2nd shave with a straight razor

I didn't post about my first shave, so I thought I would post about my second shave. :)

My second shave went a lot better than the first. I got a lot more hair off on the second shave, and started shaving my upper lip and chin area. I was reluctant to do the second shave because I didn't want to mess my razor up by stropping it improperly. After a couple of weeks, I decided if I did mess it up all I would have to do is send it out to get rehoned and it wouldn't be that big of deal.

Overall, I'm pretty excited about shaving with a straight! It was really rewarding. It's been a while since I've picked up a new hobby and I think this is going to be one that I love!

Fred

That is fine progress.
It will continue to get so much better.
If I may, please consider a second straight, that will keep you shaving while you send one out for honing!
Good luck:)

A second straight is definitely on my list of things to buy!

And another innocent shaver is sent down the path to Razor Acquisition Disorder. Oh, the humanity!

How do you know if stropping has messed up the razor?

Being afraid to use a razor because stropping might mess it up is like not wanting to drive a new car because it might get dirty or dinged. Razors are meant to be used. Just practice your stropping and use that razor.

Gssixgun has threads for beginner tips (do NOT be too proud to follow advice for a beginner) His thread on stropping gives tips that would have saved a bunch of strops from early graves. He links the fine vids from Afdavis, and I think hi_bud_gl. Each is excellent. I ruined a bunch of strops, and no doubt clobbered many edges. The detail in those vids would have been a great help when I started (10+ mo ago). Do some searching on how to strop videos, and you'll be way ahead. 'Grats on taking the plunge. The best shaves of your life are very near. Enjoy!