(Part 2) Best men shaving razors & blades according to redditors

Invest in a safety razor and some blades and you will be set. Those 200 blades should last you for a decade unless you shave daily.

Im not kidding. Safety razor blades are mere pennies and the razor should last longer than you.

I have a solution.

Double edged safety razor: http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-180-Handled-Safety/dp/B000NL0T1G/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1301803036&sr=8-1 I use that one.

Blades: http://www.amazon.com/SHARK-CHROME-DOUBLE-SAFETY-BLADES/dp/B003BWQX46/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1301803078&sr=1-1 I use those at 17 cents a blade, but you can get much cheaper ones too.

This switch has saved me so much money and gives me a better shave. You will also want some shaving soap or cream with a brush. Enjoy

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.

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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.

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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.

> 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!

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.

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

Can't go wrong with 100 blades for $12. Those Gillette devils aren't getting any more of my money.

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)

Ditch the plastic razor and generic shaving cream. You can get an amazing, stubble free, longer lasting shave for way (WAY) cheaper by switching to a double edge razor.

Here is what I recommend:

DE razor: Merkur 37C Slant HD Safety Razor $40

Razor blades: Persona Israeli, Derby, Kai, Shark (100 Pk. $18) or Feathers. $20-$50 100 Pk.

Brush: Any brush from a local pharmacy. $5-$15

Soap: Wilkinson Sword, Proraso, or Williams. $3-$10

Mug: Any coffee mug is fine.

The razor will last you at least two life times, a 100 pack of razor blades should last you a couple of years, ditto for the brush, and the shaving soap will probably last a couple of months. The shave will be godly once you get the hang of it. Make sure to get a good lather and to shave at a slow pace.

I recommend lurking the Badger & Blade forum and watching the videos by mantic59. B&B is the best shaving resource in the Internet and mantic is a shaving god (and also a redditor!)

Once you are more experienced, I recommend getting a good badger shaving brushing and stepping up to the Feather razor blades. These blades can be your best friend or your worst enemy. Treat it with respect.

Watch this video to get started

Yep. And they're pretty cheap. Link for the lazy.

Or you could learn to use a safety razor and shave for $.16 per blade. After the initial $20 for a razor.

Brush: Stirling 22mm 2-band Tuxedo

Razor: 1954 Gillette SuperSpeed

Blade: Gillette 7 O’clock (Yellow)

Preshave: None. NOT EVEN A HOT SHOWER.

Lather: Arko

Aftershave: Alum. That’s it. Yeah.

Song: Sublime - Santeria

I set out to make this the most unpleasant, scariest shave that I could, within reason. A shave that I would never want to replicate or wish upon the innocent. I’m ready for a little suffering. A little sacrifice. I deserve it.

This shave was awful. Easily the worst one since I started wetshaving back in February. I have never shaved without a hot shower beforehand. In my cartridge/canned goo days, I used to shave in the shower but this morning? None of that shit. My preshave routine was a splash of room temp water and a cold, hard stare in the mirror. The question WHY? bubbled up in my mind. I crammed it back down. There are way too many interpretations and answers to that question. I grabbed my Arko stick that I’ve used twice, ever, because I don’t really like it but one of you assholes told me once that every den needs an Arko stick and also it was like $4 on Amazon. Mmmm. That industrial cleaner lemon scent. But it’s actually not that bad. I’ve possessed worse smelling soaps. Hold on.

I used this little Stirling synth brush. This was probably the least scary part of the shave. The number of brushes I own can be counted on one hand but I tend to gravitate toward slightly bigger knots. I usually use this one for my head shaves. It’s fine but I suppose it’s my least favorite. I used a new yellow 7 O’clock blade. I’ve only tried about a half-dozen different blade brands so far and my limited notes tell me these were my least favorite. I used the ’54 SuperSpeed because it’s the most mild shaver I own and it’s small and really light and the minor germaphobe in me timidly points out that I have no idea where it’s been and I just don’t like it. I’m sending it free to the first person that PM’s me for it.

And but so there I am in my bathroom with my Arko. I realize how ridiculous I feel with a tee-shirt on. I’ve never shaved with a shirt on. I put a towel around my waist and shave that way because my shaves are wet events. Water all over the goddamn place, I need mad towels, yo. I’m in pajama pants and a tee-shirt and I’m cold and my face is cold and I just start grinding that stick on my face. I’ve found that it’s best to go with the grain when using this stick. I get a good layer on and soak my brush in room temp water and start lathering. The lather is fine, nothing great but not as bad as Conk, which I repurposed to bath soap. The lime puck really made my jibblies smell good. The SuperSpeed is mild enough that I can hardly feel the blade at all and I found that I was already buffing spots on the first pass, which I don’t normally do. I finish the first pass and sigh because the worst part of this whole fucking enterprise is about to begin: The Lining Up of The Goatee.

I’ve actually stopped doing this part over the last couple weeks out of sheer frustration. See, when I first started wetshaving, I was also working on a goatee for the first time. And I was having a hard time getting it lined up cleanly but only on one side! That is fucked up to me. That I have no problem at all lining up the left side of my goat but I fuck up the right side on a consistent basis. And I did despair.

But I read on here about a thing called a shavette! Which is actually a brand name, I think. Someone smarter than I am educated me on the nuances but I cannot recall. My memory isn’t that great due to all the weed I smoked in my early twenties, among other things. But I got this shavette. It was mostly pretty miserable. I cut myself on the right side of my goat pretty regularly. Don’t get me wrong, it was lined up beautifully but the scars and wounds didn’t help the look. I used that shavette for several weeks before the lightbulb over my head finally sparkled and sputtered to life. This is not my fault I thought. It must be the tool! My technique is certainly not to blame. My next purchase was this little asshole shavette. After using that a dozen or fifteen times, I can confidently report to you that my technique is shitty and that I will almost definitely cut myself almost every time with any shavette. Those things sit on my shelf now. The other shelf. The one that doesn’t get any light.

I used the Equinox shavette this morning and I cut myself. It sucked. I had to hit it with a styptic pen after I was done with the whole mess because that bitch done kept bleedin’. And I will tell you that it is beyond me. It is fucking beyond me how some of you people do entire, multi-pass shaves with these things. I bet you do it on purpose, too. I bet you even like it, you sickos.

I didn’t even do three passes this morning. I was on 24 hours growth so I only did two. The shavette was bad but the solo-alum aftershave was pretty bad too, for its own reasons. I’ve actually been laying off the alum and using Thayers instead, letting it dry before I apply an alcohol aftershave or balm and I’m really liking it. I wasn’t missing the alum that much. But this morning, I rubbed it on and slapped my cheeks and cleaned up. My face has felt lightly sticky and tight and dry all morning. I will put on lotion when I get to work.

Also, this song sucks and this band sucks. Fight me.

> I set out to make this the most unpleasant, scariest shave that I could, within reason. A shave that I would never want to replicate.

Mission accomplished. This was terrible. But I will be goddamed if I don’t show up to my own theme thread.

Personna Crystal

http://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Stainless-Platinum-Israeli-Personnas/dp/B002CE3518

this is why they make travel cases - https://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Safety-Razor-Protective-Parker/dp/B001O8NCI4

Awesome! All right, here we go.

Razors:

The difference between men and women's razors is that women's have longer handles and a smaller aperture for the blade. Men's usually have a wavy little comb bit that lifts up their thicker beard hair to cut.

The one I personally recommend is the Weishi. It's $17 bucks, and the metal is really light, but I ended up getting used to that fairly quickly. Not a big initial investment and perfectly adequate for my needs.

I see Murker recommended fairly often. I hear they are okay, if overpriced. I personally hated it, lol. They are definitely geared towards beards and did not play nice with my pale little legs.

You could also go for the vintage Lady Gillette. I paid $30 for mine on ebay and it's got a nice long handle, good grip, and nice weighty metal. This was actually my first purchase and I'm still really happy with it. Considering I'm happy with the Weishi, though, I'd probably just repurchase that one if I ever lose mine.

Blades:

Now this one might take some trial and error. Everyone has different hair and different skin and every razor brand shaves a little differently.

A lot of people start off with a multipack to get a feel for the different blades and then narrow it down to brands they like. I think it's a great idea and probably your best bet. I'll still mention my experiences though.

STAY AWAY FROM DORCO. They are bullshit. I'm not a fan of Gillette brand blades either except for the Wilkinson Sword and they're kind of expensive at $20 for 100. Derby is also just okay.

Feather: give the sharpest, closest shave ever. So sharp that you can cut yourself and you won't even notice until the trail of blood starts going down the drain. Great blades, and a ton of people like them, but I found that they dull too quickly for leg real-estate and are too scary sharp for sensitive bits.

Voskhod: Sharp, reliable, lasts through a few shavings. I quite like this one and have repurchased it. They are good, solid razors that gave a decent shave. Good for all-over.

Shark: My favorite at the moment. Comparable to Voskhod except I feel they might give a slightly closer shave and dull a little bit faster. If I had both in the bathroom I would probably choose Shark for the legs and Voskhod for everywhere else.

Astra: Worked adequately. Shave isn't bad or great, just reliable. Worked on the legs but not as good in other places. Wasn't worth a repurchase.

Lord: I think these actually lasted the most shaves out of all of them, at about 4 uses per blade. I think I had the least incidence of cuts with these but the shave wasn't as close as I wanted. My shaves usually last two or three days with the other razors but with this one I was feeling it lasted only 1-2. I think these are literally the opposite of the Feathers in terms of their qualities.

​

M'kay, that's all I can think of for now. I hope this helps!

Use a safety razor.

Get one of those old school razors with a butterfly hinge (something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Parker-99R-Handle-Heavyweight-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU)

and get safety razors (https://www.amazon.com/Astra-Platinum-Double-Safety-Blades/dp/B001QY8QXM)

These give you as good a shave as anything else.

You can use each razor for a dozen or more uses, and its way cheaper to replace them.

It will take some getting used to early on, but for the first few weeks get a stiptik (https://www.amazon.com/Clubman-Pinaud-Styptic-Pencil-Travel/dp/B00EOAKLFQ) too, to stop the bleeding in case you cut yourself.

You can do better for less money shopping on sites other than Amazon, but you can do okay there if you're careful.

For a razor I'd get an Edwin Jagger Kelvin. The Parker 24c is another viable option; I just don't like the way it looks. And if you're the clumsy type, the Merkur 34c is less likely to break if you drop it or knock it off the counter. In terms of shave quality, I'd say Merkur < Edwin Jagger < Parker, but the differences aren't huge. For build quality EJ is a big step above Merkur and Parker.

There are some great synthetic brushes on the market, but AFAIK none of them are available on Amazon. Which means, in your price range, that boar bristles are the only viable option. The Omega 10049 is a big brush that will break in quickly. I actually prefer the small Semogues such as the 1460, but they take a ton of time (or a fair amount of work) to break in.

