Thread: A Shoddy Workman always blames his tools

If you have 3 razors, a solid basic set of sharpening stones, some leather, some time and patience; along with a usual shaving method- The only other thing you really need is a good instructional resource. Ah! you have that as well!.

For me the best way to learn this task has been by doing it, not by comparing with what someone else has done. I do not entirely dismiss the benefits of having a sure sharp HM edge on hand. It's just that I have never needed one. Besides all good threads need a counter-point for balance, and you won't hurt my feeling by venturing onto the slippery slope of HMBM.

Any usual method of shaving offers a fine bench mark(BM) for a beginner. Until the straight exceeds, supersedes, and simply blows away the method you currently use; you are not quite there. If at anytime you simply cannot complete your straight shave, fall back on your usual method, resharpen, re-strop and try again. The face knows instinctively when it has been done right or wrong.

It is said having a sharp bench mark will teach you technique. bah hum bug All the technique I learned was with a less than ideal edge- that's when you need "technique". Once I was able to make a good sharp edge the only technique is collecting lather and hair in the hollow and wiping it clean when full.

Comparison shaving, in the end, only sets you up for more and more buying. Learning to use what you have leaves you satisfied and beardless.

So until you accidentally cut your nose off, or lips there is no good reason to consider giving up. The tools, the face, a little common sense, brief instruction is more than enough.