Thread: I need convincing

My dear gsurko:

I recommend you abandon the straight razor: that is, if you need to be convinced why you should continue with it.

The art of straight razor shaving is like any other art: The artist needs no convincing. The writer picks up the pen and the painter the brush. You pick up the straight razor.

I have a big bank of notches on my age as you on yours. I wanted to shave with a straight razor since my twenties, but life got in the way. Decades later, I finally picked up the straight razor. I was the only person who convinced me, no one else, and the pleasure of straight razor shaving makes me happy with my decision. I am ecstatic. I am also proud of my accomplishment.

Like any art and craft, anything worthwhile, that is, the art of straight razor shaving takes time and effort. It requires dedication, discipline, tenacity and patience. Those are a must. If you do not have them, or are not willing to employ them in your task, then you should not choose the straight razor.

Should you choose to shave with the straight razor, however, the rewards are worth the initial trials and frustrations. Any art takes time. Any craft. But you must want them. And you must want the straight razor.

I no longer have the strong hands I once did. Now and then I even must revert to the double edge for a few days to rest my hands, especially my thumbs. Then one day I pick up my beloved straight razor, strop it and begin: slowly, methodically and carefully, even after all years of shaving with a straight razor.

What's more, I continue to hone my skills. I continue to perfect my art of straight razor shaving.

I shave with a straight razor, because I want to. I am good at what I do, but by no means am I a master of what I do. Is it important for me to someday become a master of the straight razor? Yes, it is. In the meantime I love every moment of my journey.

Do you need convincing to shave with a straight razor?

I don't know.

Do you?

Regards,
Obie