For shave soap, I really like Pre de Provence. It's a big puck of hard soap, so it'll last you a very long time. Cella is another top performer (far better than, say, Proraso) for an affordable price. I've also heard good things about Soap Commander and Wet Shaving Products' "Rustic" line. Whatever you do, stay away from Col. Conk and Blades Grim.

For blades, just don't. Go to Try a Blade and get a double helping of their top ten sampler. Once you've found your favorite blade, go back to Amazon and see if you can't get a good price on 100 of them.

If there's anything else you need from Amazon, get it and pick up your shave gear elsewhere. For example, the Maggard Razors budget starter kit is outstanding, and is about to get better with the inclusion of their self-branded synthetic brushes. For $40 you can put together a kit that's a step up from the $60 worth of stuff I recommended on Amazon. But if it's gotta be Amazon, you at least have some viable options.

Edited to add final paragraph.

I'm a huge fan of Merkur razors. Well, at least mine. I bought it a long ass time ago and it'll outlive me, barring loss/theft.

I bought a Double Edge Safety Razor. The start-up, like a lot of these thrift tips, was relatively high, but here's the argument that I make to everyone:

Note the price for an 8-pack of Gillette Fusion Razors.

Now, keeping in mind that I usually only shave about twice a week anyway, check the price for a year's worth of new razors for every shave.

> FYI, I shave probably every other day and get 3-4 shaves out of each blade.

I finally figured out that I can get away with only shaving once a week.

I'm a slow beard-grower and it's mostly a goatee, so by the end of the week I have a nice, attractive, and even stubble like the ones that some men work to get the right balance of. I look best with either that stubble or fully shaved, from there my beard starts getting patchy until it's long, and then when it's long it just poofs out and goes everywhere.

I also can use a blade three times before I need to dispose of it.

SO, a single DE blade lasts me three weeks, which means if I ever get through all these sample blades I bought (I have a favorite so far, Shark Super Chrome), I can buy a pack of 100 for 16.99, that's 17 dollars for 300 weeks...

... in other words, seventeen dollars for six years. In fact, that investment is on a long enough time scale I'm wondering I shouldn't just buy a smaller pack because I don't know what my lifestyle will be like six years from now.

I think you make some fair points regarding time.

However, for less than the cost of a decent electric or one of those silly quad blade handles and a few replacements you can have a shaving setup that will last you, literally, your entire life.

Is it for everyone? No. Is it dangerous? Hell no. Hard to use? Only if you don't know how to shave. Can it be expensive? Yes, I have a $100 brush because it feels like angel wings on my face. But my $100 brush does the same thing a $5 brush does. But let's go down the price list of my initial setup.

Merkur Long Handle Safety Razor $18.99

[Proraso Shaving soap] (https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962086&sr=1-5&keywords=shaving+soap) $10

[Shaving Brush] (https://www.amazon.com/Bassion-Crafted-Shaving-Professional-Engineered/dp/B016I77CJA/ref=sr_1_10_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962140&sr=1-10&keywords=shaving+brush) $8.99

[Proraso Aftershave Cream for Sensitive Skin] (https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-After-Shave-Balm-Sensitive/dp/B008654MNM/ref=sr_1_1_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962214&sr=1-1&keywords=proraso+aftershave+cream) $16.00

[100 Feather Razor Blades] (https://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-HI-STAINLESS-DOUBLE-BLADES-REMOVE/dp/B00BDM0XZG/ref=sr_1_3_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1473962281&sr=1-3&keywords=feather+razor+blades) $24.00

That's enough blades to last you years(and those are very nice, very sharp blades, you can get cheaper ones), the aftershave goes a long way, so does the soap. The handle will outlive me, and the brush will be good for a long, long time.

That's a nice razor, but you don't have to pay $73 to get BIFL quality. Old non-adjustable Gillettes can often be had from flea markets for under $10. Those things were made to last a lifetime.

Regarding blade cost - $.55 USD is really expensive. DE blades are typically around $.30 for Feather razor blades, much less for some others.

http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-HI-STAINLESS-DOUBLE-BLADES-REMOVE/dp/B00BDM0XZG

http://www.amazon.com/Astra-Superior-Premium-Platinum-Double/dp/B001QY8QXM

Partial kit: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01NANUWT9/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (will admit, the brush isn't great, but is pretty good for a starter)

Razor: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01M1VGXT1/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 (chose because it is easy to change the blade, I've had no problems and is great for travel but cheaper ones are available)

Razor blades: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00P8NXAG0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 I got them for $1.99 on sale, and they're great

OPTIONAL shaving cream: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07N6H79HG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 It's good but nothing special. I don't have to use much cause it lathers really well. Cheaper options available

OPTIONAL Razor disposal cartridge: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00DWGEY1K/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 only got it cause I didn't want to throw old razors out in the trash, however you can just keep the packaging and repackage them for safe disposal

​

after the initial purchase you only need to buy razors every so often (75 days for daily shavers, 1 year for me) for $2 and cream about once a year ($10)

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

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.

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.

Do what I did and never look back: buy a safety razor, just once, ever, in your life. Then buy a box of 100 blades once or twice a year for 7.99.

Every time I shave I feel like I'm sticking it to The Man.

He is right...

razors = 11 cents

They do last anywhere between 2-5 shaves. The reason its less irritating is because you are not putting so much pressure on your face. This creates more of a "cut" rather than a "pull"

yea, the razor costs $20 bucks and maybe $10 for a brush, but after that, you can go on your merry way.

I was going down the same path of DE safety razor shaving about a year ago after a friend suggested it to me on Facebook. Here's what I found:

-First, you sub to wicked_edge, did you see this post? It helped me greatly before I began buying anything. Granted, if you're looking to buy second-hand, that link won't help you out a bunch. But I also knowing finding safety razors second-hand is not easy to come by. That post will also help you find your other tools and accessories.

-Absolutely buy online. It will always be cheaper and easier than buying locally or even finding locally (especially here in Gainesville). There are shave stores in Jacksonville, Orlando, and Tampa- but good golly miss molly are they EXPENSIVE. Amazon and buy.com have way better prices. But returning things can be tricky- keep that in mind in case you decide to go big on quality.

-Find a blade sample pack. They offer a big selection and since you're just starting out, you can find what you like. Here's a link to one.

Personally, I don't get the fuss. I've had a safety razor shave, and it was great. But I don't see myself taking good care of my shaving tools to justify investing in something like that. I spend maybe $10 a year on my disposables and apply moisturizer when I finish. Absolutely no bumps, no rash, no irritation. Takes me 2 minutes to shave and I'm out the door. I don't have to worry about losing them, clean them, take care of them, oil them, or buy a brush and lather. Just something to think about before you go investing in safety razors- especially if you're a college student.

Before the downvote boat comes my way- this is JUST my opinion. Sorry to put my pro-affordable shaving agenda.

EDIT: Fuck. OP is my roommate. I just noticed this. Disregard everything, I'll see you at 8:30, buddy.

100 Ct Feather Hi-stainless Double Edge De Razor Blades https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BDM0XZG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_zoGgzbR71BEGE

math ads up

u/amanforallsaisons did a fine job. However, you're asking about amazon and looking for a budget deal.

The Dorco PL-602 is the most-affordable good DE razor.

The Body Shop synthetic brush is a plisson-type synthetic. I don't have one, but I know people who do. It looks good, and should be soft-tipped, and easy to use.

EDIT: let's go with one I do have: razorock plissoft

Soaps are a littler harder - do you like fruity scents or non-fruity scents? There are shaving soaps on Amazon (Razorock and WSP) but not in sampler form. You won't go wrong with soaps from either Razorock or WSP.

A blade bank I picked this as the add-on item rather than Prime, because it's cheaper and you'll have enough to make the add-on order work if you use your cart instead of 1-click buying.

Get a sampler pack of blades. I prefer tryablade.com for samplers, but if you wish to do amazon, this isn't all bad. The normal problem with a sampler on amazon is that you're getting blades from the same factory, so you aren't really getting a chance to sample well. Here, they're at least well-regarded blades, so it's not terrible.

Alum - if you hold alum to your face where you nick yourself, it will stop the bleeding.

Witch Hazel. A lot of people like Thayer's. You can use any witch hazel you like as an aftershave - I put this one here because I'm tempted to get it myself. lemon Thayer's witch hazel

Balm. Not strictly necessary, but if you find yourself burning, it won't hurt to have on hand. nivea post shave balm

Honestly? If you use shave oil, like Shave Secret (walmart), you don't need the brush or shave soap. Savings can be had if you're incredibly price sensitive. But many people prefer the brush and lather method.

Shave bowl. I use a collapsible bowl which is convenient for bowl lathering when I travel.

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.

Start with this.

It is a copy of the most mild DE razor ever invented (Gillette Tech), it is cheap yet well made, surprisingly. Practice with this and then branch out into high dollar (even then very cheap) razors. An EJ89 is a great place to start, as is a Merkur Classic (I use a Futur but they are $75 and require a bit of finesse).

Also get this

Seems expensive, but you get lots of different blades and you can try them and see which works best before you drop money. Feathers are known as sharpest, Derbys as the least. That does not mean one is better than the other--blade choice is the ultimate Your Mileage May Vary (YMMV). Try as many as you can to see what works for you.

Get a boar brush. Get this one and then branch out. Brushes are one of the coolest things about wet shaving. Once you get the hang of lather, you'll start collecting brushes. It's awesome. But that Omega is all you'll ever have to buy if you want.

Is there a Bath and Body works near you? If so, great! Proraso, one of the oldest and most respected shaving companies rebrands under CO Bigelow and it is dirt cheap. Their shampoo/body wash is great, and the shaving cream is fantastic. Very easy to lather. You can also get a tub of Taylor of Bond Street (TOBS) in any "flavor" and get great stuff. It lasts forever. I like the Avocado--it's very slick--and the Eton college--it smells amazing.

Go to your local drug store and buy Pinaud Clubman aftershave. It is cheap, and smells like an old barber shop--which is to say AMAZING. Apply this after you shave. It puts a bounce in your step like nothing else. While you are there get a styptic pencil, as you may nick yourself early on. Don't worry, nicking is painless but it can bleed a little and the styptic will halt it quick. Once you get the hang of tings you wont nick yourself at all.

And then you're set---but also FUCKED. Jade East aftershave rocks, as does Bay Rum (Pinaud or Captain's Choice), as does Old Spice...Merkur and Edwin Jagger make amazing razors, plus thrift stores and flea markets have old Gillettes...if the hobby bites you there is never enough!

Join us at /r/wicked_edge for more tips! We are a friendly bunch and can guide you through the early stages of enjoying a great hobby.

Read this pretty long post about DE shaving. The "HERE" link inside that post has good information as well.

Some comments about the products you have chosen:


> So I've been looking into buying a DE starter kit and looked at all the suggestions and I've sorted out this much so far.
Razor: DE86bl
Blades: Sampler
Pre-Shave Soap: Glycerine
Alum: Alum
Styptic: Clubman Pinaud

The Edwin Jagger is a very good razor.

