.amazon.com/Parker-Safety-Genuine-Razor-Protective/dp/B001O8NCI4/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1511285867&sr=8-5&keywords=safety+razor+case

edit: I store used blades in an old medicine bottle.

This brings up an interesting point in discussion. So, I bought a lifetime supply of blades from Costco over two years - every time we made it up to the one in the city, I'd buy them because they are quite expensive otherwise here in Australia. This resulted in a tiny drawer full of blades I have very slowly worked my way through.

I justified to myself that taking up the one small (really, it was quite small) drawer was fine and I didn't need to feel bad about the space usage since I saved money.

Then after five years in our apartment, we moved. That meant I had to box up my still half full drawer to move them. Then I had to make room for them and the other pack I found stuffed in another drawer because I'd ran out of room and forgotten it.

The physical burden went from one drawer to moving it, finding a new home, the mental space it took up and the inevitable land waste from the razers. It wasn't just the physical space that mattered. And in our small apartment that was just one more thing I had to stress about moving.

BIFL for me isn't about just the physical space. It's about the life I choose being effective for me in the immediate present, the less obvious present (my landfill footprint and how much goes into my garbage and recycling that doesn't even need to be there in the first place if I choose not to), and the future of my life that will inevitably leave its mark on my child.

One really good item replaces all of that and more for me it means I can live in a place with less storage because I don't need it. Less to clean up, organise, fix or replace. Because replacing still happens and is a little mental pocket I have to care for. My mental burden is less for every item I choose to not store.

I swapped to this and it's great. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B001AKFXN8/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_9?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A262S395NXGG8Z

I'm still working on that blade pile too though. Ugh.

And don't forget your Colonel Conk World's Famous Shaving Soap. It makes you smell like a god.

Here's my razor. I really wish I had dropped the extra coin for a Merkur though. The weighting on this thing is all weird.

Don't buy those store 3, 4, 5 whatever razors for those crazy amounts of money, just buy a decent straight blade. They're so much cheaper, last so much longer and honestly give better results. This is one I got on Amazon and personally use for less than $10

brush case

razor case

No lie, I like the razor case a LOT better than the brush case. The brush case doesn't get my nice brush, it gets a coarse horsehair travel brush that I use in emergencies. I have yet to find a really nice case for a brush to travel with.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008O82O7C/ref=ox_sc_sfl_title_144?ie=UTF8&smid=A3ICRSKZQECIMA&th=1

is the razor i'm using now. works pretty damn well. especially since i have some decent shaving cream, which helps a lot more than i expected now that i'm not using the cheap shit my dad buys from the store. currently still have a little bit of a Nivea face scrub, and i have some https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009WQH8SA/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&th=1 that also works well, though honestly i prefer the Nivea stuff, it's just that the only option i've found for it online is a six pack that costs $60 on fucking walmart.com, and i'm not buying that much or paying that much for it in one go.

That's a lot of money.. You may already know this but here it is anyway.

Amazon link for the Dorco razors that Dollar Shave Club buys I use these, they are great. Then again I shave like.. once or twice a week and haven't ordered any refills yet.

/r/wicked_edge the razor-blade refills are cheap as hell, and they work best.

You're right, I do not want a Straight blade like that.

Here's an amazon link to what I usually buy: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JPMHWK/ref=rcxsubs_mys2_product_title

You're right in saying Double Egde Razor. Thanks for the correction!

In fairness, he could be using a double edge razor and buying the blades in bulk.

On the other hand, I get a powerful fight-or-flight response when I try pondering what he uses for a toothbrush.

If you want to invest time learning to sharpen one, and money in straight razors and good hones. Do it, I think you'd be looking at 100 dollars plus.

Personally I have a shavette, it's sharper than is physically possible to get a straight razor since the blade is thinner, also one with a pack of blades that will last you years just cleaning your cheek line is 13 dollars.

https://www.amazon.com/Equinox-Professional-Straight-Single-Blades/dp/B0118BJ0PA/ref=sr_1_4_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1494537095&sr=8-4&keywords=shavette

I was about to say that. Honestly you can get better than $0.10 per blade if you know where to look. $0.075 per blade

I got all this awesome stuff being shipped to me at the moment and I can't wait to use it:

Merkur 180,
Van Der Hagen Premium Shave Set - Soap, Bowl, Brush),
100 pack Derby Blades, and Styptic Pencil

Well, maybe not the alum pencil, but everything else I'm pretty amped about. I do need a brush stand though.

I figured I'd start with a decent razor and upgrade everything else as I got more familar with wet shaving.

EDIT: Too early, need coffee.

I bought last week a good quality heavy DE razor (Amazon Link), Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving cream (Link), 50 Astra Platinum blades, 50 Gillette Platinum blades, a 6-7$ shaving brush and a nice wooden shaving bowl.

Im at my fourth shave and I still didn't cut myself. You just need to prep-work your skin with a hot towel or a shower. I don't know about the shaving cream since I'm a beginner but I watched a lot of tutorial on YouTube to build a good lather. My first lather was shitty, but my second was already better.

One double edge blade is 10 cents. If you change your blade every two shaves, it will cost you approx. 10$ in blades for an entire year.

I don't know why I waited so long before making the switch.

It may seem expensive. But it is honestly a one time purchase. The razors are a quality built, they'll last you a life time. The brush will last a very long time as well.

