Need Recommendations for a New DE Razor for a Newbie - Thanks!

Hi All,

I'm new to the Double Edge Razor world. It's been pretty awesome reading all of your informative, interesting posts on the world of shaving. :)

(Up to this point I've grown up knowing no better, and using a manual Cartridge-based Razor (i.e., Gillette Mach 2, 3, etc.). I got tired of paying $20 - $30+ for a pack of 5 Cartridges and am ready to make the jump to Safety Razors and real shaving! :)

* What is a good New Double Edge Safety Razor that you'd recommend for a newbie like me?

As an FYI, I don't bother growing out a full beard (I always shave it down every few days, so that's how much facial hair I deal with on a regular basis). I see the Merkur Model 180 seems to be a popular choice on some websites (and on Amazon).

Reading a bit more on Safety Razors, I think I'd want to start with Close Comb, since it is the "safest" of the Safety Razor styles (correct?), and least chance of me decapitating myself.

(If you have a starting Blade to recommend with that Razor, please let me know as well.)

Thanks!