If you are someone who takes pride in their appearance and is quite particular when it comes to your grooming, then a straight razor for shaving is something which should be an essential part of your kit.
Disposable razors and blades are usually of mediocre quality and do not provide the quality close shave of a straight razor. Disposables can accumulate quite a large expense, as they have to be replaced quite often.
Best Straight Razor for Beginners
The best straight edge razor can be used time and time again, providing you with a quality close shave. Equipped with the best straight razor blades, they are well made and can satisfy even the most discerning customers. Of course, there are many different types of straight razors on the market, with some having certain advantages over others.
Within the buying guide, we provide detailed information on the best straight razor kit so you can properly determine which one is right for you. We explore the different features and qualities of each straight razor
Therefore, if you are seeking the ever-elusive close shave, then you will want to read on further to see which razor is best for the job. The following are our picks for the best straight razor which provide top quality and value:
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Product Name |
Our Rating |
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Best Straight Razor |
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Winner: Dovo CarbonStraight Razor With Ebony Wood Handle |
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Runner Up: Feather SS Folding Handle Razor |
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Best Straight Razor For Beginners |
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Classic Samurai Men’s Shaving Set |
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Best Straight Razor Kit |
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Winner: A.P. Donovan Straight Razor Set |
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Runner-Up: Shave Ready 10 Piece Shaving Straight Razor Set |
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Best Straight Razor
Winner: Dovo CarbonStraight Razor With Ebony Wood Handle
Rated as the best straight razor for the money, the Dovo Carbon Straight Razor is a superb well-built product which does not disappoint when it comes to providing an excellent shave. Product specifications:
Aesthetically pleasing to the eye, the Dovo is an item which was designed with a lot of care and thought in mind. If you are fed up with the poor quality of disposable razors (which can often irritate your skin), then the Dovo is an option which should be given some serious consideration.
As one of the best beginner straight razor on the market, the Dovo Carbon is equipped with a 5/8 inch, three-inch carbon steel blade which has a full hollow grind. There is an etching of “Prima Silver Steel” on the blade which adds to the design of the product.
Also, the point is rounded, which makes it an adequate first razor and is more forgiving while you are working on your shaving technique.
Source: ebay.com
OUR RATING
Although the Dovo Carbon is quite sharp out of the box, you may want to have it sharpened professionally or sharpen it yourself with stones before your first use. If you do plan on sharpening it yourself, make sure that you do a sufficient amount of research, so you do it properly and do not damage it.
Since you will have to sharpen it several times a year, you’ll want to learn the process to ensure you don’t damage the high-quality blade. This will save you money by not having to pay for sharpening services.
This best straight razor for beginners has added value, as it comes with an ebony wooden handle. Unlike plastic, the wood ensures that it will last an extended period of time and will not crack or break under stress.
Finally, the Dovo Carbon will not only provide a superb close shave every time, but it will also save you money over using disposable razors, which are of inferior quality.
Runner Up: Feather SS Folding Handle Razor
Known to be one of the best straight razor for barbers, the Feather SS Razor is designed and manufactured for comfortable shaving in mind. This razor uses replaceable blades and is one of the top models with such a function. Product specifications:
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Made from high-quality stainless steel, the Feather SS is heat resistance and provides a smooth shaving experience which is second to none. The blade is also resistant to impurities and chemicals which can damage your skin.
The blade is fully exposed and, with the round shaving head, offers a superb shaving experience. You will find that this razor will give you a very smooth and soft shave.
The quality enamel handle is made from a specially designed resin which is heat resistant up to 275F. For easy cleaning, the blade head can be disassembled and reassembled with its one-touch spring-mounted mechanism. For cleaning purposes, the razor can be disinfected by utilizing ethanol or boiling it.
Source: ebay.com
OUR RATING
When replacing blades, feather artist club blades must be used. It is effortless and quick to replace the blade by simply pinching the razor head which will force the blade to drop out. Of course, it is essential that you take caution when changing the blades, so you do not injure yourself.
As for the razor head, it can be very quickly taken apart and cleaned from the interior by rinsing it with water. The water goes directly on the mechanism, providing proper cleansing.
The Feather SS is recommended for professional use, as it has the option of replacing the blade. This is very functional when being used on several individuals.