The sampler comes only with 2 blades per brand, which could be enough but in my opinion 5 blades per brand would be better. Blade samplers in amazon are somewhat expensive.

Clearly natural is a pre-shave soap which is not necessary, but some people do find them helpful. You use it to wash your face before you lather your shaving cream/soap. You are missing the shaving cream/soap from your list.

Alum again not necessary, but some users like it.

Styptic pencil, do you bleed a lot? I ask because I hardly ever bleed, my blood coagulates really fast. So I have never seen a use for a styptic pencil.

> So for brushes it sounds like boar or badger, which I believe is preferred, hair is the way to go, but then the recommendation for the $75 level is bamboo and at the $100 one of the 2 recommended is synthetic.

The Ecotools bamboo brush is a women's makeup brush. Using it for shaving seems rather extreme. However I'm not sure how its making process differs from a shaving brush, do they use different glue or what. But I have seen threads posted where people say that the brush has died on them. If you are on a very tight budget and want a very soft brush that you can also find locally, then I think the Ecotools is a good option. That being said you can get Omega boar brush for about $10 from various online stores.

> I was looking through some of the threads and somewhere I found someone recommend this set which seemed nice, has a badger brush a little cup for lathering and a thing to hang the brush on to dry and comes with little starter shaving soap (although I have no idea if the soap is any good). So thoughts on that set and any inputs on brushes would be appreciated.

I don't think that recommendation had many upvotes. The brush is a pure badger brush and it's also prone to excessive shedding. The soap is nothing special. A brush stand isn't necessary. After you are done shaving thoroughly rinse the brush with running water from the tap, shake out the excess water, and use a towel to dry the tips of the brush, leave the brush standing on its base in a open space to air dry. The apothecary mug is not necessary either. It's mainly intended to hold the soap puck. However most shaving soaps will come in their own containers. The mug can also be quite small so when you are loading your brush you end up banging your fingers against the sides. I wouldn't recommend this set.

> And then lastly, how important are aftershaves? Are they just to smell nice or does it help you skin take a breather after threateningly rubbing sharp stuff all over it? My main mental picture of aftershave never having used it before is the scene from Home Alone, so feel free to educate me.

There are many different kinds of aftershave products; 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 aftershave balm (if you get satisfactory results with it you don't have to explore the other options unless you want to).

In the Home Alone he used aftershave splash. I'm not really a fan of these, the alcohol can be too drying for your skin and they are often more heavily scented which can irritate your skin. Some users do love them though, but I'd say they are for normal to oily skin. I like to use the other type of products, such as the aftershave balm, it soothes/heals and moisturizes your skin.

You don't generally sharpen them. How long they last really depends a lot on your hair coarseness, skin sensitivity and frequency of shaving. My stepdad could probably shave with a rusty nail, he replaces his blade every couple of months. I have stupidly sensitive skin, and get about three shaves out of a blade, but that's my entire head. They've gone up slightly in price since I last ordered them, they're $18.50 on Amazon for a 100 pack, so $.19 per blade. That pack has lasted me two years shaving once or twice a week, and I still have quite a few left.

Gillette is mass producing blades. They just are not marketing (though they are selling) them in the US.

http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Double-Razor-Blades-Russia/dp/B0059QF5RS/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1418943727&sr=8-3&keywords=gillette+blades+safety&pebp=1418943730737

I got both and are awesome; Mildest Merkur 1904 less mild but still milder than the NEW is the Parker 24c

I've ordered from Amazon seller "Safety Razor Place", at $16 for 100, and the quality was fine.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0059QF5RS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Blade Bank

TIL. I’ve been using the feather 10 packs for almost a year now and didn’t realize you could put old blades back in the case. That being said I did buy this Disposable case

I got this thing for $5: Feather Styling Razor Disposal Case. Holds 200 blades and is a little safer than a pill bottle.

Weishi razors aren't all that great, and that isn't a particularly good price for one either.

Some razors on Amazon.ca you might want to look into include:

• Edwin Jagger Kelvin
  
• Parker 24C
  
• Merkur Classic
  
  If you are willing to shop from other vendors, ItalianBarber.com is a Canadian vendor and they offer some good starter kits at fair prices. The "Super Ridiculous Value Starter Kit" would be my personal pick. You get a good quality razor, brush and soap. The "Eleganza" kit is also a good choice. Both are out of stock at the moment because the brush that they come with is out of stock. It should be back in stock in a couple of weeks.
  
  If you are willing to pay a little more money to ship up from the U.S. the "Maggard Razors Basic Traditional Shaving Starter Kit" is another amazing value. In fact, I like this kit a little more than the ItalianBarber kits because I like the Maggard soaps better (they're great!) and you can customize your razor and soap selections

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

I can only recommend what I have-

Item | link
---|---
The Chieftain | link
Badger Hair Brush | link
shaving soap | link
stand | link
blades | link
total | $70.65, not including shipping (but with prime... :D)

It's pretty modest, but if you consider 52 blades that are of the "normal" variety, it can be cheaper in the long run. I still have a bunch of blades left over, so don't think that those 100 astra blades are all the way used up.

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...

Merkur razor. Here is a nice starter. ($32.34)


Feather Double Edge Blades, 50 Count ($11.77)

A year's worth of shaving for one month of Dollar Shave Club

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

Merkur safety razor and these blades (Feather is another good brand of blades, more expensive though).

Bought the combo about 3 years ago, haven't even used half the blades yet. Massive savings.

Both razors and shaver are available cheaper, and I haven't had any problems at all using this razor and these blades.

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

Disposable razors are harsher on your skin, and don't give as close a shave.
It's also not expense to get started either, double edge razor blades are dirt cheap, you can buy 200 for $10.30 here so they are much cheaper than disposables once you get past the initial cost of the razor which also doesnt have to be a lot, you can buy a reasonable safety razor for $11.95.

As a guy who "made the switch"; do it and thank us later. Multi-bladed cartridges are EXPENSIVE, as opposed to the blades for a safety razor.

Here's 100 blades for roughly the price of 1 cartridge.

Switching blades out more frequently will help reduce the amount of bacteria buildup from face oils and the like, which will in itself reduce acne. It'll also give you a closer shave.

Multi-bladed cartridges have HUGE amounts of tug-and-pull as the result of so many blades crossing your face; this creates GREAT amounts of irritation.

But seriously, safety razors are the bees knees if you can find them. Best shave next to a straight blade.

3$ for the razor: http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Double-Shaver-Nonslip-Handle/dp/B0050HO9MI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1411573438&sr=8-5&keywords=safety+razor

9$ lifetime supply of razor blades: http://www.amazon.com/Shark-Double-Blades-Stainless-blades/dp/B004RWZ1RE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1411573488&sr=8-3&keywords=shark+razor

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

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.

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.

Making the switch to a safety razor is a big step that typically requires a bit of investment: soap, brush, razor, blades. If you're willing to make the switch, I'd look at the Maggards starter kits. [Bacis](https://www.maggardrazors.com/product/maggard-razors-basic-starter-kit/) comes with a razor and soap for ~30$ and the [Standard](https://www.maggardrazors.com/product/budget-starter-kit/) comes with razor, soap, a brush, and blades for ~35$. For Canadians, to avoid international shipping, the cheapest option I know of is Italian Barber's [starter kit](https://www.italianbarber.com/collections/manufacturers-wet-shaving-kit/products/razorock-super-saver-wet-shaving-starter-kit-kit-0033) for ~20$. Please note that some people on here are wary of them yet I haven't had an issue with my BC Silvertip brush nor with their Wunderbar Slant. Your mileage may vary, however.

For Amazon, I'd suggest a [boar](https://www.amazon.com/Omega-10072-Bristle-Shaving-Brush/dp/B00KY9MXZ2/ref=sr_1_9?keywords=omega+shave+brush&qid=1570376953&sr=8-9) brush as it's cheaper, breaks in quite nicely, and has a decent amount of backbone for face lathering. I personally use a Semogue 610 as a daily driver. I've heard that the [Merkur 34c](https://www.amazon.com/MERKUR-Classic-MK-34C-2-Piece-Double/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=37c+razor&qid=1570377075&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzVDNXM1JUOUtNOVdGJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjMwNTk2M1FJTU9RUU9PWDFSVyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwOTU5NDY3MlhLRk1NUFlYMjFPQiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=) is a good starter razor. Personally, I went from a 2$ eBay buy to a iKon 102 I found cheap so I skipped over the majority of the "starter razors".

Blades are a different story. Each blade acts differently in each razor differently for each person. I like Gillette Nacets in one razor when I want a quick shave but cut myself horribly when I put those blades in another. I use Vokshods in a second razor when I want a nice, smooth shave but get irritation when I put those blades in the first razor. So take all blade advice with a grain of salt and always retest blades you'd previously condemned if you pick up a new razor. With that said, I would suggest Vokshods as a first blade.

​

Edit: Not sure how to fix links.

Safety Razors they cheap and work better then mach 8 bullshits

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002A8JO48/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1449686041&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40&keywords=murker+safety+razor&dpPl=1&dpID=41zfd7GkI%2BL&ref=plSrch



http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004MUI3CG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1449686115&sr=8-1&pi=SX200_QL40&keywords=feather+razor&dpPl=1&dpID=41B-DqjZQnL&ref=plSrch&th=1&psc=1

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]

Try this

Here's my suggestion.

Get a slant head razor.

Use Feather blades. They're the sharpest you can get.

Stop using canned shave cream, get a real shaving soap and a decent brush.

Also get some Mr GLO soap and use it before you shave. Lather it onto your beard and let it soak in for two and a half minutes, then rinse and apply your lather. This makes your beard as soft as it's gonna get.

Shave with the grain, re-lather, shave across the grain, re-lather, shave against the grain.

Read this book and go to this website.

Hope this helps.

I can tell you how to shave for WAY less... You'll save thousands and thousands in a lifetime and Unilever I'm sure hates these.

Buy this (safety razor) https://www.amazon.com/Atomic-Razor-Double-Edge-Safety/dp/B010OR4KRM/ref=sr_1_23_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1469041095&sr=1-23&keywords=safety+razor

And buy this: 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

You'll probably shave for 7 or 8 years on this. It rinses well and does not clog because you can remove the razor and wash it out. Shaves well, no nics or cuts. You can also dry the razor if you want after each wash. Each razor is good for SEVERAL shaves. I just use soap. No probs!

Now, I hope this makes this obstacle in your life better, because these changed my idea of shaving. Before I spent $ $ on razors... Not any more. :) Just read the reviews on the blades.... So many are like WHAT WAS I THINKING BUYING CARTRIDGE RAZORS???

Old-fashioned safety razors. Get em here, $20 for 200 of em and each one lasts a solid week if not more. I've yet to run out of my first pack of those. Traditional wet shaving has changed my life. Tutorial here

200 Blades : $16.90 ($0.08 each)
1 blade = (at least) 3 shaves
200 blades = 600 shaves

I shave every 2 days (183x a year)
Cost per year: (183/3) x $0.08 = $4.88 (£3.24)

1 pack lasts: 600/183 = 3.28 years (3 years 3 months)

Source: http://amzn.com/B0032Q41LS

I got this

Or you can buy 100 double edge blades for the same price if you learn to use a double edge razor instead of a cartridge. $10 is mostly the standard price for 100 blades but the Gillette silver blues come at a more premium price.

