Thread: 1 month later....

Another beginner here. My very first straight razor shave was from a cartridge to a straight razor (least you used a shavette before switching) and just to do a WTG 1 pass shave it took me roughly 35 mins. So you're absolutely fine on timing. Now I can do a 2 pass pass shave in about 17 mins, 1 pass in 7. You'll know everything's working like it is supposed to when it doesn't pull, smooth finish etc. Take it slow and you'll see the results you want to see in time.

With the regards to the neck many have already stated it before but reiteration is good. That's probably some error in your technique that needs to be corrected. No big deal just really focus on that angle, stretching the skin really well and take the time to map out the growth for a really effective shave.

I still learn something new every shave I do and I've been shaving for a total about 5 months (I grow a beard in late fall/winter.) You'll get it; take pride in doing something not a big number of men do.

-MusicMan95

Wow.... so long? Hmmm..... as a beginner who hasn't even bought a razor yet, this sort of makes me rethink the benefit of using a straight razor. 1.) It will cost several hundred dollars to get a decent set of equipment. 2.) Even with a good razor and peripherals, some small mistake or oversight might nullify any benefit vs. store bough safety razors. 3.) I shave in the morning before going to work, time is precious.

45 minutes is not uncommon for a beginner. Don't worry about that. You will become faster with practice without needing to think about it.

If you have a good edge you might want to practice on getting the right angle and direction as well as stretching your skin in a good way.

Originally Posted by GrumpyCat

Wow.... so long? Hmmm..... as a beginner who hasn't even bought a razor yet, this sort of makes me rethink the benefit of using a straight razor. 1.) It will cost several hundred dollars to get a decent set of equipment. 2.) Even with a good razor and peripherals, some small mistake or oversight might nullify any benefit vs. store bough safety razors. 3.) I shave in the morning before going to work, time is precious.

If time is precious in the morning I would recommend shaving in the evening to start with. After a while you will be quick enough to shave in the morning. Or if time is short in the evening as well a weekend shave might be a better option. But with a little practice a morning shave wont be a problem

Saving time is definitely *not* one of the benefits of straight razor shaving. For me I love the fact that I'm shaving with an implement that I maintain myself (honing and stropping) instead of a disposable piece of plastic. I love the act of creating lather from a tiny bit of soap or cream and re-using the same brush(es) for years. And most of all I love the super close and comfortable shaves I get from a straight. Yes, it takes a few minutes longer but it has become a soothing ritual for me and I can't imagine life without it!

I used Col. Conk soap when I was a newbie and its very entry level. Pay $11 a puck of soap from the vendors and you will be so spoiled.

Have fun and keep enjoying the journey! You have been well advised here. I do remember it taking 45 minutes and being all red faced about it!

Pabster