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  1. #1
    Junior Member
    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Location
    Chattanooga, TN
    Posts
    29
    Thanked: 1

    Default Goal #1, don't slice throat, achieved!

    Today was my first str8 shave, and I had a pretty modest goal---to not butcher my face. Thankfully, I achieved that goal. In fact, I didn't even get one nick---a fact that shocks me, since I typically nick myself at least once with my Gillette sensor. My styptic pencil got to go back in the drawer unused. I did one WTG pass all over pretty slowly, doubling back quite a bit to clean up. Then I did one XTG pass.

    The other thing that surprised me, though, was that the shave was not as close as I thought it would be. After the two passes, my face feels about as smooth as after I have shaved with my old Norelco electric (maybe a bit smoother), which, of course, is not saying much. There are a few spots that feel smoother than others. In any case, I know that it isn't realistic to get a great shave my first time out, so I'm fine with it.

    Another thing that I noticed was that the lather dried out on my face rather quickly. The two passes did take quite a bit of time (45 minutes?) because I was being so cautious, so I had to keep lathering up over and over again to keep things wet and moving. Maybe I didn't have enough water mixed in with the lather?

    Any way, I know as my technique progresses, the closeness of my shave will improve. I think I'm pretty well hooked.

    FYI, I got the startup kit from Kenrup and am very happy with it. got the Double Arrow razor---honed and shave-ready---the Tweezerman silvertip badger brush, a cake of glycerin soap, and the filly strop all for $95. If you are a newbie like me, this deal is a great way to investigate the world of str8 shaving with quality products but a modest investment.

    I also found a cool milk glass shaving mug with bevelled sides at a local antique store, so I'm set for a bit. My next acquisition will likely be a Norton 4000/8000 waterstone.

    Payne

  2. #2
    straight shaver geoffreyt's Avatar
    Join Date
    Mar 2008
    Location
    Ellicott City, Maryland
    Posts
    212
    Thanked: 11

    Default

    There ya go! The first time you use a straight razor you will be real slow. You will learn the angles and the speed will improve and the closeness will also come. You will also get better at making lather. Stick to it.

  3. #3
    JAS eTea, LLC netsurfr's Avatar
    Join Date
    Sep 2006
    Location
    Burke, VA USA
    Posts
    1,301
    Thanked: 110

    Default

    Nice going! You had a great experience for your first shave. Take it slowly and enjoy the journey. Congratulations!!!

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