[iends]

Can you provide a link to the model you use?

[sandmansandine]

You can also grab a Merkur pretty cheap, which is one of the pretty standard DE's at this point. I like the Feather blades instead of the Astras but that's really all just preferences. http://www.amazon.com/Merkur-Long-Handled-Safety-Razor/dp/B0...

[modfodder]

I picked up a nice one from Standard Razors (http://standardrazors.com/). Not cheap, but wanted something that was aesthetically pleasing as well as well made. Still cheaper than what I'd spend on Gillette products over a year.

[Nk26]

I bought a Gillette Super Speed years ago on Ebay. They are widely considered the least aggressive and best for starters. I also have a Merkur Futur but I would not recommend that for a first timer.