Thread: First SR shave today - Any tips?

Originally Posted by Blake2430

What razor - Geneva Cutlery Corp. Pyramid Brand 5/8 Round Point Full Hollow
what age - Not sure on the age, I could ask the person I bought it from.
who honed and stropped it before shave #1? - His name is Brian - He was selling it here on the Classisfied, but he also runs TRINITYSHAVING.com - Here are the details of how he honed it before he sent it to me - Honed on naniwa stones with one layer of tape.

Sounds like a good start. Did you mean the razor left hair behind or did you mean you'll get to more face another time?

I'd say you are off to a decent start with all the body parts still there. Keep being patient, learning to shave with a straight razor is not an over night event.

Bob

Originally Posted by MisterMoo

Sounds like a good start. Did you mean the razor left hair behind or did you mean you'll get to more face another time?

It left hair behind. I expected that though.

As a fellow newbie I can relate to that. I'm only 8 shaves into this but my technique has improved tremendously between my last shave and the first one. I've started figuring out the angles better as you will too. Keep at it.

Originally Posted by HarleyGuy

As a fellow newbie I can relate to that. I'm only 8 shaves into this but my technique has improved tremendously between my last shave and the first one. I've started figuring out the angles better as you will too. Keep at it.

I'll second that! I'm on shave number 5, and my technique seems to have improved pretty quickly. My neck appreciates my improvements ;-)

When in doubt about the proper angle, lower it. That is, put the spine closer to your skin.

I have been shaving with a straight razor for a few months. I am still not to the 100 or so shaves that you need to even start becoming comfortable with the process. I am amazed at how fast I learned while at the same time learning that I had a lot of learning left to do.

My advice other than all the other advice being given is pay attention to the basics...blade angle, amount of pressure, good lather/soap etc is to not get hung up on the BBS shave everyone talks about. Start with one pass then graduate to two when you get a good first pass consistently. Focus on good not perfect at first. That's where I tripped up at first.

+1 on the Genco. Good choice. I own 4-5 and they are all outstanding shavers. Be careful or you will contract SAD disorder (Straight razor Aquisition Disorder) as I have.

Good luck and enjoy your new endeavour.

V/R,
Docmo

Experiment with the angle a bit. If it feels smooth but is not removing much hair your angle is probably a little too flat. Your sideburn is the best place to learn. Take short strokes going with the grain. First try the blade almost flat, then angle the the spine about one spine width from your skin, then about two spine widths. The farther the spine is from your face, the closer it will shave. Angled too far out it will feel harsh so no more then two spine widths for starters.

Have you had a SR shaving by a barber yet? i don't have any experience with SR shaving, so if you haven't been, i would check one out and have it done. i hear they are very helpful with questions and this will also allow you to experience a true SR shave.

Well Done: learn to stretch your skin with your off hand as you shave. A sharp shaving blade and a flat shaving plane will generate a huge grin across your face.