Thread: is my razor still sharp?

How do you know when your razor isn't sharp enough? Easy; when it starts to pull and delivers sub-par shaves. I do realize the predicament though when you haven't had great shaves to begin with.....

Originally Posted by bulldog

Another method of testing is the thumb pad test. Sadly though, you have to have a known shave ready blade as a reference (at least I did the first several times).

This is a problem that is easily solved. Use a brand new DE blade and that will give you a good reference to what the TPT should feel like.

Originally Posted by red96ta

I'd say it's your technique. When I started, I got a Dovo Bismarck from SRD and it didn't feel as sharp as it should which just couldn't have been the case. after just a couple weeks, my technique improved and the blade felt much better.

It's your technique...

Red, you're probably right (to a degree) but the OP also stated that he had a month's worth of shaves with his razor. For a newb that's A LOT of shaves without a touchup, so in this case I'll say it's the razor. Many guys who have been doing this for well over a year report that they can't go that long without at least a touchup or two.

anjp, your razor needs to be honed. I'd say send it to Sham or floppyshoes, who is a little closer to you (Montreal).