First SR Shave

Hey everyone,

After receiving my whippeddog straight razor from Larry, I proceeded to have my first SR shave. I only focused on my cheeks and jaw because I figured that'd be a good place to start (I also attempted to shave side burns as well, but it didn't really work at first). When I did get the blade to actually make decent contact with my face, the shave proceeded fairly well. However, the problem was actually getting it so I could see what I was doing and maintain a good blade angle as well. Much of the time my arm or wrist was in the way of my eye so I couldn't see exactly what I was doing, and this is what caused most of the problems.

Overall, only some minor irritation on my jawline on both sides of my face (as was expecting considering as I was doing it I knew my angle was a bit off at these locations). I don't think today went particularly poorly, however, I was curious to see if anyone had any advice regarding "keeping things out of the way". My guess is, however, that it just comes with practice.

Sounds like you were off to a perfectly normal first straight shave, and came out decent. :)
I'm almost two weeks into it, and I figure it will be a few months before I'm completely confident, it's that difficult and that's why it's fun, I enjoy a challenge! :)

I agree. All the various issues you can run into improve with practice. You're off to an above average start. Just stay with it and continue asking questions.

Keep at it man. Just a tip I hold the razor like this, and switch hands for the other side of my face, I get a clear view of everything

cheers
-omid

Thanks for the feedback everyone!

Omid - I'll try that and keep experimenting with the standard grip as well. Thanks for the picture!

Don't limit yourself to one grip you gotta find what works for you. I probably use about 5 different grips to shave my face. In fact when I shave XTG on the bulb of my chin I hold the razor like a steak knife cause that's what works for me. What I'm saying is don't be afraid to experiment and go out side of the mold

Hi Guys, been a newbie to all this i thought would add my 2 penneth, i tend to hold the razor in the standard way, and just rotate my wrist, and move my hand in to any position that i can see where i am shaving,

i dont trust my left hand with a sr i think it would try to get me back for all the times i have hit it with a hammer,

Different ways to hold a straight razor - Straight Razor Place Wiki
check the wiki there is 10 standard grips try em all and see what works for you.