If I were to chose . . .

I would choose the Filarmonica 13 Doble Temple square point . . .

Straight Razor Design's 3-in. English Bridal Strop . . .

Heinrich L. Thater's 24 mm. silver tip brush . . .

Geo F. Trumper's rose shave cream . . .

John Allen's Slick Water pre-shave . . .

Straight Razor Design's mother earth lather bowl . . .

Sitting atop the classic-style pewter shave mug filled with hot water . . .

A healthy sweep of alum  block . . .

A refreshing splash of cold water . . .

Something extraordinary happens with the first straight razor shave. For some, the experience turns into an instant love affair. It was for me.

Christopher Marlowe said in his poem Hero and Leander: "Who ever loved, that loved not at first sight?" That truth well applies to the straight razor.