Thread: First Straight Razor with pics and shave

1. Ralf Aust 5/8 Black Straight Razor.
2. 3 inch Premium IV English Bridle.
3. Black Super Shave Mug
4. Unscented Soap Straight Razor Designs
5. Ivory Brush Stand
6. Straight Razor Designs Silver Tip Shaving Brush

First shave was interesting. I did a test the night before on how to get the soap to lather properly, had to revisit Lynn's youtube video. I soaked my brush before showering to make sure everything was ready to go. I started with applying soap to the brush in three or four rotations as instructed. Once I applied it to my face, it made a nice soft coating and held fairly well. I then proceeded to take the razor out and start to shave, I did not use the Strope for the first shave since the blade was shave ready. I did forget to rinse the blade off, since it comes oiled rookie mistake... it did cut nicely though. I started with the right and and found that the angle is tuff to figure out your first time, so I adjusted according to what felt the best and let the razor do the work. I only did the recommended side burn to cheek. I then switched hands and that is where I struggled a little more. I had a hard time seeing how the blade was laying on my face. My brain was saying one thing and my left hand was doing another. I managed to get things working together and everything went okay. I finished up with the old Mach three but did not shave over the area I used the straight on. I did a comparison and the straight had a much closer shave than the Mach three.

I did have to apply soap several times, since I was so slow on the first shave.

Every thing was purchased from Straight Razor Designs. I added a few extras and spent a little more money.

I will be adding to this thread weekly on my experience to see how I improve my shaving technique.

It looks like you are off to a good start. Welcome to SRP.

Great job! Did u get the " beard growth " pills so you can up your shave frequency?

Nice razor. Congrats.

Very nice.

Roger

And there off.....
You look to be off to a good start.
Lather in sections if needed and do not be afraid to re-lather, it will all come together soon enough if you stay at it.
(granted a lot of the time it does not seem like it is soon enough)

Nice setup and well done on your first shave, especially having the patience to stop once you'd done your cheeks.

I've been using a straight for about 6 months now and I still have to re-lather before I shave my chin, which is the last place I shave, otherwise it's too dry and my razor pulls. I figure that going slowly and not making mistakes is better than trying to go too fast to avoid re-lathering and ending up regretting it.

Keep it up!

Nice razor choice. I have to say that it sounds like you are off to a good start. Just be patient and take the time and the technique will improve quickly.

I have a Ralf Aust a really like it. I think you will to, enjoy.

Shave#2

This shave actually went easier this time. I managed to find the sweet spot on the razor and it cut like butter.....what a great feeling. I only did my side burn to cheek again with the straight and finished up with the Mach razor. The shave felt even smother this time around if that is possible.

I decided tonight I will be doing my first stropping, I hope I don't screw up the edge. I'm a little nervous about the whole process but I guess the worst that can happen is I have to send it in to get honed again. I will post tomorrow to see if the blade cuts the same as my first shave....keeping my fingers crossed.

Until tomorrow... good day fellow straight razor support group.