Get yourself a safety razor: https://www.amazon.ca/Merkur-Classic-3-Piece-Chromed-Polished/dp/B00374F5CY

And some razor blades: https://www.amazon.ca/Feather-Razor-Blades-Hi-stainless-Double/dp/B00BDM0XZG/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1519192443&sr=8-6&keywords=feather+blades

A fraction of the cost, more environmentally sound, and a better shave

No. I would not pay that.

Here's the same product for almost half the price. https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00BDM0XZG/ref=mp_s_a_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1480618337&sr=8-2&keywords=feather+razor+blades&pi=SY200_QL40

$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.

• Art of Shaving Sandalwood kit
  
• 16 Blade Sampler from Amazon
  
• Edwin Jagger 86bl
  
• Cutting Edge Razors - Shave Stand
  
  

Thats actually pretty steep for blades!

You can get premium blades for less. 100 pack of Feathers for $26.50 or $0.265 or if you just want cheap blades the 100 pack of Darby's will run you less than $10

I prefer Feather razor blades. 100 count is a better deal too.

to add to this... the actual blades themselves can come from amazon and you won't have any problems. I buy these and they work well for me. Some people like to use these which are very sharp, last a long time, but are not as forgiving as the astra blades are.

Get a blade bank for a few bucks from amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Styling-Razor-Disposal-Case/dp/B00DWGEY1K/

Or you can grab one cheap on Amazon:

750 Blade Capacity

Feather One for $5

The Parker 24C (or 26C: same head) is a dynamite razor for $29, and it's made of plated brass so the same problem does not recur. According to Amazon, if you order it within the next 7 hours you can get it on Friday (for $4---total price then $33). But that next-day-delivery may depend on your location.

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 :)

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

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.

already mentioned here by ourufnek99, you should give single blade razor a shot.

• http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Classic-Safety-Razor-Straight/dp/B002A8JO48/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541257&sr=8-1&keywords=merkur+razor
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Razor-Double-Edge-Razor-Blades/dp/B000JPMHWK/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541284&sr=8-3&keywords=merkur+razors
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-5-3-Ounce/dp/B0031OOHB0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541352&sr=8-1&keywords=taylor+of+old+bond+street+lavender
  
• http://www.amazon.com/White-Handled-Omega-Professional-Shaving/dp/B000CB8Q4Y/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541371&sr=8-2&keywords=omega+brush
  
• http://www.amazon.com/Gentleman-Jon-Ounce-Block-Plastic/dp/B00FA35K02/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1416541433&sr=8-1&keywords=alum+block
  
  

I haven't had any issues yet (I have a similar one I got from Amazon). But I only use mine for travel (typically only a few days at a time, and only a few times a year).

Otherwise my razor is on a stand.

[Link] (http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Safety-Razor-Protective-Parker/dp/B001O8NCI4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369782066&sr=8-1&keywords=safety+razor+leather+case)

Edit/Addition: I've had mine for 2 years, and I typically travel with my 34c HD.

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.

Thanks! A decent double edged razor really helps with getting those straight lines.

(Shoutout to /r/wicked_edge)

Непраны, нельзя больше скрывать этот всемирный проктор-н-гэмбловский заговор! В следующий раз когда понадобиться покупать очередные картриджи для денди для бритья, подумайте еще раз.

Вы спросите, почему собственно безопасная бритва, а не попсовый Жилет Фьюжн...

Ну во-первых это красиво! Помимо этого, безопасная бритва легко справляется с заросшим лицом и не причиняет такой ацкой боли как 5 лезвий фужн. Если вы иногда отпускаете бородищу - вы должны меня понять. Субъективно бреет чище.

А во-вторых - это просто выгоднее в долгосрочной перспективе (вы же собираетесь бриться в ближайшее 30 лет, правда?).

И так, минутка познавательной (и очень приблизительной) экономики.
Для удобства и правильности сравнения, я просто взял цены с amazon.com.

При условии что средне-статистический депер бреет 45 миллиметровую щетину 3-4 раза в неделю в течение следующих 10 лет, ему потребуется потратить:

Gillette Fusion:

1. Станок Gillette Fusion - $10
   
   
2. Сменные касеты (4штк) - $16
   
   
3. Гель для бритья Gillette Fusion - $6
   
   Допустим гель для бритья в год нужно два балона, не больше - это $12.
   
   Сужу по себе - одной кассеты хватает +/- на 3 месяца. Итого нужно 4-6 картриджа в год. (около $16-26)
   
   Итого приблизительно $10 + $16 + $12 = $38 в первый год и $28 последующие 10 лет = 38 + 280 = $318
   
   Безопасная бритва:
   
   
4. Станок Merkur Classic - $32
   
5. Набор лезвий Derby 100 штук - $10
   
6. Помазок для бритья Basic Badger - $12
   
7. Крем для бритья Proraso - $7
   
   Из "расходников" в последующие года вам понадобятся только лезвия и крем. В.С.Е!
   Лезвия надо менять чаще чем раз в 3 месяца разумется, но их то 100 штук!
   
   За последние 2 месяца я едва израсходовал всего 5 лезвий. То есть в год вам потребуется 30штук. И 100 лезвий за 9 долларов вам должно хватить на 3 года! Что говорит о сумме в районе $30-35 за 10 лет.
   
   Крем - я израсходовал всего треть крема для бритья. таким образом вам потребуется около 2 тюбиков в год.
   
   Итого, за первый год 32 + 12 + 7 2 = $61, а за последующие 10 лет - 7 2 10 + 10 3 = 61 + 170 = $231
   
   TL;DR:
   
   Использование безопасной бритвы позволит вам сэкономить в последующие 10 лет около $90.
   
   Надо признаться, сам процесс бритья стал целой церемонией преображения.
   
   Всем бриться, депраны!

On top of what the others are saying, check out the following:

• /r/wicked_edge -- a good sub for this stuff
  
• For the actual safety razor, I have this Merkur and really like it.
  
• http://tryablade.com -- buy single blades to see which suits you the best. I personally use the Astra Platinums and love them. Get two or three of the top ones. Once you find one you like, buy a box of them from Amazon for under $20.
  
  
  The main things to know when using a safety razor:
  
  
• Shave at a 20˚ angle (which you're most likely doing already)
  
• Always shave with the grain (you can also shave across the grain for a super close shave, but you'll only do this if you have that thick, carpet-like facial hair)
  
• Heat your face and hair, but cool the blade (hot water on the blade will soften it, use room-temp water)
  
• Store the razor on its side so it doesn't rust of leave the blades wet
  
  That's pretty much all there is to it. Using a safety razor is so much nicer than the multi-blade systems that tug and abuse your face.
  
  Now, if you really want to go deep into low-waste shaving, you can look into a straightedge... but that's not for everyone.. and I'd definitely suggest getting into a safety razor before the straightedge.

Try a safety razor instead of buying cheaper ones in bulk. You can buy double edged blades for them for like $.10 and they work better once you get used to them anyway.

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.

Switch blades. You can get sampler packs from a variety of online stores. Because one of the advantages of DE shaving is cheapness of the blades, this shouldn't be a problem. If you have particularly thick facial hairs, not density of the hair, but actually thick individual hairs, you'll potentially need a very sharp blade to do the job. I have very thick hair and I use these bad boys: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002CE3518/ref=oh_details_o07_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

well you have a bunch of good creams/soaps already so i would look at a razor and asb.

Slant

Skin food

not sure how you feel about your brush but if you want a silvertip i know there are a few parker silvertips on amazon for $60

edit for wrong link

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.

Parker 96R
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002IFFSOS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Proraso Aftershave Lotion
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0085UECY2/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o06_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream Bowl
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007MW2ZW/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Haha, she took a hour and forty minutes. I did both my legs in 15. This is with nicks and such though.. and I was using one of these: http://www.amazon.com/Parker-Butterfly-Double-Safety-Razor/dp/B003NTHWLU

I really need to try a women's razor when I can.

mid 40's shave every day.

Do yourself a favor and throw the fucking blades away after every use. You can buy 100 for less then $10 and shave every day with a fresh sharp blade, the sharpest it will ever be.

$3.50 cheaper, prime.

I bought this a while back and haven't even put a dent in it.

They're for shaving.

http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Razor-Double-Edge-Razor-Blades/dp/B000JPMHWK/ref=pd_bxgy_hpc_img_y

Get one of these, you can give it to your grandkid: http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Model-178-Classic-Straight/dp/B000LY2AKI

Learn to use it to get the best shave: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XO2gMTNnyYk

Replace the blade when it is dull. Only $0.89 each http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Double-eged-Razor-Blades-blades/dp/B000JPMHWK/ref=pd_bxgy_hpc_img_b

Only $0.17 per blade! http://www.reddit.com/r/reddit.com/comments/ghg9v/dear_gillette/c1nk6c9

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.

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.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000JPMHWK/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

This case:
https://smile.amazon.com/Genuine-Safety-Razor-Protective-Parker/dp/B001O8NCI4

i have one of these and i like it:

http://www.amazon.com/Genuine-Safety-Razor-Protective-Parker/dp/B001O8NCI4/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1451178587&sr=8-1&keywords=case+safety+razor

it's not hard sided, but it gets the job done.

Razor - https://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Classic-Double-Safety-Chrome/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1480626577&sr=8-3&keywords=merkur+34

Blades - https://www.amazon.com/Double-Edge-Razor-Blade-Sample/dp/B00UN0LUWE/ref=sr_1_8_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1480626874&sr=8-8&keywords=blade+sampler
Brush - https://www.amazon.com/RazoRock-Plissoft-Monster-Synthetic-Shaving/dp/B01E5WXTI8/ref=sr_1_5_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1484097065&sr=8-5&keywords=synthetic+shaving+brush

Soap - https://www.amazon.com/Original-Maurer-Wirtz-Shaving-Ounces/dp/B000GHYXG4/ref=sr_1_3_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1480626675&sr=8-3&keywords=tabac
Aftershave -
https://www.amazon.com/Fine-Classic-After-Shave/dp/B00H4CR2MG/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1484097199&sr=8-1&keywords=fine%2Baccoutrements&th=1

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.

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==

Buy a merkur 34c, you won't regret it.

https://www.amazon.ca/Merkur-Heavy-Classic-Safety-Razor/dp/B002A8JO1Q/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?gclid=Cj0KCQjw3uboBRDCARIsAO2XcYDn4rxQm7NrMkHAJnjWGVVbOrrqvy8sMpRrtcRE0PrBPhjFXqa_oR4aAu6FEALw_wcB&hvadid=208482290840&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9001215&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=6617579443206802455&hvtargid=kwd-488387101592&hydadcr=19768_9260447&keywords=merkur%2B34c&qid=1562005128&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&th=1

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

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!

