Thread: First two SE shaves done :(

I got my "kit" from Tony on Friday. Very nice razor and strop! Good price and fast shipping. It is also easier to order a kit, I would recommend this to others starting out. I have been reading lots of info hear and elsewhere, so I figured it would go fairly well.

First off no bleeding that cold water couldn't stop Thanks to some of the prep advice here I have been getting a very close shave with my Quattro and can usually get by shaving everyother day for work. I had shaved Thrusday, so the beard was not that long on Friday. I figured it would make it easier to learn.

I had a hard time with the soap, kept drying out. I figured that is partly me, partly the soap (Williams), and me being used to canned stuff. I made sure to keep reapplying though.

The razor just seemed to pull an awfull lot Even doing the simple areas such as sides of face. I managed to get my whole face done. It wasn't smooth in most areas, but it took enough off that it looked fine.

I cannot ever remember having razor burn that bad in my life I didn't apply hardly any pressure, and felt the angle was correct. I suppose my face will have to toughen up a little. I didn't dare go against the grain for a 3rd pass. I tried a few little areas( against the grain) and the razor jumped around and pulled.

I tried again on Sunday, but switched to the quattro 40% of the way through. I didn't want razor burn again
I finished up with the soap. When I got done, the shave with my quattro seemed a lot smoother with the soap than with the canned stuff. My face felt softer, smoother, and a little tight. I can't wait to try a better quality soap and see what that does.

I don't think I damaged the edge with my stropping, I was very slow and methodical. Maybe I have a thicker beard and the razor needs to be a little sharper? Or maybe I am not using enough of a cything motion?

I wetted a spot on my leg and the razor shaved it smooth on the first pass. I realize that hair is not as tough though.

Just wanted to share my experience/fustration. I can see there are so many variables when you first start out it is going to be a challenge. I am not giving up, and certainly don't want to discourage anyone else from tyring it. But it should serve as a reminder the just about everything in life looks a lot eaiser then it is.

I am guessing a pasted paddle strop, better soap and more practice might be the ticket. Any words of encourgement/advice are certainly welcome.