Best Straight Razor For Beginners
Classic Samurai Men’s Shaving Set
The Classic Samurai Men’s Shaving Set is rated as the best straight razor for beginner or anyone who is new to using such a type of razor. When you first hold this product in your hand, the weight is impressive. Product specifications:
For starters, it has a brilliant three-step locking procedure which keeps the blade tightly in place. This solves the problem which many replaceable blade razors have – becoming looser over time.
The quality of the Derby Blades is impressive. When you hold the box of blades, you can tell from the weight that they are solid.
Source: walmart.com
OUR RATING
When leading with the toe section of the blade and gliding in a downward movement, the shaving is silent and smooth. This is exactly what is desired rather than lower quality blades that make an undesirable scraping noise.
This set comes with a stainless steel straight razor, 100 Derby blades, synthetic shaving brush, Arko soap and porcelain mug. This set conveniently includes all you need to start out using a straight razor, saving you from purchasing the rest of your kit separately. This product comes in four different colors: black, silver, silver metal gift set and silver metal pattern.
If you are a beginner who’d like to break into using a straight razor, this might be an ideal place to start. Being relatively easy to use, it does not require the experience and technique that some of the other more advanced units do.
Best Straight Razor Kit
Winner: A.P. Donovan Straight Razor Set
As for the best straight razor kit on the market, the A.P. Donovan Straight Razor Set is exemplary in its quality. This is a shaving kit which radiates class and uses some of the finest materials. If you are in the market for an upscale shaving kit, then this is a product which is very well worth looking into. Product specifications:
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When it comes to the closeness and thoroughness of your shave, this is determined by the quality of the steel utilized by the razor. The A.P. Donovan uses special Japanese alloy steel, which is similar to White Steel-Shiro Gami.
These incredibly sharp blades of carbon steel can reach a hardness of 63 Rockwell. The razor blade is highly polished and has a superb looking gold etching.
For the razor to be handled safely, it is crucial that the handle is constructed from high-quality material. This permits the perfect balance of the weight ratio between the blade and handle. Constructed with a solid texture, the handle is made from black sandalwood which is from the forests of India.
Source: ebay.com
OUR RATING
Other distinctive features of this set include a brush which is from the hair from the American Badger with a handle made of precious sandalwood and stainless steel.
The quality leather strap is constructed from Kazakh cow on one side and tough linen fabric on the other, making it extremely abrasive. The razors are contained in a beautiful decorative wood box, which can be used while traveling in addition to storing.
If you are looking for a high quality upscale straight razor set, the A.P. Donovan definitely fits the bill. This item utilizes some of the best materials on the market for a razor set.
Runner-Up: Shave Ready 10 Piece Shaving Straight Razor Set
The Shave Ready 10 Piece Shaving Kit features a 6/8″ round point straight razor which ships professionally honed and ready to use out of the box. As one of the best straight razor kits we reviewed, the razor is made from high carbon steel and has been kiln-hardened, or in other words, baptized under fire. Product specifications:
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This razor holds its edge, is constructed to last a long time and provides a smooth, close shave on a daily basis. It is easy to maneuver, and it provides an excellent grip to help you get a perfect shave every time. With the round point, this is best for beginners who are learning their technique.
Source: pinterest.com
OUR RATING
The remainder of the set features a pre-shave oil (that lifts hairs for shaving), luxury shaving soap (creating a thick lather for perfect glide), smolder aftershave (antiseptic prevents the growth of disease-causing micro-organisms) and a satin tip white synthetic shaving brush with a slip case for applying the shaving soap.
There is also a storage box and a 3-inch synthetic strop for the blade. This is a very affordable shaving kit for anyone who wants to start shaving with a straight razor. It contains all shaving the products you will need and is ready to use right out of the box.
Features To Look Out For
When searching for and selecting the best straight razor, there are many crucial features to examine to make sure you are getting the best value for your money. There is a wide range of quality when it comes to straight razors, and it is best to know which is best suited for you.
If you are a beginner, it probably makes sense to purchase a product which is designed for novices. Through experience, as you learn the technique of utilizing a straight razor, then you can upgrade to a more upscale advanced model.
