Thread: First shave didn't go so well

Might be you got you what paid for.

Originally Posted by pixelfixed

Might be you got you what paid for.

Yeah I really wasn't expecting anything more than a sharp piece of steel, sharp being the keyword. I doubt, like many here, that I'll only have one razor, soap, brush etc. anyway. I just gotta slip things in here and there to stay under the wifes radar.

Your first shave sounds like many beginner's first shave, regardless who honed the razor. If you don't believe me, do a quick search and you'll find similar threads involving other well known vendors on this site and "shave ready" razors vs. uncomfortable first shaves. Learning To shave with a straight razor takes time and patience, it's not like you'll instantly get the best shaves of your life once you switch to a straight. Keep at and you will get there, we were all in your shoes at one time.

Although I have no first hand experience with Larry's edges there are quite a few members who do.
From what I can garner his edges are quite good?

Be patient, watch your technique and see how the next few shaves go.

I never had any problem with my razor from whippeddog that wasn't operator error.

Rearden has summarised it very well.

I would steer clear of hitting the compounds on balsa at this stage personally, you will just be taking the edge futher away from what was delivered without an awful lot of experience to guide you on where you are taking it.

Good luck and keep at it RandyDavid

I got my first shave ready from Larry at Whipped Dog, it was a sight unseen but a great shaver unstropped. Did you find the soap doesn't wash off the blade easily? This one caused me problems with the blade needing pressure to cut hairs. I added more water to the brush gradually as shown in one of Lynn's videos, doing this instead of adding water to the bowl/mug made a huge difference to me. Also dont cut the stubble off, wipe the lather off instead. So simple and a lot smoother/better shave.

I have a razor from Larry and it was definitely shave ready. Sounds like technique is a factor. Angle, pressure, face prep, lather?? A lot of variables to learn. It took a couple months before I was getting what I considered a smooth, irritation free shave on my entire face. Stropping the razor may be different than a knife. I have no experience with knives, just make sure it lays flat and you don't roll the edge. I wish you luck and success.

Shave Test

http://straightrazorpalace.com/video...-test-vid.html


First shave

http://straightrazorpalace.com/video...beginners.html

Sounds like a typical first shave. Before the next shave work on your lather prep. Load your brush up with lots of soap. Keep adding small amounts of water whipping the brush in between until you've created a good lather. When shaving keep a very low angle (no higher than 2 widths of the spine) and use very little pressure. Try this a few times and if that doesn't work than talk to Larry and ask for a touch up honing. I'm sure he'll be more than willing to help you out.