Too close for missles, I'm switching to guns.

I like being old-fashioned, so switching from the cutting-edge (yay for puns) guided missle-esque safety razor, which is effective but not always as reliable as the hardcore, cut-you-in-half, raw power of the cutthroat. As such, I've been converted. :cool:

First time was great. No cuts or nicks of any kind. I'm rather proud. However, this and the fact that my shave was not particularly close are clear indicators that I was not aggressive enough! Probably not putting on enough pressure, also might be a problem with stropping as I didn't do much. Today it's back to the blade in a more thorough fashion. Regardless of the closeness of the shave, it was the most comfortable shave I've ever had, and even if I do use a safety razor again, I'll be lathering using the soap and brush any time I'm able. My face is the least irritated it's ever been after a shave. I was able to do WTG and XTG just fine. I got gutsy and tried ATG but quickly realized that my hand was not yet steady enough to do it. Tonight I try again...

Thank you all for the helpful tips you've put up on this forum, it's really been a huge help! Also thanks to Kenrup for the kit.

One question, are any of you familiar with this guide to lathering?
How-To and Why -
Is this the right way to do it? I think I'm going to give it a shot for my next try this evening. Just wondering what your opinions are. Also, any instructions/tips on holding the razor? I'm wondering if most people shave with one hand always using the razor or if they switch hands to do different sides. Also, do you hold the razor the same way when doing against the grain or what? Maybe it just takes a lot of practice, but it seemed really awkward - also probably doesn't help that it's not well balanced as the scales are plastic.

Thanks again everyone!

Using pressure on the blade while shaving always gives me razor burn. If the razor doesn't cut without pressure, I'll try anything before using more pressure. I'll push the razor parallel to my skin, but I don't like to push downward against it at all

NO PRESSURE!!! If it wont shave without applying pressure, STOP there is something wrong. Needs to be honed,stropped or you need to watch your technique(blade angles). Pressure will give razor burn which is a minor problem, worse yet you could have a slice of lunchmeat hanging from your face. Sharp blade, correct angle and use a slight scything action using your wrist. Truly hope this helps. No pressure.:nono:

Alright! Point taken! Stropping it is! Thanks!

+2 on no pressure.

Try lathering in a lather bowl, in a mug on the cake, in your hand, on your face, etc... See what you like the best.

I just use my dominant hand for both sides. I almost never go ATG. I do hold the razor differently on those occasions when I make a second pass on the heavy areas. This is preference again, you might do better using both hands. Try both ways. Discovering what you like best is the fun part.

Congratulations on making the switch to straights. The more you do it, the better it'll get.

+1 on NO PRESSURE!

And never forget to STRETCH the skin properly!!! I did (when going XTG)... now I have a cute scar (of about 5 cm) on my left cheek. :D