Thread: First time with a straight

I have been wet shaving with a DE for about 3 months now but the nostalgia and mystique of a straight razor got to me. I bought 2 nice Dovo 5/8 straights and a strop from Jim at Vintage Blades LLC. He was extremely helpful and took quite a bit of time with me to pick out the razors and strop. I received his package yesterday and when I got home from work I had to try out one of the straights. Both razors were honed by Lynn, so I knew I should get a decent shave, even my first time. I did a two pass shave, being very careful with my blade angle and got a pretty decent shave with only one nick, which I think is pretty good for my first straight shave. Tonight I stropped that razor for the first time using Lynn's technique from his video. Again I did a two pass shave. I felt a little more confident the second time and the end result was a better shave with zero nicks, weepers or irritation. I know it will take time to master the straight shave, honing and stropping but I am enjoying using the straight and I feel very encouraged after the first two shaves. You guys are great and I've picked up a lot of good tips and information here.

Congrats, You look better with your first shave than I did. You are doing very well to get through shaves like you have. Just remember, Go slow, and pay attention. Loose your focus, and STR8's will bite.

Phil

Don't ya just love it when things come together

Congrats on the new shaves, as stated, watch that blade. The second you don't respect it, it bites ya.

Not that you will, but when thing go to smoothly at first it is easy to loose focus now and again...

Str8 shaving keeps you humble. Slow and steady...and lots of hot water on the face.

Welcome to our addiction!



Greg

Congrats John. Sounds like you've made a great start. Be patient and it will all come together.

Jordan

Thanks for the words of encouragement everyone.