You can get this [Wilkinson Sword] (Wilkinson Sword Classic (Razor + 5 Blades) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0012Y1FCK/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_aEiZxbBJK7E3T)

Or this [RiMei](Look at this on eBay http://www.ebay.com/itm/271820853520) its a cheap but effective razor. If it breaks they're so cheap you can just replace it.

The cheapest brush might be [Omega Synthetic](Omega Blue Handle Syntex Synthetic Fibre Shaving Brush Vegan Cruelty Free https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004L08KSO/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_uJiZxbKFTR0GG)

Here's 100 for $9.90 + free shipping from Amazon. I might have gotten mine off another site, but I don't exactly remember. Besides, if you paid 9.9 cents per blade and I paid 8 cents, I promise I won't tell anyone!

I use Merkur blades! I'm going to apply all the tips I got here before ordering a new razor, but thanks for the link to the sub! Didn't know it existed!

Have any opinions on this?

https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B008CF6KMC/?coliid=IFI2TMAN0CKME&colid=1DSE6WHYI3MZ3&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it&th=1

I'm loving the Feather model and don't mind spending a bit more than other stuff for an Artist Club. Seems like a really good price for an Artisan Club based on other stores, but also makes me wonder if it's legit...

For anyone who would like to buy the Dollar Shave Club razors, Dollar Shave Club uses Dorco brand razors.
They can be purchased on Amazon. Inevitably, Unilever will reduce the quality of DSC's products, and probably raise the prices.

Amazon Links to Dorco 6-Blade razors used by DSC (cheaper price per blade than DSC)
Dorco Pace 6 Plus- Six Blade Razor System with Trimmer - Value Pack (10 Cartridges + 1 Handle) - $20.99
or, blades only:
Dorco Pace 6 Plus- Six Blade Razor System with Trimmer- 12 cartridges (No Handle) - $24.99

Wow, I just had a look for myself, indeed it has gone up. Here's one on amazon for $10, about double what I paid for the exact same pack about a year ago.

I asked a similar question myself a little while ago, especially about the difference between Shavettes and straights. I don't think Shavettes are especially looked down upon, they are just a lot more different to straights than they first appear. /u/xman1971 suggested a Feather SS or AC brand of shavette which on amazon are around $60-$80. http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Folding-Handle-Razor-Black/dp/B008CF6KMC . I ultimately went with a shave-ready straight from Sam ( /u/roctraitor ) which should be arriving on Sunday. He sells lots of different models, strops and a lot are around $45. He would be able to answer most of your question. Hope this helps a little.

Check out this article: http://www.bruceonshaving.com/2011/03/09/escaping-from-the-dark-side-a-road-map/

Might help you out. Also:

http://www.amazon.com/Wilkinson-Sword-Classic-Double-Blades/dp/B0012Y1FCK/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1313509613&sr=1-1

And if you have a target nearby sometimes they carry a badger brush by Shea Moisture. It's $9 and its the brush I use almost every day. Very good value.

Edited to add: I don't have any extra razors otherwise I probably would consider lending you one as long as you pay it forward, but Badger and Blade members often have Pay-It-Forward (PIF) giveaways for certain things. You might want to lurk there for a while.

Riippuu toki höylästä. Kolmella neljällä kympillä saa kyllä jo semmoisen setin (höylä, terät, suti, mömmöt) millä tekee parturiliikkeen tyylisen "luksusajelun" kotioloissa joka päivä vuoden ajan.

EDIT. Todiste alaäänestäjille:

• Wilkinson Sword Classic -partahöylä 3,45 e
  
  
• 100 kpl Astra Superior Platinum -teriä 12,50 e
  
  
• Villisiankarvainen partasuti 8,99 e
  
  
• 2 kpl Proraso Green -partasaippua 12,38 e
  
  
• 2 kpl Palmolive Men Classic -parranajovoidetta 1,70 e
  
  
• Ilmaiset postikulut
  
  Yhteensä 39,02 e. Jos halvemmalla haluaa päästä niin Prorasot voi jättää pois ja ottaa pari putelia lisää Palmolivea tai jotain muuta voidetta tai saippuaa. Kaupan perus pursotustavaraakin voi käyttää mutta sitten ajo ei olekkaan enää ihan parturiliikkeen tasoa.

http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Hi-Stainless-Platinum-Double-Blades/dp/B001G5HZCY

best razors on the planet + a merkur safety razor = I will never go back to any american disposable head crap razor.

>Need better scoring blade...

A: http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Hi-Stainless-Platinum-Double-Blades/dp/B001G5HZCY

B: http://www.amazon.com/Wood-Coffee-Stirrers-1000-Count/dp/B001FVPAOE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1393969298&sr=8-3&keywords=coffee+stirrers

Instructions: Put A on B. Get a lame far sharper and far cheaper than what you'd buy from a pro bread store—and one that can be easily "sharpened" by just throwing out the old blade and putting on a new one.

Guy here

you want the best shaving cream with the least waste?

Go this route

Shaving Soap

Shaving soap container

Safety Razor it will last you a lifetime and its nothing to be feared. You wont cut yourself if you always shave down and never side to side

almost a lifetime of razors for $9

follow that up with one of these holders

and the shaving brush

I have to buy new soap every so often but after the initial investment you will only ever pay pennies for each shave