Coupe de Maitre training tool

**Siguy** · 09-25-2013, 06:07 PM

Maybe this helps someone.

For those of you out there that have used cartridge razors like the Gillette Fusion and still have them around, I've found this to be a great tool to learn how to perform the Coupe de Maitre manuever. I didn't know until I reached this form and SR shaving that I had actually been performing this maneuver with my Fusion.

Name: 2013-09-25 13.53.05.jpg
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Name: 2013-09-25 13.53.05.jpg
Views: 234
Size: 25.3 KB

Great how-to video from a member here:

http://straightrazorpalace.com/video...de-maitre.html

Cheers

**Ryan82** · 09-26-2013, 12:12 AM

LX Emergency's video is indeed a great demonstration of the coup de maître. But in all honesty performing the CdM with a Fusion (or any cartridge razor) is nothing at all like using a straight razor. For one, the Fusion has a pivoting head that conforms to the skin it's shaving, whereas with a SR YOU have to control the angle, pressure and speed - all coordinated so you don't cut yourself.

I'm not trying to crap on you, but I don't see the connection unless there's something I'm missing?

**Siguy** · 09-26-2013, 12:39 AM

Have you tried it? It seems to have been a great help for me.

After doing it for years, I've developed the concentration, the control and muscle memory, the articulating motion from using this razor. Albeit, its not the same articulating motion.

I'm pretty sure I wouldn't be able to as confidently perform the CdM without having done this for so long. I can even do it dry with no worries.

Like I said, might be useful for someone to get the feel of the razor beneath their snout.

Take care, Ryan82.

**Phrank** · 09-26-2013, 04:47 AM

This video is called, Coup de Willi, he's an old member on this forum:

The Manliest Shave Ever!! - YouTube

**Siguy** · 09-26-2013, 04:54 PM

Thanks, Phrank.

I love this video. I reposted somewhere a few weeks ago while browsing the Videos sub-forum. Its obviously not Willi's first week at the rodeo. The word that best described my reaction when first watching this:

SHOCK!!!

**Kees** · 09-26-2013, 04:58 PM

For me shaving the upper lip against the grain, towards the nose is much more of a challenge. I never cut myself going with the grain but I did survive quite a few cuts just below the nose shaving against the grain.

**Siguy** · 09-26-2013, 05:00 PM

Originally Posted by Ryan82

For one, the Fusion has a pivoting head that conforms to the skin it's shaving, whereas with a SR YOU have to control the angle, pressure and speed - all coordinated so you don't cut yourself.

@Ryan82,

An important note that I'd forgotten to add this to my reply to your comments.

The single razor at the top of the fusion is NOT on the articulating side of the cartridge head. There is NO pivoting motion.

You must turn the razor 180 degrees in your hand(the opposite side of the pivoting head) to use it. I'd imagine the mechanics would be quite similar to using a DE razor(haven't used one myself though).

Regards,

**Siguy** · 09-26-2013, 05:18 PM

Originally Posted by Kees

For me shaving the upper lip against the grain, towards the nose is much more of a challenge. I never cut myself going with the grain but I did survive quite a few cuts just below the nose shaving against the grain.

I haven't even attempted that.... yet. Having had my first 6 shaves with a torturous edge and finally having a good shave with another SR, I'm learning that going slow is good enough for me. The ole "Leave it alone, it'll grow, son" axiom.