Originally posted by: MovingTarget
I actually use a traditional DE razor, a Merkur Hefty Classic. I would go without soap if I could, but admittedly I am too much of a n00b here. It is only recently that I moved from cartrige razors, so I'm still picking up the finer points.
I would not recommend, however, going water only for a straight razor. Shaving soap has its purpose.
If your using a DE or a SE then shaving without soap or cream is kinda silly as it really does make the process alot easier...
Nice soaps/creams are a luxury, which is why many suggest williams mug soap from walmart for like less than a buck a bar, but honestly if we all just used the cheapest most effective stuff things would get rather boring.
As for a shaving brush, alot of it is the romance but it also does help to lift the hairs from the face if used correctly wheras your hand with water or soap won't have the same effect.
Like you I used a DE, and also a HD, have a Muehle on order...for what I pay in gear (soap, brush, razor, blades, brush stand) I am still cheaper than whatever the top of the line gilette cartridge is over the course of a year plus cheapo cream.
though arguably the best shave I get is when I used to shave in the shower with a cartridge....but always hated doing that as it would kill my water usage and my wife would get pissed.