Thread: My first attempt!

Had another go at this straight razor shaving so here is how I got on - before I explain how it went it's probably better to divulge what it is I am using exacttly! Bluebeard's Revenge shavette with some Derby single edge blades in a box of 100 and I got some Alum block. I have a cheapish shaving brush which is made by Wilkinson Sword and then some Boots branded shaving soap.

Well there was little bit more satisfaction today after a bit of practise yesterday unbladed to figure out the best way to use the razor without blocking my vision. So what did I actually achieve today? The sideburn area down the cheek either side of my face and down the neckline slightly has been shaved, along with the moustache area.

Unattempted as yet: The chin area I have left alone and will finish off with the electric shaver because I feel as though I have done enough for a first attempt or second attempt if we are being exact! I also have not attempted the throat area.

What are my first impressions of shaving with a straight razor/shavette? After initial disappointment and feeling of disastrous failure, things have improved and in fact the quality of shave is unsurpassed by any cartridge based wet shave. The areas I have tackled with the straight razor feel more smooth and that only encourages me to practise more.

I did have a very tiny 'nick' on my right cheek side just level with the bottom of my earlobe in indexfinger's width in on the cheek. That was using my right hand for both sides. At least it wasn't as bad as the nightmare I had a few nights earlier about shaving with one of these things, as in the dream the cheek was cut deep and the skin rolling off the cheekbone and I'm trying desperately to hold the flesh up on my face!

What is my assessment of straight razor shaving? Well to be perfectly honest, I certainly feel that if anyone has never tried a straight razor before, to go out and buy a shavette first. Learn the technique, no worries about stropping and honing. I could have easily given up on it yesterday and chucked it all in the bin.

I'm rather glad that I stuck with it. Rome was not built in a day, and it will be similar for most people attempting their first shave with a straight razor. At least I don't feel disappointed about it all now like I did yesterday. I think you just need to let it come to you.

G.

Yep, me too. After shakily carving a strip down my cheek that first time, I felt a twinge of regret, thinking "what have I gotten myself into?"

Second time was better. Third time more so. Now I'm addicted.