Thread: First shave with a fixed blade Straight Razor

Wow! I feel amazing after using a Parker (disposable blade razor) for about a month, I have transitioned to a real straight edge, a professionally honed, shave ready (Dovo Diamant). I came home today after being in a Structure Collapse Rescue Technician Class, to a long box on my door step! I saw it was from Straight razor designs. I was so excited I could not wait to see my awesome new razor and strop. After properly (or at least I hope) stropping my brand new razor I could not wait to try it out. So I jumped in the shower and immediately after I started my usual routine; I rubbed in "Art of Shaving" Pre-shave oil and I let the oil sit for a minute and then proceeded to lather my face with the "Art of Shaving" Sandalwood cream. Then applied this beautiful blade to my face.

I can now say that I have had the best shave ever (even though I thought this was not possible after using the Parker with disposable blades). I did not even have any nicks or razor burn that I am accustomed to with the other razor. The Dovo glided over my face.

I am so glad there are forums like this where I have learned so much and continue to do so!

Congratulations balzac and welcome to our little corner of the web! There's nothing quite like the feel of that first shave. And a Dovo, to boot; you're in good hands, my friend.

There's a wealth of knowledge and experience in these forums; all there for the asking. I wish you many more great shaves.

Balzac06,

Can you describe the differences from going from a disposable straight to the real thing. I am going to make the same transition soon. Any insight or tips would greatly be appreciated. Thank You.

Tattooface, First I will pass on same advice I received; make sure you buy a professionally honed razor and buy a 3" strop. The three biggest things I noticed, first the fixed blade is a larger blade (obvious), second the fixed blade is more forgiving and third I did not get any razor burn that I have been accustomed to while shaving with the disposable blade razor. my technique stayed the same Although I did have to remind myself to slow down due to my excitement and to enjoy the shave! Feel free to ask any questions, keep in mind I am very new to Straight edge shaving

Balzac06,

Thanks for the info. I most defiantly will be getting a Pro Honed blade before I try it, and planned on a 3" strop from what I have read here on the forums. One of my current issues with the disposable is like you said, the burn, especially around the neck (I am still working on angle, and reducing pressure, disposable bad habit!). I am looking forward to the true straight. Thanks again for sharing.

balzac06,
How many passes did you do? i am still trying to get through one with a Kamisori!
Congratualtions!

Congrats on the shave. The good news is that they will get better!!

celestino,
I went three with the grain cross the grain and against. still having a little difficulty with around the chin but other then that I am loving the new razor!