Thread: Almost ready to give it up

Originally Posted by jrudd

I was there just a week ago, I had the most horrible experience of my shaving life. I fealt as though I was a teenager who is shaving for the first time. I had the worst razor burn in the history of razor burn. My face looked like a plump juicy red apple.

I re-read a bunch of posts and tweaked a few things and followed advice. I tried again, concentrating on pressure mainly. I only did one pass with very light pressure. My pressure was so light it fealt unnatural and I thought there was no way I am taking off hair. It was comfortable though and I was surprised that I was shaving. I ended up with closer, more comfortable shave than I had to date with my straight. I have a lot more work and more practice but I fealt that I am actually moving forward.

I've been shaving with my straights for a year, and I still have trouble with this. No matter how many times I get a close and comfortable shave with little to no pressure, I always catch myself trying to revert to the old habit of relying on pressure instead of letting the razor do it's job. It's especially tempting when the blade gets to the point it needs a touch up and I'm feeling to lazy to re-strop with CrOx or take the razor back to the finishing hone for a few strokes.

Still, it beats any shave I ever got with a disposable, so I've stuck with it. With time and practice things will improve. I might suggest obtaining a barber's hone to make blade maintenance a little easier. Maybe take BeJay up on his offer. Don't give up on it Bruce. If you quit, the terrorists win!

You cant rush experience....a little but often...I know people on this site are sick of me saying this.
You will be fine. let us know in 2 months how much better the shave is.