This will greatly improve my way of life, because it will lead to a much cleaner shave and a better looking face. Better face means better interactions with others. Betting interactions with others means better life!

It all works out!

Also, Happy Tax Day!

Multi blade razors are awful. Try a true safety razor instead. No itch because the stubble is cut smoothly. Moisturizer after.

http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Classic-Safety-Razor-Straight/dp/B002A8JO48/ref=sr_1_5?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1322568752&sr=1-5

This is what I have, and couldn't be happier with it. Amazon has it for $32, but I don't recall paying anywhere near that for it. I think it was more like $20 when I bought it (3-4 years ago, don't recall where).

I have the Merkur Futur and I really like it, but that smooth satin handle gets slickery when wet. If I had to buy another, I would go with something like this.

I also bought this blade sample pack. The difference in blades is huge and it's all personal preference. I would've never known which ones worked best for me without these samples.

Add a My Nik Is Sealed Styptic Pen to your order. It took me 10 shaves before I didn't have to close a wound when I was done :)

It's really not that hard. I didn't want to buy a Merkur because it's like $30, but then I figured that, well, the blades are only 10 cents or so, so in a few months it'll pay for the razor. Pretty glad I went with that option.

There's two large differences with a 'safety' razor (this is the one I have but I got it cheaper):

1. I don't press as much as I did with a gillette. It's technically less room for error but after getting the hang of it, there's just no need to press against the skin as I did before.
   
2. I don't have to 'pull' any more. Even with new gilette razors I'd till have to put a bit of force into the actual stroke, which would sometimes cause the hair to pull (and be painful as a result). With the type of razor that we linked above, it's a heavier razor. Mine weighs about 2.5 oz according to my scale, but you can get heavier ones. Anyhow, you let the razor and gravity do the major pulling where as you kind of lightly pull and guide the razor against the skin. That said, my first shave was horrible, because I was still pressing and pulling like with a Gilette. I then went 'surely this can't be right' and Googled a bit, then found out you're supposed to let the weight of the razor itself do the work with these. After that it was smooth sailing.
   
   Being one of those who used to be like "no way that can be superior" I can see why people don't want to make the switch, and more so fork out the money to buy one, but it's really much cheaper. 10 blades costs $3 instead of $30, and there's a wide variety of just razor blades that you can try out. There's a subreddit you can visit for more information. I think it's /r/wicked_edge or some such.

You've got to go online, there are a few specialty stores that sell them, but none in town.

Also, not need to buy an actual vintage razor unless you really want a piece of history. (Not that I blame you that is pretty cool)

Merkur still makes brand new safety razors that are built to last a century.

Can't go wrong with the classic design. I love mine
http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Classic-Safety-Razor-Straight/dp/B002A8JO48/ref=sr_1_4?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1367875432&sr=1-4&keywords=merkur

I used the Merkur classic razor with the blade that came with. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002A8JO48/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I don't have a brush or soap yet, they'll be delivered on monday, so I just used Colgate lime scented shaving cream. I made a batch of bay rum last week, so I used that after.

I think the biggest thing working to my advantage was patience. I didn't get in a hurry and just took it slow.

I am also having a horrible time finding things for my boyfriend...boy shopping is soooo hard! I did buy him this though and plan on getting this, your boyfriend might like something like it also. If you ask the Etsy seller he might give you 10% off, he did for me! :3

Good luck!

I nominate my boyfriend /u/lynchmob1009! Xp

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.

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

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.

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.

The QShave - or other no-name brands - razors are notorious for their overall cheapness, and really ought to be avoided. Sure you can get one for $12, but what happens when the parts start to wear off, or the threads strip out? You're off to buy another razor again, so you might as well get something of higher quality ASAP. I have a funny feeling the QShave won't last forever.

​

The DE89 is a decent beginner's razor, and it fairly affordable. The down side is the head is cast zinc and some people complain of the slick handle and the cap threads failing after a while. https://www.amazon.com/Edwin-Jagger-Double-Safety-Regular/dp/B003LW4L2W/ If you choose to get one, get a longer-handle one, as this works better when you are shaving behind your head.

​

The Merkur 23C would probably be equivalent to the DE89. It also gets good reviews but some folks complain about the same sort of cap failure after some time. The price is about the same.

​

The 34c & 37c are 2-piece razors, so these are easier to load but slightly more expensive. Again, they are cast zinc but they get good reviews. I would advise against the 34c and instead urge you to look into the 38c with the longer handle. They are the same otherwise. Both have knurling on the handle but there are some complaints that the handle is a bit slippery when wet.

​

The Merkur 37c is a slant razor, and it tends to be on the aggressive side. https://www.amazon.com/MERKUR-Slant-MK-37C-Double-Safety/dp/B002CLDUZM/ Personally I would suggest you avoid these razors for head shaving; they are meant for rapid removal of tough whiskers on the face, and the skin on the head is a bit more delicate. If you must get one of these razors, I'd suggest instead the 39C "sledgehammer" with the longer handle.

​

I started with the Vikings Blade Vulcan, a twist-to-open razor which gets decent reviews. https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Vulcan-Safety-Swedish-Platinum/dp/B0746DLLH1/ (I'm selling it now on ebay along with other goodies because it has been supplanted by other shaving hardware.) But suffice it to say, the handle is well-knurled and it shaves nice. The Chieftain Jr. deserves honorable mention for being a mild razor at an affordable price. https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-BLADE-Chieftain-Double-Safety/dp/B07K25GR6K/

​

Lastly, my current favorite for head shaves is the OneBlade: https://www.onebladeshave.com/ It shaves like a cartridge but you replace only the blade. Downside is price and the fact that there is only one type of blade to go in here.

​

You should also consider the Leaf Razor. https://leafshave.com/ It is like the OneBlade but it takes regular DE blades snapped in half. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypMjFEgRpAQ Here's a man shaving his head with it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zw6v_rPd-HA Here's another gentleman doing the same. It also shaves like a cartridge but you can choose your blades to go in it. I like the product a lot but it didn't work well for me. Maybe I'll try it again later...

​

Okay, that should do it! Any questions?

I use a Merkur-Razor Safety Razor 37c Chrome with Slant Bar and it's a great razor. Smooth close shave, quicker than other safety razors I've used in the past and would definitely recommend it to people who are looking to get a safety razor.

The one issue is I wish it had a longer handle.

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.

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.

This sexy beast right here: Parker 96R

do this, no questions asked:

1. buy this. and this. and this. and this. buy this if you are a terrorist. buy this if you are justin bieber. buy this.
   
   
2. hot water on your face for 15 seconds. soap up your face (not with shaving cream, you fuck)
   
   
3. shave.
   
   
4. spit on the mirror if it gets foggy. hit it with a few squirts of cleaner every 3 months.
   
   
5. aftershave lotion. done. now go download more porn.

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.

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.

Ok, so that was a bit of an embellishment (I haven't bought cartridges in about a year, and I don't know the specific prices of each brand). But still, even at that low end, $15/8 = $1.88.

Compare to this. $13/200 = $0.06.

Your cartridges cost 30x more than my blades. And I've found them to last comparable amounts of time. I could be set for a very, very long time with 200 blades.

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)

Razor

Blades

Brush

Shaving Soap

Look into using a safety razor. It's a little old-fashioned, but...

• You buy a $30 razor that you never need to replace - Link
  
• Blades cost about $0.17/week - Link
  
• Shaving cream lasts you at least 6 months - Link
  
• You need to apply using a shaving brush, but they're cheap, too - Link
  
  All in all, you spend most of your money up front, and then you're looking at about $3.20 or less per month for an amazing shave, depending on how little cream you use.

Time for some gospel... Reddit, please don't use these razors. Use a safety razor, soap, and a badger brush for shaving. I shave my head and face every 3+ days. I go through a small container of soap every 4 months, and I still haven't went through the $10 pack of 100 razor blades I bought almost two years ago. I also get a much closer shave and the soap is not as harsh on my skin as the gel shit. The initial investment is about $70+, but it saves a lot of time and money in the long run and you get a mans shave, close and clean with little irritation. I spent about $15 shaving in 2011. I did cut myself really bad in the first month or two of using razors, but after that I got a styptic pencil to seal up wounds instantly.

Soap: ($10) http://amzn.com/B001RILFDU

Brush: ($14) http://amzn.com/B003WR3QSG

Blades: ($10) http://amzn.com/B003BWQX46

Razor: ($33) http://amzn.com/B000NL0T1G

Styptic: ($1) http://amzn.com/B00112WRB6

Edit: Forgot to mention, I shave my head and face in about 12 minutes. When you have a fresh razor the hair comes right off. I have shaved off 1 weeks worth of growth (think thick irish beard) on one fresh razor in minutes.

For regular shaving, I've been using this for countless years now:

http://www.amazon.com/Parker-99R-Handle-HEAVYWEIGHT-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU

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.

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 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.

With this.

> Sorry to say I would recommend against both brush and razor

That's exactly why I asked. The DE is about the same price, and that Omega brush does look nice, and $25 was actually what I was expecting to spend.

Is there anything special about baldes samplers or should I just go with this that includes 13 packs of 2 blades or should I get one with more blades per brand to give myself more time to see what I like?

A good double-edge safety razor, blade sampler pack, shaving brush, and shaving soap can free the both of you from expensive cartridge razors and canned goo. It could take you a little bit to learn how to shave the "old fashioned" way, but as someone who recently took the plunge, it's worth it. Gives a much better shave for a fraction of the cost. (Replacement blades are usually $0.07 - $0.30 each)

If you have hard water, you may want to go with a shaving cream instead, or you could get a gallon of distilled water for $1 that will last you through about a month's worth of shaves.

Shameless plug for /r/wicked_edge. There are a lot of resources there to help you transition.

[edit] Here's a cheaper alternate razor - this is what I have. You can get them even cheaper if you want to wait a few weeks.

I got that kit for Christmas this year. I'm not nuts about the razor, but it's a good start. The brush is awesome. I recommend this for blades.

They are great! I have a sampler on the way. Amazon screwed my order so I had to re-order; only got the razor so far but should get the blades in today. I am also expecting this cream , this brush, and this nick relief. I am moving to another country so I wanted to have a complete set lasts me for a while.

I am looking forward to getting better at this whole thing!

this is the one i got here

http://www.amazon.com/Shark-Double-Blades-Stainless-blades/dp/B004RWZ1RE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1416714326&sr=8-2&keywords=Shark+razor

Are my favorites. 100x blades for $10.

Marketing is a huge cost.

That's why Dollar Shave Club (or Dorco)can sell a quad-blade cartridge for $1.50 while a Schick Quattro is $4 if you buy it at retail.

If you get into DE safety razors (shout out to /r/wicked_edge) you have a one time purchase of a $20-40 razor (that should last you a lifetime) and individual blades are only about $0.10 each. There is, however, the unfortunate risk of becoming obsessed & collecting things.

