Thread: Mantic Goes Straight?

Originally Posted by mantic

the differences between straights and straight-like replaceable blade razors (BTW, so far as I've played with the replaceable straights it seems like they're the "worst of both worlds"--anyone agree?). Then I'll discuss prep (e.g. stropping) and a little bit about actual shave technique.

Speaking of technique, I've tried something that seems to work with me but I'm not sure if I should pass it on in a video: I lay the blade flat against my face then ever-so-slightly rock the razor just so it starts cutting, rather than try to estimate a 30 degree angle. Thoughts?

On the shavette, I have found the blades and razor do not have enough heft to plow through the thicker parts of my beard. I could not get the angle low enough for optimum cutting power. I normally need to have the spine against my skin for ATG, so starting there and coming up is the perfect way to start IMHO. I still use the Shavette as a travel razor and it can be helpful in learning what a sharp edge is. Thanks for the videos, I have loved them.

Originally Posted by mantic

(BTW, so far as I've played with the replaceable straights it seems like they're the "worst of both worlds"--anyone agree?).

If you asked me a few days ago I'd agree, but I got a Feather AC SS (a model only sold in Japan) and some KAI blades, which are milder than Feathers, and I had a shave this morning as smooth as using any straight.
But with my Parker, I've had some BAD moments lol.

Mantic,
Thanks so much for all you have done for wet shaving. I enjoyed watching your videos immenseley. I can't wait to see how you approach the straight videos. You and Lynn have done so much for this community that I think it is a natural for you to end up here. Glad you are here and I am anxiously awaiting your new videos.

Originally Posted by hoglahoo

The few folks I've helped learn how to shave all responded well to that advice. Somehow (maybe by providing a zero reference point) it takes some of the guesswork out of those first shaving strokes that already feel so awkward

good luck with the video

+1 ... Works for me & dropping the spine down a little on meeting any resistance can save blood too when areas like the chin cause varied angle

Haha is it bad that I'm star struck by mantic?! I'm getting way too into this hobby

Anyways I just had to say thanks for your videos. You definitely opened the world of wet shaving up to me and a ton of other people. Your advanced techniques video and especially your lather making ones really helped me when i started using a DE about two years ago. I started using a straight about 5 months ago and while it is way more of a learning curve than a DE, regular reading of this forum will help you fix any mistakes in no time.

Thanks again!

Originally Posted by mantic

Hi Gents--

Ever since I started doing my traditional shaving videos I've had requests to do a video(s) on straight razors. I've resisted up to this point because of the work involved, both with learning the various aspects of straight shaving and the "mechanics" of doing those kinds of videos (I'm sure Lynn can "feel my pain"). However the demand has gotten to the point where I probably need to do *something*.

So...suggestions? Should I just get the newbie DVD to study and emulate? Should I try going the cheap route with a Pakastani razor and a single strop? Or just do a video referring everyone to SRP?

--Mark

Mark,

If you want a cheap Pakistani razor, just email me at support@italianbarber.com, I will send you one gratis.

I know you don't like free stuff, but this is for the good of mankind so please consider.

kind regards,

Joseph

Joseph-- Thanks for the offer but I have several Pakasktani razors. I've just never used them because everything I read says I shouldn't bother. I was even going to mention the "avoid" list here on SRP.

Originally Posted by mantic

Joseph-- Thanks for the offer but I have several Pakasktani razors. I've just never used them because everything I read says I shouldn't bother. I was even going to mention the "avoid" list here on SRP.

Don't feel bad, I have a new one that I won't touch either lol

I wouldn't normal give it away (because I'm sure it's junk) but sticking to the theme of learning... lol

I look forward to viewing your straight shave video.

Originally Posted by mantic

Resurrecting this thread yet again! I've also obtained a Feather AC, a Dovo Shavette, and a Parker SR: these are "straight-razor-like" razors with replaceable blades. My plan right now is for the video discussing the basics: the parts of a straight (i.e. scales, "monkey tail," bolster, tang, etc.), variations in blade (5/8, 3/4, points, grinds, etc.), and the differences between straights and straight-like replaceable blade razors (BTW, so far as I've played with the replaceable straights it seems like they're the "worst of both worlds"--anyone agree?).

Hi Mantic I have to disagree with your comments on the shavette's or straights with a disposable blade as you call them My first ever straight shave was done with one by a Turkish barber and those guys shave beards every day if their customers were not getting close comfortable shaves they would be out of business and in the resort areas of Turkey, tourists get recommended to use them because it is too a good an experience to be missed. They all have to use shavette's because of health laws.

I'm still yet to get a good shave with a proper straight it's a work in progress, but with a shavette I get a very good shave and the Dovo shavette design makes it very easy, plus if you want a bigger blade you can get a longer blade for the Dovo.

Some of the Cheaper shavette's out there are harder to use and unless you are totally focused on the shave (That's a Big Ask first thing in the morning) you will end up looking like you've been attacked by a cat

Thats my 2p worth.

I do have one Question for you Mantic has the quality of your DE shaves improved since you started playing around with straight razors?

Originally Posted by Evin

...I do have one Question for you Mantic has the quality of your DE shaves improved since you started playing around with straight razors?

Not that I've noticed.