Thread: Correct way to hold razor ATG or XTG for neck?

Greetings again!

Any correct way to hold the razor coming up (ATG or XTG depending on hair orientation) the neck on the second pass?

I thought I'd just reverse the way I hold it for the down stroke, but just looking at some of Lynn's (and others) youtube clips, some hold it like a Japanese razor and make long strokes upwards?

Just wondering if anyone could send me a link or explain the best way to hold the razor for the second pass coming up to the chin (I have a beard). It hasn't been an issue, just want to practice correctly - maybe its a comfort thing.

Thanks!

Darren

It mostly is a comfort thing mate. It's what feels right, is secure without throttling or choking up on the razor (sure fire way to get cut doing that!). I can't really describe my grip without writing an essay. Someone else may be able to provide a video or a link for you hopefully.


Mick

There are lots of ways to hold the razor,but it comes down to what is comfortable for you...

Everyone of us has his own technique of holding a straight razor during each pass. I think it is something very personal and each of them is effective for each one of us. Most of the times, when shaving, what works for one does not necessarily work for others.
Try holding the straight razor with one hand and try shaving: if you feel comfortable with that, you found YOUR way to each single pass. Try the same with the other hand, try holding the razor differently, move one finger or two, until you find your own and comfortable hold.
Always remember a razor (every razor, not just a straight razor) is a cutting tool and, as such, you should feel comfortable in using it and the way you hold it must give you the right and safe confidence.
This however means you have to be prepared to use both hands: if you are right handed, you will find out using a straight razor needs you to be aware you also have a left hand and you better start using it with the same confidence you use your right hand. The opposite is also true, of course.
As far as I am concerned, I use both right and left hands in every pass (WTG, XTG and ATG) and this is something happening for everyone using a straight razor. I in fact found out - like every other straight razor user - there are parts of my face I shave better when I hold the razor with my right hand, others when I hold it with the left hand.
It is a sort of "trial and error" approach until you find your way. No matter the way, you however have to feel confident with it: in case you feel holding the razor in a particular way is not "that safe" for you, don't try to shave: you will probably end up cutting yourself. Nothing serious, of course, but it is something you can avoid.
The most valuable secret in using a straight razor is to keep on using it and don't get discouraged: the more you use it, the better the confidence you will have. And the better the shave you will get. Do not give up and keep on experimenting at each shave. You will be rewarded by time, experience and confidence.

I hold it like this, left hand for right side and right hand for left side. But whatever works is good.

Jeez, I've never given it a thought! Now I'll cut myself for sure tonight! Dang it!

Thanks everybody!

Yeah, finally feeling really comfortable shaving with my left hand now, but still awkward at times trying to get as much surface area on neck with each pass (up-stroke).

My neck shaves are getting a little better each time. Glen sharpened my razor at the Rocky Mountain Meet this year, and I haven't messed it up thus far (knock on wood). Definitely easier to learn how to shave with a sharp edge he honed.

Thanks for everyone's comments,

Darren

I'm still in early stages, but for side ("XTG") passes I've ended up shifting to a grip almost like a stropping grip. E.g.: something like:



Is this a bad idea?

Not if it's working for you mate. Just keep in mind JimmyHAD's advice to hold the razor only as firmly as is required to not drop it. A relaxed grip will save you from cuts/nicks.


Mick

Originally Posted by MickR

Not if it's working for you mate. Just keep in mind JimmyHAD's advice to hold the razor only as firmly as is required to not drop it. A relaxed grip will save you from cuts/nicks.
Mick

Thanks - I'm still working my grip(s). In general, are there drawbacks to grips of that fashion (i.e. making the scales more parallel with the blade and gripping them with the back fingers) that I should keep in mind?