I got into this a couple of years ago. I find a lot of similarities with pipe smoking
Just like pipe smoking you can make it as cheap or as costly you would want to be
1. If you are on a budget a Arko stick would do a fair job. However I found that “Art Of Shaving” though pricey is second to none. It is what I used the most. Taylor Of Old Bond Street is also in my regular rotation. Proraso is also reasonably good. In terms of value Bergamot and Thyme is exceptional but I use it less often since it takes time to bloom the soap properly
2. I did not use a variety of razors but Henson AL13-M is exceptional, compared to the only other one I used the Mercur 34C. The Henson is so good, I no longer feel the need to buy anything else
3. I find the feather blades very good like most. However BIC Platinum Chrome and Gillette Nacet are even sharper and works even better than feather
4. I also use Art of Shaving pre shave oil
5. Finish off with an alum block
6. I would occasionally use a variety of old timey aftershaves for nostalgia , but a Nivea balm is quite good, and does not conflict with my perfumes
7. I forgot to talk about brushes. I like badger brushes. I have a few of different grades, all of which are excellent. I also have a boar brush which works reasonably well. Again, Parker Shaving is the one I tried and they worked so well, I kept on buying till I got a rotation.