Like most of us, I started looking for a better way to shave in the morning. About 5 years ago while walking down the shaving aisle at my local Walmart, I saw a brush and a round shaving soap. After reading the labels, I decided to give them a shot. The next morning I shaved using my new brush and shaving soap, but still used my Trac II. The quality of the shave improved by leaps and bounds. I continued to use the same products for a few years. Then, about 2 years ago, I was reading a thread in a fountain pen forum that was discussing the merits of "Wet Shaving." I was intrigued. I started reading, which led me to the shaving forums. I became fascinated by all the talk and products that were available...I had no idea it could be this way. Soon enough I was acquiring new brushes, DE razors, and shaving creams. My shaves just kept getting better. I actually looked forward to shaving every morning.

As time went by I became proficient with a DE, but my goal was to learn to shave with a straight razor. I went back to researching and reading as much as I could. Shortly thereafter I bought my first straight razor, hones, and strop. I was ready. That first shave was exciting; my hands were shakey, adrenaline was pumping. I cleared my head of everything I had read and just shaved. After I was done, I had a sense of accomplishment. I was hooked. Two years later, I hone repair and clean my own razors. Now even my best friend is hooked. Nothing compares to shaving with a straight razor.

In addition, Mike and I began to search for the best shaving soap. We decided we were going to learn how to make soap. We went back into research mode. Now, not only do we make an excellent shaving soap, we also make a great bath soap.

The journey has been full of surprises and experiments. I can honestly say I have had a great time during the successes and failures. But having my best friend along for the ride has made it a lot more fun.

Our goal is to share what we have learned and offer our opinions on products we have tested or use in hopes that the new wet shaver enjoys the ride as much as we have.

It has been over two years now since I first picked up a traditional razor and I haven't looked back. Tired of the results (or lack thereof) and cost of electric razors and their kin, I decided to pick up the 'traditional' shaving arts as a way to better myself and to also pick up a new hobby. Needless to say, I had no idea that it would turn into the interest that it is today.

If there is one thing that I have learned over the years it is that you should never compromise on quality or results. I have spent a LOT of money trying different creams, razors, and the like, and for a long time I kept them all on hand. However, it dawned on me one day that it is to my advantage to only keep around the things I truly enjoy and those that meet my standards. It just makes the whole process better and prevents frustration, which is the last thing you need when you have an exceptionally sharp blade in your hand. I won't keep anything in my rotation that I do not like 100%.

I am mainly a DE style shaver, but I have experience in straights as well both modern Japanese disposable and traditional honed varieties. They all have their place in use, but really it will always come down to the user and what he wants to experience. Really there is only one place to start, however, and that is at the beginning.