Thread: The Beginner's Paradox

Originally Posted by Sailor

...People today are so much after answers that are already chewed. Getting there without learning or having to think something by yourself. Getting comfortable experiences just by laying cash on the table...

Very nicely put.

And those who learned before us didn't have an internet or a large gathering of gentlemen with such kindness to ask uninformed questions to and be treated well. This is really big stuff to me.

Ever been to a firing range and watch someone new to firearms do some really, really stupid things? For that matter ever see someone experienced with firearms do something really stupid.?

At least the razor won't kill you as you learn.

Agreed it is a ton of info at once. These are cumlitaive details of what tends to get the best consistent results.

Men of centuries ago used a similar sharp piece of steel.
Doubtful when they would shave theirselves, they consider all these details.

When they wanted a professional experience, they often went to the barber.

The details listed, would be similar to what the professional barber would do and use.

Once learned, it will be a skill you will have forever.

In a sense you are striving to do the task a man of yesterday may have done for a living. Makes sense when first starting that no one will shave like a pro.

This is why its so nice to start with a shave ready razor. Any of the factors you mentioned can make a shave inferior, but if the beginner is trying to sharpen their own razor at the same time, you can include 1) they are doing all of the above decently, but the razor is dull, or more likey 2) amplify all of the above because the razor is dull.

Originally Posted by thebigspendur

Ever been to a firing range and watch someone new to firearms do some really, really stupid things? For that matter ever see someone experienced with firearms do something really stupid.?

At least the razor won't kill you as you learn.

seconded

Not knowing these things, learning them is part of the fun. My paradox was not being able to shave enough times in the week to learn faster.

Interesting discussion ....... I often wonder what drove me to take the decision to give up the complacent use of disposable razors and enter the world of straight shaving. I obviously realized there was a certain risk involved with hurdling through the learning curve, but like the rest of you, I took the decision anyway.

Thinking back on it I feel that it was an art form which I wished to pursue as a means of bettering myself. To commit to a disciplined process where attention to detail and taking pride in ones self is essential to success. Taking the time to learn how to prepare my face and properly sharpen, use, and maintain my instrument was essentially an affirmation that I truly care about myself, and the details that I have control over in my life.

Therefore, the inevitable paradox is worth muddling through if for no other reason than to get to a place where one truly feels pride in themselves. Whoever thought that something so routinely typical as shaving could effect a life so positively.

Here's to ya fellas,

CK