Thread: How to know if Razor is "Shave Ready"

I've bought a strop, razor, shaving cream, badger brush. Everything apart from a hone (though I read that you only need to hone, two or three times a year so I don't think it's too urgent just yet). From reading the FAQ I see that sometimes the blade isn't shave ready. Before my maiden voyage, how do I find out if my blade is shave ready. Is there some test I can do?

Also I've downloaded a couple of PDF's from this site. What should I read first, before D-day?

Welcome.

Best way would be to test shave with it.

Most everyone here recommends watching Lynn's video. I would second that.

I've seen a few videos on YouTube to get an idea. Going to be scary the first time. Just wanted to make sure it was sharp enough.

only do your cheeks the first few times. don't go trying to shave your neck or chin with a razor that may or may not be up to the task. those areas are tricky enough with a sharp razor.


on the other hand, if the razor isn't up to par, doing your cheeks wtg will not result in a bloodbath, so start there.

Do you strop DURING the shave or only before and after?

One other question is, I currently have some shaving cream in a tub with a screw on lid. Vulfix Sicilian Lime. Should I still use a cup for whipping up the cream with the brush? So far I've just been dipping the brush in the tub. Been testing the brush and cream whilst still using a normal razor before I take the plunge with all the toys at once!

Originally Posted by longshanks

Do you strop DURING the shave or only before and after?

One other question is, I currently have some shaving cream in a tub with a screw on lid. Vulfix Sicilian Lime. Should I still use a cup for whipping up the cream with the brush? So far I've just been dipping the brush in the tub. Been testing the brush and cream whilst still using a normal razor before I take the plunge with all the toys at once!

everyone is different. i do 20 linen laps, 40 leather laps, do my first pass, another 20 leather laps, then second pass and touch-up.

as far as the cream goes, there are 200 ways to do it and one way is not really better than any of the others. if you are getting lather you like, that's the best way for you!