The classic shaving kit

Now chances are, if you've stumbled across this you're looking for an alternative to that "super-duper 10 blade aloe vera hair lifting ultimate macho shaving cartridge" that runs you $25 dollars for a pack of cartridges.  It seems people are becoming fed up with product marketing of this fashion and are looking for a cheaper (and at the same time much better) alternative to this.  Recently I was given a Parker Double Edge Classic Butterfly Safety Razor as a gift and have been enjoying it very much so.  And with the product I've bought along with it, I can get at least two years worth of shaving for the price of two packages of replacement top-brand cartridges.  The kit I've put together is roughly $60 and will result in saving money, a more enjoyable shave, and for most (including me) less undesirable results such as razor burn.  Now bear in mind there is a learning curve to this method, but in the end it becomes a very enjoyable experience.  Plus, it also puts a little more manliness in your step.  Many can take this as a "beginners kit" and it will ensure a good step in the right direction. The text below in blue are links to the product, here you are:

• The Handle:

Parker 99R Long Handle Super Heavyweight Butterfly Safety Razor

Price: $29.99

This handle boasts a nice weight and a very good feel in the hand.  The butterfly design allows easy blade replacement with the twist open design at the bottom.  The angle of the head is very easy to use and learn with, and a tip is to use much less pressure than you would with a cartridge or otherwise it can result in nicks and cuts.  It's best to start off light and find your perfect pressure.  A very nice handle that will last you a lifetime.

• The Blades:

Shark Super Stainless 120 Pack

Price: $11.95

Blades are something than can be of one's personal preference, but I find the Shark blades to be of good value and functionality.  Packaged individually in wax paper within the boxes, they ensure to store well.  These blades hold a good edge and will last 3-5 shaves depending on the coarseness of your beard.  120 blades for someone such as myself will last approximately two years, so compared to $25 for 5 replacement cartridges you can start to see where the money saving is.  Recommended blades.

• The Brush

Omega 10049 Boar Bristle Brush

Price: $9.99

A great valued brush.  The boar bristle holds a nice lather (which we will get to the cream shortly) and will work the cream very nicely onto your face.  The brush holds good weight in water which gives testament to holding a lather.  The bristles soften up very nicely after just a few short uses and feel good on the face.  I find myself working a lather just for the massage this brush seems to give!  But all in all, a good brush to use and learn to work a lather with at a great price.  Bear in mind since these brushes are made with true boar bristle, they will hold a scent of such.  It is a mix of the animal and a antiseptic smell, but do not worry.  After a few uses the brush will take on the scent of the shave soap which adds a nice essence to the experience.

• The Shaving Soap

RazoRock Classic Shave Cream Soap

Price: $5.99

To those unfamiliar, shave cream soap comes in a container and must be worked into a lather.  It is not recommended to use the foam-in-a-can shave cream with this type of shaving because it is not thick enough to eliminate irritation with the blades.  This is where the shave cream soap comes in.  The RazoRock brand seems particular with the Italian Barber website and this stuff smells amazing.  The scent is that of sweet almond with a hint of cherry.  A very relaxing and old-fashioned scent that makes me look forward to shaving.  Now in order to use the shave cream soap, you must swirl your wet brush into the cream and put the brush to your face and work a lather.  This is done by working the brush onto your face (and don't worry, it isn't a difficult process) to create a rich, thick, smooth lather.  The before-mentioned brush works very well for this.  A very minimal amount of soap is required, resulting in a tin lasting you quite a long time, hence the value is tremendous.  Also note that the RazoRock cream comes in a variety of scents, I just highly recommend this one.


And there you have it.  These are the basics to what you need for your very own classic shaving experience.  Shop around on various sites if you choose, but these are all very good product.  Italianbarber.com has very prompt service and shipping, plus orders are free to the US and Canada if you spend over $60.  Other things such as aftershave can be left to one's personal preference.  One other extra accessory I've purchased is a stand for my razor and brush so they may drip-dry after use.  The stand I bought is this one and I think it look's great on the bathroom counter.

Once again, this is a method that will take some learning but I guarantee after a couple weeks you won't go back to the rip-off method of shaving due to the money saving and experience.  The initial expense may be more but it pays for itself rather quickly.  While it may be slightly more time consuming, it tends to be a more relaxing and fulfilling experience this way (and yes, I do know we're just talking about shaving here).  If there are any comments or questions anyone has, feel free to leave them below.

Take care!