Thread: Probably my best shave ever today

I've had a straight razor for a good 5 years. I've never used it consistently, but pull it out on weekends. In addition to my Portland Razor Co., Thiers Issard, and a no-name vintage, I also have a Feather SS. For some reason, I've historically gotten a closer and more comfortable shave with the Feather. But today, I got the closest shave I've ever gotten with a straight or the Feather. I've been thinking about what was different, and I think it's down to 4 things:

1. I was more careful about following my beard map. My neck hairs grow in multiple directions, so I get lazy with a DE. Today I made sure to go WTG for the first pass everywhere.
2. I focused a lot on skin stretching.
3. I found a comfortable way to hold the razor to go ATG in a couple of problem areas.
4. I've used my straight (or Feather) every day this week. For whatever reason, I had the time in the mornings and took advantage of it. I think all the repetition was really helpful.

Anyway, I'm really happy about it. It's 4:00 and my skin is still really smooth and there was no irritation at all.