Thread: ATG Angle for the Newbs

Hey fellow Newbs. The ones like me that were having trouble with ATG shaving. Remember this diagram from the Wiki?

See that blade angle for ATG? 5 degrees right? That is almost flat against the skin while taking that ATG pass. I finally got that today and my ATG pass was awsome. Start with the blade flat against the skin and lift ever so slightly as you take that pass. Here is the problem. If your angle is too steep, you will need more pressure to make the cut. More pressure = tearing the hell out of your face. The angle is EXTREMELY important to getting the pressure correct.

And by the way, look at that XTG angle as well. 15 degrees isn't much either.

Good luck,

David

Thinking sometimes in degress can be a problem, in fact if you ask me the 30 degress is a bit steep but that is JMHO

Spine widths is sometimes easier WTG= 2, XTG =1, ATG = almost flat against the skin, but your description is better start flat and lift slightly as you move... That actually works on all the strokes... Great post !!!

I also use the width of the spine as a guide, though I try not to get much further than 1.5 widths on any of my strokes. 2 widths is a little steep for the more sensitive areas like my neck and upper lip.

Glen and BingoBango. Thanks for the spine width tip. Much easier to visualize.

David

I especially like the spine-widths technique because (theoretically- if anyone, ANYONE starts talking calculus and trig I'm going to flip! ) the width of the spine correlates to the angle of the bevel... so in theory on any razor 1 spine width is going to produce roughly the same bevel/skin interface...

Okay, math guys. Tear me apart. I'm ready. *hides*

Great post. Thanks!

Hello, Alembic:

Sound advice from Glen and BingoBango.

I might add that the 30-degree angle is as about as general a number as one can imagine. The world of straight razor shaving consists of a symphony of variations. After all, the process is personal, since one shaver is different from the other. After some practice and tryouts, adopt the patterns and razor angles that work best for you.

Regards,

Obie

very useful, i have been considering against the grain but havent felt comfortable till now against my neck. now with this visualization and thinking just thw tiniest lift off flat against the skin i feel more confidant to take the plunge tomorrow, cheers!

Wow, these angles take a while and lots and lots and lots of practice to get down. I'm finding that steeper angles ATG kinda tens to make the cut more prone to becoming an ingrown hair situation. Anybody seeing that too?

Hello, Salazch:

Against the grain, I especially make sure to keep a low angle, almost flat against the skin. Others may do it differently, though. Do what you feel is right for you. As a rule ATG, I suggest a lower angle.

Regards,

Obie