Reddit mentions of Leisureguy's Guide to Gourmet Shaving, Fourth Edition: Shaving Made Enjoyable

I wrote a whole book for just this purpose. Check the reader reviews to see what people thought of it. If you think it might be helpful, hold off on ordering a copy until the 5th edition comes out (next week) since I added quite a bit to the new edition.

> That's quite a bit of text---in fact, it practically amounts to a book.

Like the one you wrote? Don't be ashamed to plug it, it's an awesome book.

It isn't as much maintenance as more attention. Stop before use, dry off and maybe oil after use. Honing he will send out about every 3months to a year for about $20 plus shipping. Wise to have at least two straights for comparison when blade not shaving as expected, and sent out for honing.

It also is not as forgiving in use. Tongue in cheek I often joke anyone that needs to shave should use a straight. Really I recommend start with the DE. When he finds he loves the wet shave, having mastered stretching techniques and making nice lather, then get a straight. Most of the DE process carries over to the straight.

Both are very enjoyable to use. It's also amazing having such a close shave, with what many consider antiquated tools.

Many ladies also enjoy the luxury of brush lather, and smooth results. You may end up getting two kits.

edit-
http://www.amazon.com/Leisureguys-Guide-Gourmet-Shaving-Fourth/dp/1450582974

Yes, a brush is used with cream. Many, including me, use a separate bowl (cereal bowl size) place a fingernail size dollop of cream in the bowl with a few teaspoon or so of water, and mix lather in the bowl with damp brush. Others will stir the damp brush in tub of cream to get soap on bristles and mix lather on the skin.

Also, trimming a perfect straight line on a beard/goatee is joyful how easy it is with a straight. With a DE, still easier than with a cartridge that he now uses, but a straight it makes it a snap.

Don't do a used brush. Franks Shaving brushes on ebay, that Leisureguy recommended are a great value. For a beginner I recommend badger over boar, due to how soft and luxurious it feels. Boar works fine, but for a gift, badger feels elegant.

Not clear on the question about a vintage razor base. Are you talking about a stand to hold/display them on the counter? If so, mix and match is fine. I don't think needed. It may be additional clutter on the counter top. They also get expensive, but usually only hold one or two razors. Many other good options to store equipment.

The Franks Shave brush will come with a plastic stand, that can sit counter top. I use double sided foam tape and stick my brush stands under my medicine cabinet. Also works to stick to the wall. Razors can even be stored in a right sized toothbrush holder, but I use test tube racks.

I'd really check this book out. He stresses that blades vary so much and what works for one may not work for another.

You NEED a styptic of some sort, even if a drug store variety.

The book Leisureguy was too shy to mention is:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/1450582974/ref=redir_mdp_mobile

Appy poly lodgies for the mobile link. Great guide, well worth the money.