Thread: Chin Technique For Newbs

I've been meaning to post this for quite some time now, but haven't got around to it until tonight. I've read time and time again how new straight shavers can get a good shave on the cheeks and maybe the neck, but when it comes to the chin area frustration sets in and they start to question the ability to get an outstanding overall shave with a straight. Newbies take heart; with patience and practice it IS possible to get a better shave "the old fashioned way" than with the good ol' Mock 3. I believe it was Lynn who posted some time ago that Newbs tend to flatten out the angle of the blade when shaving the chin area, whether conciously or not. He recommended increasing the angle (or simply maintaining the same angle used on other parts of the face). Upon further reflection I realized that I was doing just that - using a shallower angle. And once you try increasing the angle you'll realize that it works, not only to provide a smoother shave but also to reduce irritation from running the blade over your chin more times than you need to.

So, my 2 recommendations to getting a better shave on your chin:
-Maintain the standard blade angle (approx 30 degrees) across your entire chin area. When you are more proficient with your razor it will come naturally, as will further experimentation.
-Remember: Beard reduction, not elimination. Use multiple passes and do not attempt to hack it all off with one WTG pass, which will only result in redness and an insufficient shave.

I hope this helps new guys who may be frustrated at the moment. When I was a newb this technique really helped me transition from getting a "decent" shave to "oh my god, a Mach 3 can't even do this" shave. Good luck.

Ryan