The drive to put more & more blades & fancy features on cartridge razors has very little to do with the quality of the shave & everything to do with getting people to constantly upgrade to the 'next big thing' - as long as you're on their current generation of blades, you have to buy their blades and the competition can't legally copy them.

Top shelf:
Van Der Hagen shaving brush.
It actually works pretty well, and is my most commonly used one.
Art of Shaving sampler pack brush brush.
I like it, but it seems to take me a lot longer to build lather.
Dolce and Gabbana Light Blue.
Not much to say about it, the wife likes it!
Adidas Aftershave
I like the smell of this one, and it pairs pretty well with the D&G
Coates Lime Shaving Cream!
I love the smell of this stuff! I have Sandalwood too, but it mostly sits in my small chest of things I have for "Another day"
Feather blade bank
Keeps my trash bags from getting ripped open. I have been using it for over a year, and it isn't even half way full yet.

Middle Shelf:
Lady Gillette Safety Razor
This one is the Wife's she loves it and uses it exclusively after she realised how much better it was over cartridges! It did take a while for her to stop thinking that she was going to Sweeny Todd her legs with one.
Gillette Knack Safety Razor
I use this one pretty much every shave. It is fairly mild, but paired with some Sharks it really works well for me!
No Name razor I picked up at an Indian Bazaar for $3.
It has about a 2 inch gap(exaggerating here, but it is huge!) between the blade and the head, so I haven't used it and probably won't! But it is pretty on the shelf!
Styptic Pencil
It works! And gets used!

Bottom Shelf:
Gillette Travel Tech
It has a small mirror inside and an old pack of Gillette blades. Nothing real special but I like it! I haven't shaved with it yet, the handle seems too short.
The rest of TAoS Starter Kit
I haven't used any of these yet, I still have my own soaps, so these kinda just sit around... I should try em though!
Gillette 40s Style Super Speed
I got this off an ebay auction, I haven't tried it out yet either. It came in great shape though! And I plan on giving it a test run tonight!
Gillette Milord
Apparently, it is the same razor as the Super Speed, but with gold plating. Also came in great shape, and I haven't tried it out either!
Shark DE Blades
These are my go to blades! I love em!
Wilkinson Sword Classics
I was buying these guys at Walmart, and I loved em! But then I got Sharks and I haven't had to buy anything else because of how many Sharks I still have left over!
Merkur Blades
I haven't tried these, I honestly have no idea how they came into my possession. They look nice though!
Alum Block
It works great!

I buy my blades on amazon 10 bucks for 100 blades

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B004RWZ1RE/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1420323502&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX200_QL40

Muhle makes their razors out of Zamak. I'd be hard pressed to call it BIFL.

I'm going to make a quick BIFL list with short explanations on why.

*Links are my preference.

======BASIC REQUIREMENTS======

• Pre-Shave
  >Optional, depends on your face. Warm distilled water works for me.
  
  
• Shaving Cream
  >Find one that suits you. Hard soap lasts longer, creams are better for hard water.
  
  >*Proraso
  
• Razor
  > When choosing the razor, make sure it is made out of solid stainless steel. The Muhle listed (to my knowledge, is made of Zamak steel (brittle, will break if dropped several times)
  
  >I'd personally suggest a Vintage Gillette/ Feather/ Weber/ Pils/ Above the Tie/ iKon
  
  >*Weber 316L SS Razor
  
  >Technically speaking 303 steel is not as ideal as 316L
  
• Brush
  >The brush may not last a lifetime, but is well worth getting one that you enjoy. Hair types vary and cater to different faces, note the grades of badger hair in particular.
  
  >There are different sizes and a deep or normal set which should also be taken into account.
  
  > *Wipped Dog Silvertip 22mm Regular Set
  
  
• Bowl
  >I like a homemade bowl. If you're going to be using one every day, it's best to just get one that looks nice.
  
  >This is expensive, but this should give some ideas.
  
  
• Blades
  >Each razor+blade combination is different. If you have a BIFL razor, you will probably not have to retry every blade known to man.
  
  >Blade Sampler
  
  >I love my *Silver Blues
  
  
• Aftershave
  >Depends on your face and scent preferences.
  
  >I have sensitive skin and my face dries out easily so I always get *Nivea Sensitive Shave Balm
  
  

  
  <br />
  Cartridge shaving can give fair shaves in short amounts of time.<br />
  <br />
  Wet shaving takes longer, even when you get better at it.  It can in fact be enjoyable.<br />
  <br />
  As for technique and how to: /r/wicked_edge.<br />
  <br />
  TL;DR: GET A RAZOR THAT IS **SOLID STAINLESS STEEL** NOT [ZAMAK](http://www.reddit.com/r/wicked_edge/comments/20g48v/what_if_we_want_a_more_serious_longer_lasting_de/cg32pv8).

$22.49 for 100 Gillette Silver Blues, with Amazon Prime shipping

THIS. Blades like a wand pick the user not the other way around. You need to try a bunch before you find the one for you. Buy a sampler (they are more expensive per blade but worth it). http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1406215927&sr=8-1&keywords=blade+sampler

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

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.

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.

That barber used a shavette rather than a straight razor. It's more sanitary and you don't have to worry about stropping since the blades are disposable. I'm guessing the one used in the video is made by Feather. Feather has some of the sharpest and highest quality blades on the market probably because their primary products are medical blades.

This is the one I have but they also make a folding handle one. The blades used are disposables like this (there's a picture of the blade in the item description).

They are the same. If you want to save a few bucks in the long run, you can order 100 instead of 50.

Note: They don't actually come in the snazzy pack dispenser, just 10 packs of 10.

I grabbed one of these for 4 bucks on amazon. Still have yet to fill it up.. http://www.amazon.com/Feather-Styling-Razor-Disposal-Case/dp/B00DWGEY1K

Not super clear what you're asking about... for lack of a better source:
https://www.amazon.com/Parker-Three-Safety-Razor-Premium/dp/B00IDDW4Y6

​

The second picture, is that what you are seeing?

This is the exact thing I use. Take your time though, I lost a bit of skin my first few times. Find a video to help explain the proper angle against your skin. You'll thank yourself.

Shaving Cream: Taylor of Old Bond https://www.amazon.com/Taylor-Old-Bond-Street-Sandalwood/dp/B0007MW2ZW

Razor: Viking Chieftain Safety Razor https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chieftain-Safety-Swedish-Platinum/dp/B011L8WJIA?th=1

Routine: Shower with hot water > don't dry face > lather cream with brush in bowl > lather on face > shave > wash face > apply aftershave lotion

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

>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

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.

There’s also at least one Viking company selling re-branded razors with inappropriate mark-ups.

Here’s an example but I don’t think Aus is their only company:

https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chieftain-Safety-Swedish-Platinum/dp/B011L8WJIA

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.

• Shark Stainless from Amazon Canada $16.15 plus shipping
  
• Shark Chrome from Fendrihan $16 + shipping that's a good deal there.
  
  You can find them at Italian Barber as well but that Super Chrome from Fendrihan is a good deal.

Good price for gillette silver blue ATM as well http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Double-Razor-Blades-Russia/dp/B0059QF5RS/ref=sr_1_cc_1?s=aps&ie=UTF8&qid=1411282276&sr=1-1-catcorr&keywords=Gillette+silver+blue

I just order off Amazon.com - the aforementioned Wish4Blades also has a merchant account on Amazon.com (Wish4Star - I assume it's the same person) that features free shipping (including to Canada) and slightly lower pricing with the current exchange (like 1$ off, not a huge deal). Recently bought this, which made it to my door intact within 5 business days or so.

25 Silver Blue Double Edge Razor Blades


100 Silver Blue Double Edge Razor Blades

I use this double edge razor for my head. It’s not too aggressive, and does a fine job.

I prefer the Gillette Silver Blue blades.

Once you own the razor, the cost per shave can’t be beat. Look how inexpensive the blades are.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

• [Leisureguy's Book] (http://www.amazon.com/Leisureguys-Guide-Gourmet-Shaving-Enjoyable/dp/1463595344/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344266111&sr=8-1&keywords=leisureguy%27s+guide+to+gourmet+shaving)
  
• [blade sampler] (http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1344266194&sr=8-1&keywords=blade+sampler)
  
• [proraso pre shave] (http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shave-Eucalyptus-Menthol-Formulation/dp/B0082BYLS6/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1344266245&sr=1-1&keywords=proraso+pre+shave)
  
• [proraso shaving cream] (http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Eucalyptus-Menthol-Formulation/dp/B00837ZOI0/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1344266303&sr=1-1&keywords=proraso)
  
• [vdh starter] (http://www.amazon.com/Van-Der-Hagen-Premium-Shave/dp/B001A3HPT0/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1344266347&sr=1-1&keywords=van+der+hagen)
  

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

As others have said, it's not hard to nic yourself with a safety razor, but to actually slice your neck open or something similar, it you'd need to intentionally be moving the blade horizontally across your face in a cutthroat fashion.

I think that same razor was the one I started with ... it worked well enough for about 8 months before it broke (which is definitely NOT a bad deal!)

I would definitely suggest a blade sampler ... it costs a bit, especially when you figure you'll wind up with a bunch of blades you never want to use again, but if I had bought feathers (which is what I was leaning towards when I started shaving), I would probably have given up and stuck with my cartridges.

At 15, I get that you're on a budget, but if you figure with a standard razor, you're looking at ~$10 to start (razor) + $3 shave cream. Here, you're looking at $3 (razor), $13.25 sampler, $9 shave cream set ... basically you're only paying ~$10 more for a starter kit.

I had that shave cream set & the brush gave out after about a year and I still use the bowl, overall it was a good deal and it allowed me to space out the price a bit and see if this type of shaving was even something I wanted to continue without spending a fortune on it.
That sampler kit I referenced isn't one I got btw, it was just one of the cheapest I could find on Amazon that offered a range of options. The one I got had 5 blades for 8 or 9 brands and I got it from eBay.

Get a sampler that include some you are interested in - Example: http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B007OL72B8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369769947&sr=8-1&keywords=razor+sampler

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 bought this one. 68 cents per blade. A small investment that can pay big dividends by helping you to find the right blade (and still MUCH cheaper than a cartridge razor).

Isn't that the razor? Here I'll just link you to everything I bought.

Edwin Jagger De89lbl Double Edge Safety Razor Chrome Plated Lined Detail, Chrome

Van Der Hagen Men's Luxury, Shave Set

Bloc Osma Alum Block, 2.65 Ounce


Sampler Pack

I'm a white guy with a stupidly heavy Viking Beard; as in I'd have to shave twice a day when I was in the service because my three o'clock shadow was "unshaven" according to the higher-ups - using a Mach 2.

I can go almost an entire day without feeling any stubble if I shave with two-four passes using a Double Edged Safety Razor with the fourth pass being against the grain and I shave every two days now with two passes of this shavette.

The blade is where it's at.

