tarheelgamecock said:
I haven't tried it myself yet, but I've read a lot about the high quality shave you can get with a safety razor. From what I gather, the short-term costs are high, but you spend a lot less in the long run and you get a better shave than you do with the multiblade razors. This site has a pretty good rundown...
http://artofmanliness.com/2008/01/04/how-to-shave-like-your-grandpa/
I use a safety razor. An old Gillette Fat Boy. Drop in an inexpensive double-edged blade after every five shaves and you're good to go. I also use the shaving brush with the mug. It's my grandfather's; he wrote the date on the brush box when he purchased it (1957.) Works and feels great.
(For what it's worth, Prorasso pre-shave cream and Geo. F. Trumper's shave cream make you feel and smell like a million bucks. I buy both at Amazon, and they last much longer than the crap you buy at the supermarket.)
I'll say this ... the first time I used the safety razor I looked like I dotted myself with a red marker all over my face and neck. It HURT! But the next time was better, and better still after that. Definitely makes shaving an enjoyable part of the day.