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Hi there,
I'm considering which straight razor to buy for my first. I really like the Dovo ebony spikepoint http://www.classicshaving.com/catalo...40/2104673.htm (I know it's out of stock right now, but I'm in no hurry). Is a spike point a really bad idea for a beginner or just kind of a bad idea? I mean, I should be able to just shave more toward the tang and keep the end clear when I'm taking big swipes and then just use the tip in tight spots, right?
Thanks,
Mark
Mark,
You'll hear differing opinions about this one, but FWIW, my preference is for spike razors and has always been so. Take your time with it and go slowly. If you don't, you'll cut yourself. Point is, you'll do this just as easily with a round point as a spike. I just feel that I've a more flexible tool with a spike point. With it I can trim individual hairs if I want to.
Ed
With a spike, the point is, always know where the point is!:hmmm:Quote:
Originally Posted by ForestryProf
RT
Mark, welcome to SRP. A spike point is maybe a bit more of a challenge, but I would suggest to get started on one first. That way when you get a round point it will seem like a piece of cake. Some old time barbers do not even consider shaving with a round point, they say that was there neck shaver. I disagree with that train of thought, a round point is a fine shaver.
Glen
My first shave with a straight razor was with a spike point. In fact, all but one of my straights have spike points. Go for it. Just be careful.
You can count on letting some blood starting with the straight, spike point or not, so if that DOVO is your cup of tea, go for it.
Nenad
Mark,
Thay are all sharp and I have nicked myself with every style out there:D .
Just take your time and you will be fine.
Mark,
The Dovo Ebony is one beautyful razor.
I don't think that you will have any
problem with it.
I started out with one and I'm glad
that I did. For some reason I like the
spikes the best.
Terry
A sensible question. I was worried like hell about the spike to start with and insisted to the SRP member from whom I ordered my first razor that it NOT be a spike. All he had were spikes so he rounded one off some for me. The irony is that I actually recieved and shaved with a spike that I got off eBay. I'm with the others who actually prefer it. I am now more wary of round tips because it's harder to be as precise with the tip. I have never had any problem with a spike and if you follow the first rule of straight razor shaving, which is 'always be mindful of where every part of the edge is at all times', then you shouldn't either.
X
Well I'll be different than everyone else here and recommend you put the spike on hold for awhile. When your first starting out you have enough things to worry about you don't need to be mindful of where that spike is all the time. Once you get some experience then I'd go for the spike. To me its kind of like learning to drive a car. Would you rather learn with an auto tranny or a stick?
I'd agree, but to turn that on its head ... Those that learn on a stick never have a problem with them in their lives.Quote:
Originally Posted by thebigspendur
X
I hate to admit it but X has a point and not just on his razor.:D
It's important to distinguish a "square point" from a "spike". Many razors that are sold today are square points and not true spikes. A square point does not have a sharp tip; rather it is slightly rounded off and should not be a concern for a new shaver. On the other hand, a true spike has a very sharp tip. Some members dull the tips of their spiked razors. Nenad (superfly) has a helpful image of how to do this and it can be found under his name in the "User Gallery". I don't dull the tips of my spikes, as I find the spiked tip useful when shaving. I haven't had any mishaps, but other members will tell you stories about the scars they have left. lol...
Hal
I've learned how to drive on automatics, but ever since my first stick car, I never went back to granny-tranny. As for spike points, they're ok as long as you're careful with your shaving, but unless you're sporting a moustache or a goatee, they don't have much of an added utility value for you. Mine never gave me any scars though. Ironically it was a round point that gave me 4, but it's a piece of crap blade that's been relegated to being a teaching prop and a guinea pig for my restoration techniques.
Hi there Firestart,Quote:
Originally Posted by FiReSTaRT
Whether of not a spike point has any added utility depends upon your facial contours, beard type and personal preference. In my case, I find a spike easier to use in some difficult corners; but these areas are not impossible access with a round point either.
Hal
Good point X! I guess that explains why I've never had any problem with barber hones either! :DQuote:
Originally Posted by xman
Hal
Or my head. :thinking:Quote:
Originally Posted by RichZ
X