I live in the UK, this is the closes I could find and it's a bit beyond my budget for this at the moment:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Feather-Artist-Club-SS-Razor/dp/B008CF6KMC/ref=sr_1_3

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...

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

Jesus OP, that's pretty bad. You might consider some feather proguard razors and this replaceable blades straightedge until you are more comfortable and stop cutting yourself.

EDIT: At the very least, get one of these.

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.

Ah man it's not a huge investment! They're SOOO much better than even the gillette platinum ones!

This is only 15 bucks for a solid handle. You can spend a lot more, but you don't need to.

Their blades aren't super expensive and they're noticably sharper than even the premium US brands and those you get from those boutique shops in the mall.

Match that with a solid Badger Hair brush and high quality moisturizing soap you're talking under 60 bucks total investment and it's a massive step up in quality and overall experience while shaving.


But for travel, a Defender razor with a pack of blades can't be beat. They're inexpensive, they are disposable, they last a reasonable amount of time, and apart from a premium safety razor, they shave closer than any other disposable I've found, even better than a mach 3, they also rinse super easy.

Razor cut.

I used to shave my head for many years. My recommendations:

• Merkur HD 34C
  http://amzn.com/B001LYAQ9E
  
  
• Omega Shaving Brush # 10098
  http://amzn.com/B002V40IS2
  
  
• Feather Blades
  http://amzn.com/B00BDM0XZG
  
  
• Marvy Rubber Shaving Mug
  http://amzn.com/B00E3B19RA
  
  
• Taylor of Old Bond Street: Jermyn Street Shaving Cream
  http://amzn.com/B003VZPTAC
  
  Protip: DO NOT USE ANY PRESSURE. Let the blade do the cutting. You will have to make many passes with the blade, but as long as you use zero pressure and a good lather you won't get razor burn.
  

I have this one

https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Styling-Razor-Disposal-Case/dp/B00DWGEY1K/ref=sr_1_3?crid=1S3965WDP4Z9P&keywords=feather+blade+disposal&qid=1563585480&s=gateway&sprefix=feather+bla%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-3

most blades don't come with the box, but you can buy one for cheap.

I use one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Styling-Razor-Disposal-Case/dp/B00DWGEY1K

It's about $4 and lasts me around 3-4 years.

You could pick up something like this. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DWGEY1K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_11YOAb2ANSGA5.
I saw a post from someone that used an old deodorant canister that he melted a slot into.
I go to work, and they have cannisters for utility knife blades that I just put mine into.
Or you could do that they did back in the day. Cut a hole in the back of your vanity, install a decorative razor disposal slot, and just fill your wall with them lol.

If you're looking for something a bit more aesthetic, Feather makes a blade bank that's available on amazon. Maggards also makes one, but they're currently out of stock.

https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Styling-Razor-Disposal-Case/dp/B00DWGEY1K/ref=sr_1_1_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1481912035&sr=8-1&keywords=blade+bank

I bought a Feather blade bin on Amazon that I keep on the bathroom counter:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00DWGEY1K/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_dFbWzb42W1D2W
I think it could easily hold at least a couple hundred blades, but once that fills up, I was planning on emptying it into a big sharps container to keep under the sink. Once the big sharps fills up, I should be able to just drop it off at the local pharmacy.

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.

I did look at the [Parker 24c] (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IDDW4Y6/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_qGBFwb68BM08B) last night but got a little nervous about the open comb design. Thanks for the advice by the way. I hate the learning curve when it comes to new interests sometimes.

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.

Oh, well here's the link. Price went up 7$ from last year :(

Might be worth shopping around.

Something like this. I would pair it with some sort of cutting mat as well.

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

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

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

Exactly that. Get the bulk and a decent line with the clippers. Then, use the straight razor to get a real straight line.

[don't need anything fancy] (https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0118BJ0PA/ref=mp_s_a_1_1_s_it/131-9355265-3438230?ie=UTF8&qid=1527027255&sr=1-1) just make sure you learn how to use it properly or you'll fuck your face up

Not sure why things are marked up, but at least SOME things definitely are. Here's one example. Relatively new to DE and wanted to build out a travel kit. Looked for a relatively inexpensive yet shaveworthy razor. Bought one for $33 on Amazon primarily because of tons of rave reviews and virtually no negatives. Later found the same razor available in a starter kit from Dorco for $25. Still later found the same razor on eBay for $8. :( EDIT: looks like they are $10 now.

In the final analysis, I paid $25 for 5 very cheap unmarked "Swedish" blades.

https://www.amazon.com/VIKINGS-Chieftain-Swedish-Platinum-Manliness/dp/B011L8WJIA/ref=sr_1_2_a_it?ie=UTF8&qid=1473101562&sr=8-2&keywords=the+vikings+blade

http://www.dorcousa.com/dorco-prime-starter-set/

http://www.ebay.com/itm/1-Blade-1-Razor-Safety-Razor-Chrome-Alloy-With-Packing-Sliver-Manual-Shaving-/191848949149?hash=item2cab16a59d:g:~oAAAOSw1DtXEF~2

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.

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

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?

I ordered mine off of Amazon... you can check there to see if they offer international shipping.

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

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!

You can get cheap razor blades at the pharmacy like this. Use a popsicle stick or something to hold the blade and it'll cut fantastically.

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!

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

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!

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

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 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!

This safety razor case should do the trick, but you can also go with one of these or even one of these

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.

I have one of these for a bag:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B076DGZ9NP/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

And one of these for my brush:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B005M3B8W4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

And one of these for whatever razor I happen to be traveling with:

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B001O8NCI4/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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

If you're set on the Merkur 34C, get it on its own from Amazon. The 34C is much cheaper on Amazon.

Next, you'll need a shaving brush, soap, and blade.

B&M Seville soap

B&M brush

2x TryABlade's Top10 Sampler

If you want a razor stand, get it on AliExpress in a couple of days. They will be having their 11/11 Sale.

https://yaqibrush.aliexpress.com/store/group/Shaving-Brush-and-Razor-Stand/2986023_512006411.html

The Merkur 34c link tightens the blade down at the bottom of the handle. I grown a thick beard and after a weekend I'll tighten the blade until it's just tight then back it off a tiny bit (like 2-3 degrees) this leaves a little slack between the head and the razor so it doesnt "pull" when I shave. If it "drags" just tighten it back a little.
I also have a handle that tightens at the top and it sucks for me on Monday because I cant leave that space.
I have no doubt that this razor will last a better part of my life. It is made well and I can't think how I could break it. Hopefully that clears things up

This is the same razor for $15 less.

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

This is the one I started using about 3 years ago. My issue was that the blades in the "modern" razors cost so much, so I was waiting far too long to change them.

I went all the way and got a bristle brush and shaving soap while I was at it, I have not once regretted this change.

almost forgot the link:
http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Classic-Safety-Razor-Straight/dp/B002A8JO48/ref=sr_1_6?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1317692136&sr=1-6


edit: Just realized you don't want to purchase online. Not sure where you can get the "handle" but all the other parts, blades, brushes, soap, can be found in any store with a "drug store" section.

A beard trimmer.

Coffee maker.

If you spend a little more you can buy a safety razor set and save yourself a tonne of money shaving for an unbelievable shave. A 100 pack of blades is $15-20, those gilette razors are just a money grab and complete garbage.

A thermos, you'll save yourself a lot of money not buying coffees from Tim Hortons.

These are currently my go to blades.

I get basically zero irritation on my scalp when I use these, although I don’t get quite as many uses out of them as I would other blades. You can definitely tell when it’s time to change the blade, as it starts to tug really badly.

Feather blades are very sharp and you’ll get a lot of uses out of them, but that sharpness could also mean cuts and irritation if your technique isn’t solid yet.

"Rebranded." One reviewer speculated they're manufactured for foreign markets and are, therefore, a lower quality . He said they also have a different weight than real Personna Reds (aka Israel made).

http://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Stainless-Platinum-Israeli-Personnas/dp/B002CE3518/ref=sr_1_2?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1404784309&sr=1-2&keywords=Personna+lab

yup sold as crystals, https://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Stainless-Platinum-Israeli-Personnas/dp/B002CE3518

Those blades are Crystal Super +

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

Personna

https://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Platinum-Double-Israeli-Personnas/dp/B002CE3518

http://www.amazon.com/Crystal-Stainless-Platinum-Israeli-Personnas/dp/B002CE3518

These are supposedly Israeli-made by Personna, though they're called Crystals.

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!

They do have the Personna Platinum's. Are these not as good?

*Also, are the Crystal blades they offer the same as these?

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.

> I own a straight razor, but don't trust myself either.


yeah. I have two straight razors, but I mostly got them since I collect knives and am into that sort of thing. I tried a few times and can now do most of my face but still get nervous shaving around the neck. There is a learning curve for sure. They scare me more than any other blade I have because they're by far the sharpest thing I own, and I can sharpen anything very well.


I have this slant

it's ok. I only used it a couple of times.

I use my Weber Stainless steel most of the time. I like it cause it isn't going to break, rust or have the coating flake off, that you'll possibly get with the other non-ss razors.

http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-39C-Slant-Safety-included/dp/B002CLH5MG/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1344171019&sr=8-3&keywords=merkur+slant

http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Heavy-Razor-Slant-198/dp/B002CLDUZM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1344171019&sr=8-2&keywords=merkur+slant

both are about the same price. 39c is the sledgehammer right?

If I had $30 I would spend an additional $13 and buy a Merkur slant bar. Its amazon for $43. LINK

Amazon has them

Looks like Amazon has them... http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B002CLDUZM/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1348083643&sr=8-1-fkmr0

Parker has a lot of good options such as this one. You could also grab a Weishi.

Edit: Here's a Lady Gillette for under thirty bucks shipped.

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 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.

Parker 71R

Edit: Its the Parker 96R. His is a TTO not a 3 piece. Oops.

I'm sorry to say that Amazon is probably not the best option. But if it is the only option, you might try these:

https://www.amazon.com/Semogue-1438-Premium-Bristle-Shaving/dp/B00BEJJ16K/ref=sr_1_92_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1480624977&sr=1-92&keywords=shaving+brush

https://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Shaving-Soap-Refreshing-Toning/dp/B00837YY18/ref=sr_1_5_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1480625308&sr=1-5&keywords=shaving+soap

https://www.amazon.com/Parker-96R-Handle-Butterfly-Double/dp/B002IFFSOS/ref=sr_1_12_s_it?s=beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1480625493&sr=1-12&keywords=double+edge+razor

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009XHQGY0/ref=sxr_rr_xsim1_s_it?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_p=2286650982&pd_rd_wg=JPam7&pf_rd_r=B51TWBZAJTT3F6F3ZHVE&pf_rd_s=desktop-rhs-carousels&pf_rd_t=301&pd_rd_i=B009XHQGY0&pd_rd_w=2r2Lq&pf_rd_i=double+edge+razor+blades&pd_rd_r=7B90NABQY1KPS2BV1NK1&ie=UTF8&qid=1480625552&sr=1

You're on your own for a mug. Avoid anything from Vikings Blade, Smoothere, Perfecto, Bigfoot, GoBetter, PrChoice, Spacecare, Oldcastle, as they are overpriced Chinese products that can be found much cheaper - even on Amazon - directly from their source.

