Thread: Closing the circle, almost

I am now back at the point where I started 40 odd years ago with my shaving tackle and method. I say almost because I have eliminated the use of hot water also. Started shaving with a sharp razor, soap/cream, a brush, after shave, hot water and face lathering. Gone are the elaborate prep routines, shaving scuttle, hot water and post shave alum/witch hazel. None of what was eliminated improved the shave I was getting to any substantial degree. Funny how things go.

The reason I am mentioning this is that I think too may beginners get carried away with all the add ons without getting the basics straight first. All the add ons are great if you enjoy them but, to me, not strictly necessary to get a smooth comfortable shave. As always with things shave related YMMV.

Bob

Bob, I think beginners should get carried away (maybe just a little) when starting...... I saw it as a time to learn and try new things... which was something I never did before

Bob, your stats are ridiculous over 7,000 posts, sheesh lol

I'm with you bob; Simple shavers FTW!!

...YMMV

I find it nice to on occasion get out the bowl and build a lather, and the hot towels, and all of the prep and fluff, for the purpose of fluff and pampering. It is true on a regular basis with a good edge and a good technique that I can achieve a very close, comfortable shave, no fluff needed. Some days however, I do appreciate it all.

Originally Posted by RezDog

I find it nice to on occasion get out the bowl and build a lather, and the hot towels, and all of the prep and fluff, for the purpose of fluff and pampering. It is true on a regular basis with a good edge and a good technique that I can achieve a very close, comfortable shave, no fluff needed. Some days however, I do appreciate it all.

Don't get me wrong, never implied that for an experienced shaver doing the whole luxury bit is not called for when the mood strikes or all the tine if desired. There just seems to be a lot of beginners coming to straight razor and DE shaving with only their only experience being with carts and canned goo. For those, learn how to make a good lather with a brush and proper shave technique first. Don't mask your deficiencies in the basics by adding all the other stuff on top. It can get in the way of what you have to learn first.

Bob

Originally Posted by ecormier

Bob, I think beginners should get carried away (maybe just a little) when starting...... I saw it as a time to learn and try new things... which was something I never did before

Yes, try new things for sure once the basics are learned and you are getting decent shaves then go for the new exciting stuff. WRT the posts what can I say I'm an old retired guy enjoying a hobby.

Bob

I feel that way about the quick transition from "got my first SR" to "what hones are best"...in many cases, too far, too fast.

Originally Posted by BobH

WRT the posts what can I say I'm an old retired guy enjoying a hobby.

The more the better, I've learnt quite a bit from you

Originally Posted by RedGladiator

The more the better, I've learnt quite a bit from you

Thanks, just trying to be like most here by hopefully contributing something useful to others. I have learned a good deal from others on here too.

Bob