Thread: DE vs SR

Hi guys
Do most people start off with a double edge and then move to a straight razor? I've been thinking about getting 1 but I'm not sure if I need it at this point using a straight razor all the time? Any benefits of 1 over the other? Is the double edge learning curve harder than the straight edge learning curve? I just see that a lot of guys use them an wondering if I need to use 1 as well If that will make the straight razor learning easier? Thanks for all your replies in advance!

I actually did the opposite, started with a straight and went to a DE for when I am in a hurry...you can't hurry a straight & I'm one fo those guys who can't stand going without a shave.

For me, I will stay predominately with a straight razor as the shave leaves my face simply smoother with zero irritation.

The one advantage to DE that I found is its more convenient traveling, not needing to strop. I can also shave a little quicker with DE. I do prefer a straight razor though.

Originally Posted by wrench3047

The one advantage to DE that I found is its more convenient traveling, not needing to strop. I can also shave a little quicker with DE. I do prefer a straight razor though.

I prefer straight razor myself so I guess I really don't need a DE then. I figure for traveling I'll get a feather ss

I enjoy both styles of shaving and Single Edge Gems with modern blades also. The idea is to enjoy a shave and take the time when you have it to enjoy an exceptional shave. Either method will give a good shave.
The real secret is to find a soap and brush combination and then learn to lather. You won't go back to shave bombs after that. Van der Hagen from the Drug Store chains has a cheap and very good starter soap and boar bristle brush for under $15 for both. A wide shallow cup is sufficient to later the soap in.
~Richard

I think both are fine. A DE was my replacement for a cartridge razor for times when I want a decent shave on my neck and chin and don't have time or attention to do it carefully with my Feather straight. I'm not at all ashamed that I often like to mow down the cheeks and 'stache with a straight or Feather, then switch to a DE for the neck. They can complement each other nicely. Straights are still a bit sexier though.

As a person who just went from DE to SR, the learning curve is much higher for a SR. There is a reason the DE is called a safety razor. I would suggest getting a DE first just because you will have to change your shaving style compared to the normal cartridge razor and using a DE is a little safer and easier I think. You will notice the much better shave you get with a DE over cartridge almost immediately. Plus, after I shave spots I feel comfortable doing with the SR, I finish up with the DE and it really gets everything very smooth.

Started with using a DE some 40+ years ago and wound up last year starting with straights. I get just as good a shave with either and take a DE when I am traveling and disposables if I go by air. If you go from straights to DE you just apply all the same shaving techniques to DEs and the transition should be easier than learning a straight. The learning curve on a straight is much higher.

Bob

Used a DE when I was working. Since I retired I've been using a straight. Main reason was time. I know I number of members here will tell you it takes the same time to shave with a DE or straight. It doesn't, for me. If I was still working each day I'd only be using the straight on my 'Pass days'.

I use a DE razor, I prefer it over my electric and Mach 35 razors. I am restoring some antique SR's. When my SR are ready I do want to try them. Having a DE does help you with the way you shave. The way you have to stretch your skin, feel the razor, feel the cream. It's a lot different than using any modern Mach24 blades. Depending in the type of DE and the type of blades you can have very gentle, but also very, very aggressive shaves. You can cut your head almost clean of with a DE haha.

I do believe that you can enjoy a good DE shave as much as a SR shave. If you take your time, learn to prep, learn to make lather etc. etc. And its a good step up from any modern or electric razor for sure...