Thread: First Straight Shave Completed - Some questions

Over all, I think I did pretty good. No cuts. Somewhat close. I did have to shave around my goatee with the DE. I was afraid to mess it up. But that is the only place I cheated.

Some questions:

1) I shave with my right hand. Do I have to learn to shave with my left hand also? I really hope not. I used my right hand only. What do most people do?

2) I was under the impression that the head (or point) has to alway be pointing toward the ear. Is this true? I found it hard to shave my left cheek because my hand would block my view in the mirror. It felt more natural to have the head towards my nose when shaving this part of my face.

3) Blade Angel. I have the Dovo Best Quality. I have a hard time figuring out a 30 degree angel. Is 2X the spine thickness a good rule of thumb? If not, what is?

Thanks a million!

1) No you don't have to, but you may find that you need to. There is only one place on my face where I need to use my left hand, and that is the right side of my neck. Was very awkward at first using my weak hand, but I just took my time. Now it's just a part of my routine.

2)No, the point doesn't always have to point towards the ear. At least it doesn't when I shave.

3)Angel, shmangle... Don't worry so much about angle. Just try shaving the hairs off of your face. You will find a certain way that the razor will comfortably slice through your beard ,and others that won't feel as good. Just carefully experiment until you find it. If the razor is pulling (this is assuming your razor is honed and stropped of course) re-adjust your razor position, and stroke, so that it is cutting the hairs instead. Take your time, you'll get there. Remember, good pre-shave prep really helps here.


Scott

I think the rule of having the razor's toe point at the ear is a measure for barbers; this way they never have the blade over an area they might cut accidentally.

30 degrees is a rule of thumb; be flexible, and find what works best for you.

Angle is a factor you can adjust based on sound. At a very low angle you'll get less cutting sound, at the right angle more, then at too high an angle horrific razor burn followed by a flurry of posts on here to ask about "irritation and a lack of adequate honing" .

Originally Posted by AFDavis11

...then at too high an angle horrific razor burn followed by a flurry of posts on here to ask about "irritation and a lack of adequate honing" .

1) I use both hands because, personally, I find it easier to see what I'm cutting when I'm not reaching across the face. However, many people prefer to shave with their dominant hand. I did find that after a couple times using my other hand, it became easier.

2) I believe, as xChris said, this is practiced by barbers to ensure they don't cut their patrons. I also find it easier this way...I can get the toe right along the side of the face.

3) It seems that angle can vary depending on the blade/spine and the contours of your face. If it doesn't seem to be cutting, try adjusting a bit.