In the following headings, we will break down specific features and explain how they relate to your selection of a straight razor. If you are an expert at the game, chances are you will know most of this information; however, it never hurts to have a refresher course.
When purchasing any product, it is best to educate yourself on it, so you make the best decision possible. Failing to do so can leave you with buyer’s remorse and regrets, which you should try and avoid at all costs.
Type Of Razor
Without a doubt, the most important part of the shaving experience is the type of razor that you choose. By using the correct razor, you can get a close and smooth shave which does not irritate or damage your skin. If you are having problems with skin irritation, then you may not be using a razor of sufficient quality.
It is important that the razor is made from a quality alloy steel and should be almost silent when you shave. If you hear a harsh scraping noise, then the chances are that you are not using a razor which is made of suitable material. This may not provide you with a very close shave and may leave your skin irritated or dry.
If you are a beginner, it is also important that you use a razor with a round point, so you do not accidentally injure yourself. The rounded point prevents you from accidentally piercing your skin and causing a cut or gash. As you become more and more familiar with the straight razor technique, then you can graduate to a pointed edge razor.
It is crucial to remember that a sharp razor is nothing to play around with and you must maintain focus at all times when you are shaving with it. If you are not careful, there’s a risk of sustaining serious wounds – always approach with caution.
Weight
The weight of the straight razor with handle also plays a vital role when deciding on what type of product to purchase. The overall weight is important in that it counterbalances the shaving movement and provides a more effective shave. If the straight razor you are using is too heavy, it may cause you difficulty in properly maneuvering it, but very light models can slip and cause cuts more easily.
The weight of the straight razor is contingent on the materials which are used to construct the product. A higher quality product will be built of more solid materials which can withstand high temperatures (for cleaning and disinfection purposes). A lower quality unit may not hold up well to daily use and cleansing.
Handle Material And Ergonomics
The handle to a straight razor is an essential feature which should not be overlooked when looking to purchase a unit. A proper handle should be manufactured with a material which is solid and provides a sufficient amount of grip.
It could be extremely dangerous if the handle slips easily from your grasp when shaving. The better products have a resin type of handle that provides ample grip.
When it comes to handles, ergonomics is also crucial in that it permits you to shave properly without having to re-adjust your hold on the razor. When the handle is properly designed to fit the curvature of your hand, it not only makes for better technique when shaving, it also helps with the grip.
For durability purposes, you should make sure the handle is constructed from a solid material which will stand the test of time. Since you will probably be using your straight razor on a daily basis, good quality material is best recommended to keep the unit from malfunctioning. Keep in mind that wood handles are usually a bit more expensive than plastic ones.
Ease Of Stropping
Stropping refers to the finishing step in sharpening a blade, which is a vital part of maintaining the blade. It is important that when selecting a straight razor, the blade can be easily stropped using a flexible strip of leather, canvas or fabric known as a strop.
The strop is utilised to straighten and polish the blade of a straight razor and can also re-align parts of the blade edge that have been bent out of alignment.
The best strop for straight razor will permit you to finish up the blade with relative ease. Of course, stropping does take a certain amount of practice to perfect. Selecting a straight razor which is easy to strop can also save you time and money.
If the razor is challenging to strop and needs to be done professionally, then you will have additional maintenance costs on your hand. If this is a concern, then it is something which needs to be considered during your purchase.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best straight razor for the money, there are several options, as have been discussed in this buying guide. If you intend to purchase and use a straight razor, your level of expertise is something which will ultimately end up guiding your decision.
If you are looking for the best beginner straight razor, then you should wade into the waters slowly and not go all out with an advanced unit.
Perfecting your straight razor technique may take some time and practice, as it is not a very easy skill to master. However, once you do get better and better at using a straight razor for shaving, you can then upgrade to a more advanced model.
If you already are an expert in this type of shaving, then you can jump straight in and find a product which is in line with your abilities.
Although straight razors may cost a bit more as an initial investment, they pay off in the long run with a better quality shave and savings in not needing as many replacement blades (such as those required for disposable units). Suffice to say, the straight razor is making a comeback, although there are many who may say that it never went anywhere.
Thank you for taking the time to read through our guide to the best straight razors on the market. We hope that we have been able to provide you with any information that you need to make an educated purchase and end up with a product that fulfils all of your needs.
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