Thread: My new foray into the straight razor...

Originally Posted by SkinnyChef

I decided to take the plunge and bought a complete Dovo carbon steel straight razor set with a good soap, upgraded to super silvertip brush, and got a bone-handled Dovo Bismark, all from vintagebladesllc.com.

Is this the spike point or round point Bismark?

If it is the spike point, you need to really pay attention to that spike. Some who shave with a spike purposely dull the tip so that they don't have to worry about it so much.

Also, keep your pressure as light as possible. The straight will usually only cut if you are running the blade parallel to the edge, or with a spike point if you use too much pressure (which isn't much at all) on the tip.

it's a spike point. and I have learned very quickly to respect it. I don't want to dull it, after all the spike has a purpose. So, instead of ruining a beautiful tool, I will just pay real close attention to my technique and learn to use my tools properly.
Question: Should I be using the heel-end of the blade or try for complete and even pressure through the middle of the blade?

Originally Posted by SkinnyChef

it's a spike point. and I have learned very quickly to respect it. I don't want to dull it, after all the spike has a purpose. So, instead of ruining a beautiful tool, I will just pay real close attention to my technique and learn to use my tools properly.
Question: Should I be using the heel-end of the blade or try for complete and even pressure through the middle of the blade?

If the pressure is right, the tip shouldn't cause you any more harm than a round time. So I wouldn't try to avoid the spike, as you should learn to wield its tip. Personally, I found I like the middle for most parts, but like to use the heal or toe for specific parts. I'd suggest sticking to the middle of the blade for most passes, and learning to use the top to chop that stray hair or two. Experiment with all parts of the razor, and soon enough you will find your own way.

Originally Posted by SkinnyChef

Question: Should I be using the heel-end of the blade or try for complete and even pressure through the middle of the blade?

i usually use the toe for the sideburn areas and the heel for the chin area and middle of the razor for the rest but thats just my .02.

also in regards to your name, well i was told to never trust a "skinny chef" lol, just kidding. keep with it my first few shaves were terrible but it does get better

-dan-