Thread: Dovo Bismarck 6/8

Thank you all for the feed back and the nice welcoming.

I think that the Bismarck is a thing of beauty and I am glad to hear that it is also a good piece.

I went from a 4 minute time shave with DE to a 30 minute time shave with a shavette so my morning will get even longer with a real straight razor when I add the prep time of the razor....

I am curious to know how long does it take you, experienced guys, to shave...

Thanks

Icarusflies,

Welcome to Straight Razor Place, and thank you for asking questions and listening to the answers. I share some of my thoughts with you:

You seem to focus excessively on how much time your straight razor shave will take, whereas you need to throw away the clock and concentrate on honing your skill regardless of time spent. Remember, the traditional straight razor is a completely different experience from the straight razor with replaceable blades, or the double edge razor. You, therefore, need to concentrate on a specific set of nuances for the traditional straight, including the proper method of stropping the blade.

I am not sure the Bismark 6/8 is a great idea for a beginner. Yes, of course, it's a handsome razor. I had one in the early years, and although I liked the razor, the thumb notch threw off my balance, especially when stropping. This could be a consideration for some beginners. It was for me, but it might not be for you, I don't know. Still, it is worth thinking about it.

Either way, please make sure you purchase a quality razor and strop. No, they need not be too expensive. What's more, do not buy sight unseen; rather, see what you are buying. Beyond that, please make sure to read on the subject, and watch quality videos. About 90 percent of straight razor shaving videos are not very good — in just about every way. The one set of good videos you especially should watch are these made by Lynn Abrams, because he knows everything there is to know about straight razor shaving and his videos reflect that.

The best of luck. We are delighted to have you with us.

Originally Posted by Obie

Icarusflies,

Welcome to Straight Razor Place, and thank you for asking questions and listening to the answers. I share some of my thoughts with you:

You seem to focus excessively on how much time your straight razor shave will take, whereas you need to throw away the clock and concentrate on honing your skill regardless of time spent. Remember, the traditional straight razor is a completely different experience from the straight razor with replaceable blades, or the double edge razor. You, therefore, need to concentrate on a specific set of nuances for the traditional straight, including the proper method of stropping the blade.

I am not sure the Bismark 6/8 is a great idea for a beginner. Yes, of course, it's a handsome razor. I had one in the early years, and although I liked the razor, the thumb notch threw off my balance, especially when stropping. This could be a consideration for some beginners. It was for me, but it might not be for you, I don't know. Still, it is worth thinking about it.

Either way, please make sure you purchase a quality razor and strop. No, they need not be too expensive. What's more, do not buy sight unseen; rather, see what you are buying. Beyond that, please make sure to read on the subject, and watch quality videos. About 90 percent of straight razor shaving videos are not very good — in just about every way. The one set of good videos you especially should watch are these made by Lynn Abrams, because he knows everything there is to know about straight razor shaving and his videos reflect that.

The best of luck. We are delighted to have you with us.

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it.

What Dovo razor would you recommend or better said, what characteristics should I look for in a straight razor.

Originally Posted by Icarusflies

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it.

What Dovo razor would you recommend or better said, what characteristics should I look for in a straight razor.

Icaruflies,

Choose a Dovo, Thiers-Issard, Boker or Ralf Aust in a 5/8 or 6/8 blade with round point and standard shank. Also, don't forget that the scales are secondary to blade quality. Not only that, but make sure the razor comes to you shave ready. If I were to recommend one of the razors mentioned above over the others, it would be Ralf Aust. Start with the 5/8; I have that razor and it's a sweet one. Also, buy a quality 3" strop and learn to strop well.

Including stropping and lathering the soap, I can get away with a pretty decent 2 pass shave in about 15 to 20 mins. I'm usually in there for about an hour though chasing that BBS. But after the 2 passes, no one can tell the difference. Not unless they are rub on my face. But I'm still in my learning phase though. I'm still trying to map out my most efficient shaving route.

Thank you all for the feedback!!!

Would you say than a wood handle would be significantly harder to maintain than a plastic one as I think the Bismarck has.

Thanks

Great! Thanks for all this very useful info.

Can I ask the same question about what kind of Strop should I get.

I suppose I should not even get close from a honing stone at this stage....

Is there something else that I would need to take care of the straight razor?

Thanks again

Originally Posted by Icarusflies

Great! Thanks for all this very useful info.

Can I ask the same question about what kind of Strop should I get.

I suppose I should not even get close from a honing stone at this stage....

Is there something else that I would need to take care of the straight razor?

Thanks again

Icarusflies,

There are a variety of leathers and finishes for your strop, and in a range of prices. I like a strop with a light to medium draw and, therefore, suggest the 3" English bridle strop (short). If you want a heavier draw, go with the latigo. Either way, buy quality. Yes, there is a chance you might cut your strop. Then again, you might not. Strop slowly and carefully and you'll be fine. If you cut your strop, consider as part of the learning curve and purchase another strop, or buy a replacement part for the cut strop.

I know there is a lot of enthusiasm for the Bismarck, and I'm sure it is a fine razor; however, you asked for opinions so I'll give you mine.

As a first SR, that is NOT the way I would go. You're paying extra for the fancy spine and Gold wash as well as the "flair" of the design in the tang and thumb notch, which as Obie has said can cause complications for a new SR shaver. I have 11 SRs, and each feels a little different in my hand. If I were you, I'd start with one of the less "dramatic" designs like a 5/8 or 6/8 Ralf Aust or Boker. Both can be had for less than the Bismarck and are more "standard" designs. I also think the Austs can't be beat for quality and value. If you're hung up on Dovo, go less fancy for starters. This probably won't be your last purchase of a SR.

Like I said, JMO. Whatever you do, enjoy yourself!