Thread: First straight razor shave...help!

So-

I used the soap and razor Mike R sent me...took a shower before hand, used some conditioner, and got dressed (all of the email about not shaving naked I decked out in my Airman's Battle Uniform and combat boots). Got a great lather from the soap and my boar brush (I know, I know, but it was a badger brush or new combat boots) and started the shave. My plan was to do the sideburn/cheek area, and I did a decent job IMHO (no nicks, fairly smooth) However, it felt like the razor was "pulling." I tried different angles, more lather, etc, but not much changed.

Any tips?

I finished up with my Mach 3 cause I was in a hurry, but I'd like some input before I head to the desert tomorrow. Thanks!

-Mic

Did you strop at all? That might help with the pulling. Also, it might be your technique just needs some work. That will come with time though.

I know I get a pulling feeling sometimes, but every shave has less and less as my technique gets better.

Normally I would say it could be the sharpness of your razor, but Mike knows how to hone from what I hear, so it's likely that's not the case.

Mike recommended a newspaper strop (don't have a strop yet). I forgot to mention that I hadn't shaved since early Friday and resembled a grizzly bear.

Is it ok to shave daily with a straight?

Yes. A daily shave is A-OK. You will need a way to sharpen it in a month or two though.