Thanks! right now I'm leaning towards the 96R

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.

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.

I'd recommend you get some Muhle-Pinsel cream. I love this stuff. It smells great, lathers well, and doesn't dry out my skin.

I use Derby blades. I started shaving with a DE about a 9-10 months ago, and I'm only on my third blade, though I am an every-two-days shaver.

Good luck! Once I made the switch from cartridges, I never looked back

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!

Very happy, it provides a closer shave with less irritation (I was very prone to razor burn while using multiblade razors), plus the blades are far cheaper. The high end brand Imperial sells are called 'Derby,' I've bought all mine from Imperial thus far but I believe you may be able to get them cheaper buying in bulk online.

Edit: Indeed, Amazon provides them much cheaper http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0032Q41LS/ref=pd_lpo_k2_dp_sr_2?pf_rd_p=1278548962&pf_rd_s=lpo-top-stripe-1&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_i=B0013RZ2ZM&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=0B05WAK9Q1K3QD7S2K4K

Don't use that overpriced crap. I use this: https://www.amazon.com/Feather-Double-Edge-Shaving-Razor/dp/B003YJ70NY/ and get yourself one of these: https://www.amazon.com/Shark-Double-Safety-Blades-Chrome/dp/B003BWQX46/
and you're pretty much set for life.

You can save even more using an old-fashioned safety razor with disposable blades. Booyah.

Ah. Interesting. It's funny that you mention that because the following two items were already on my Amazon Wish-List: This and This

I did some research awhile back and learned that I was being totally ripped off by the razor manufacturers, especially in the realm of refills.

I wouldn't need shaving cream recipes, though, as I own a little company that makes the best shaving cream I've ever used. We use an absurd amount of aloe and shea butter in ours. We also make a shaving lotion and a shaving gel, but I prefer the cream.

Yeah, it's the same with Shark blades, which are amazing for the price. I have very sensitive skin and at ~15¢ a blade I'm amazed at the job they do.

This is one of the best investment I ever done in my life. 10 Dollar per year and shave perfectly (Plus around the one time investment of 30 dollar for the razor)

/r/wicked_edge will help you get into wet shaving. Double edge safety razor OR straight edge. Youll save a metric shit-ton on blades.

Example razor

Example blades

Do yourself a favor and get into it. The shave is better, cheaper, more fun, and way more classy. You can get old razors too and they work with modern razor blades. I have a 1959 Gillette Fat Boy for example.

This next one is more for your husband. There is no reason to spend lots of money on shaving. If your husband is currently shaving with disposable razors or with a cartridge based system then he is probably wasting money.

For shaving get a double edged safety razor. I use a Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor. The razor blades are sold separately and this is where you save a lot of money. Getting both together is a really nice Christmas present.

The Shark Super Chrome razor blades cost $0.12 per blade. I go through maximum two blades per week. So that is less than a quarter each week for a really good razor.

Be forewarned. Safety razors are not for everyone. Some people don't like shaving with them.

Now the next part. Shaving foam. Shaving foam is expensive. If you use shaving soap and a badger brush instead you will save money. It takes a bit longer time to lather up the soap but the savings are worth it.

You don't have to get the safety razor and the shaving soap at the same time. I would get the razor first and see how your husband likes it.

There is also a subreddit for old school shaving called /r/wicked_edge that is really good. People there will be happy to answer any questions you have.

not to be an asshole, but the shark blades are only $12.75 for a 100 pack on amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Shark-Double-Safety-Blades-Chrome/dp/B003BWQX46

I would just buy those and then sell these off if you dont like em. It would be easier to sell them than try to trade em.

edit: nevermind, the deal congress_tart posted is a lot better than mine. In fact, I just ordered a 300 pack from them

Wet shaving is the cheapest way shave I have ever found, and the best shave I have ever gotten. I shave every other day and get a "5 o'clock shadow" around mid-afternoon the second day. This has been better for my skin too.

Depending on how fast you go through blades, it can be pretty cheap. I use these blades as they have the best quality-to-cost ratio I have found - Shark Super Chrome

Invest in a good badger hair brush - it will last you years if you take care of it. It really does make a difference and will allow you to use better, cheaper soap than any foam you can get in a can.

For soap, I am a big fan of Taylor of Old Bond Street. A $15 tub will last me 1-2 years (a little bit goes a long way!) I dab a finger in to the tub and put it in to a cup that I use to froth with my brush.

From a brief description here, it doesn't sound frugal. But I buy blades every ~18 months and soap every ~24 months... I use a Merkur DES handle I bought years ago for $30, and buy a brush every few years. I would say my annual costs are less than $20. Cheaper than any other method I have used while having better shaves and less irritation.

How about this:

http://www.amazon.com/Parker-99R-Handle-HEAVYWEIGHT-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1397277399&sr=8-4&keywords=safety+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.

I have one of these for various body hair removal, but I have a really big jaw with hair that stops at my neck, so there's no need to need to get a nice one like you :(

I guess you could try and hook one of these up to an electrical outlet somehow...

I would have to disagree with most of your cons. Shaving doesn't take much longer than with a multi-blade razor, except for making the foam, which only takes a minute or two. I only do one round of shaving and I get as good or better results than with a disposable. At least with my razor, a Parker 99R, it's almost no more dangerous than a disposable. It's a little tricky around the nose and mouth and you're a little more likely to cut yourself there, but not much.

What about this one?

https://www.amazon.in/Parker-Safety-Razor-Handle-Butterfly/dp/B003NTHWLU/

Get one of these, better shave and cheaper.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003NTHWLU

http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-BLUEBIRD-Oclock-Blade-Sampler/dp/B003OL2LHC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1323656312&sr=8-1

I can't seem to find the Omega brush on Amazon. How about this Badger Hair one? It's also 1/2 the price. Any reason you suggested artificial rather than real?


How's this one for a beginner? Here.


Plus, some blades.


The beard is pretty normal, regular thickness, hair tends to curl when growing longer (hence the in-growns, I presume). This looks like a natural choice.


Finally, the pre-shave soap.


Could I get a final "OK" and I'll go ahead an order. Hoping to start finally enjoying shaving rather than just existing through inevitable experience every 2 days.

Personally I use:

• Razor
  
  
• Blade
  
  
• Shave Soap
  
  But wet shaving is very much a YMMV kind of thing. You may find that a different razor/blade combination works better for you. I got the cheap razor and a blade sample pack to start. The razor is cheap $$ wise but it's good quality. I've had no issues with it.
  
  /u/LeisureGuy over in /r/wicked_edge is the ultimate shaving guru IMO. Here's his guide for a shaving kit under $50. It's a very friendly community overall, and accept women as well. Most of the guys there that have wives/girlfriends pressure them to switch because it's so much better than cartridge (and cheaper!). I've seen various posts by females saying they've been converted and absolutely love it.
  
  Edit: I do not shave my legs yet. But when I do, I will absolutely be using my DE razor to do so.
  The blade sampler pack is essential in the beginning to try various blades to see which one works best for you. They all have various levels of aggressiveness/sharpness/etc.

I decided to stay cheap on buying a razor until maybe the holidays so this is what i'm excited to buy....
Concord Double Edge DE Safety Razor


either these blades from Maggard Razor [(http://www.maggardrazors.com/index.php/product/double-edge-razor-blade-sampler-50-blades-9-types/)
or these on amazon [(http://www.amazon.com/FEATHER-Oclock-BLUEBIRD-Blade-Sampler/dp/B003OL2LHC/ref=sr_1_4?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1356207881&sr=1-4&keywords=blade+sampler)]

and this shaving soap [(http://www.amazon.com/Famiglia-Bergamot-Neroli-Shaving-Razorock/dp/B009VZNR3W/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1368764081&sr=8-1&keywords=RazoRock+La+Famiglia+Shaving+Soap%2C+Don+Marco+Bergamot+Neroli)]
Probably going to head over to a local store and find some splash aftershave too.
Thanks for the help guys!!! Really excited to start my actual wet shaving experience! Will post how the shaves go (:

Edit: I'm terrible at posting links lol.

I personally found the Feathers to be great. You might try a sampler pack yourself.

Here is the pack I bought, although it was about $8 when I bought it. About half have been fair, then 25% awesome, and 25% absolute garbage.

Also I can't speak for your technique, try /r/wicked_edge.

I thought about a sampler, and preferably, it's what I'd really want to order. Amazon is making it difficult by having only a small selection of samplers. I don't want (or have the funds) to buy a sampler more expensive than about $10.

So do you think this sampler is alright? I know there are some good brands in there like Derby, Feather, and Astra, but are the rest of those blades even worth getting this sampler for? I feel like many of those blades will really suck. On the other hand, I will be getting at least 3 good brands to try out.

So should I get the above sampler or stick with the 30 pc of Derbys?

This is the one I got. Sorry about the link, I cannot format from my phone...

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B003OL2LHC/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1331694026&sr=8-1

Looking at the DE starter kit in the suggestions on the side-bar. The Sodial came down to $2.75 on Amazon, so I'll start with the full basic kit. Gonna grab a brush from Wal-Greens on my way home from work and wait for the rest of the stuff to come in haha!

Current shopping list:

• Sodial $2.32
  
  
• Arko Soap Stick $4.11
  
• Blade Sampler $21.49
  
• Bamboo Ecobrush $8.00
  
• TOTAL = $35.92
  
  All I need now is a soap cup for lathering...

Edwin Jagger DE with the Blue Bird blade from this sampler pack.

Usually three or four strokes WTG and ATG.

http://www.amazon.com/Derby-Extra-Double-Razor-Blades/dp/B004SGKMA0/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1394127687&sr=8-7

http://www.amazon.com/Shark-Double-Blades-Stainless-blades/dp/B004RWZ1RE/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1394127752&sr=8-5

http://www.amazon.com/Dorco-ST301-Platinum-Double-Blades/dp/B001MJSAJQ/ref=sr_1_32?ie=UTF8&qid=1394127785&sr=8-32

http://www.amazon.com/Double-Safety-Blades-Triple-Coated/dp/B009T9DFJQ/ref=sr_1_53?ie=UTF8&qid=1394127839&sr=8-53

etc...

http://www.amazon.ca/SHARK-Stainless-Double-Safety-Blades/dp/B004RWZ1RE/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1332881452&sr=8-3

Free shipping which comes to $0.18 per blade.

Exactly mirrors my experience with old-school razors that some presumably non-bearded redditors like to champion.

Fuck that shit, electric is the way to go. If you have to have a really close shave then Mach 999 or however many blades they're up to are 1000x better.

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

Everything is good except the blade sampler and razor. If you're looking to buy on prime, then get this razor.

http://www.amazon.com/Parker--Three-Double-Safety-Razor/dp/B00IDDW4Y6/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1427745762&sr=1-1&keywords=parker+24c

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.