Thread: Hello everyone! Need help!

Hello!

Since childhood I've ALWAYS wanted to lather and shave with a straight razor. Just looked so smooth and clean in the movies and on TV.

I've now shaved with a straight razor twice, a Dovo 6/8" Best Quality razor purchased from StraightRazorDesign.com. I did not purchase a strop nor use one, as the website indicated the razor would come professionally sharpened.

Here is my problem: the razor doesn't seem to "freely glide" against my skin. Sometimes it does, most the time it doesn't. Instead, I get a bit of pulling and tugging, and I think it has to do with my angle of attack or pre-shave prep.

Pre-Shave Prep:
-Shower
-Exfoliate face
-Hand scrub cream
-Lather Jack Black Cream + shave soap together and apply

Let me know what you guys think. It almost feels as if proper lubrication is missing from my face when I shave.

All the best, and good to meet you!
Daniel

Even though the razor came shave ready, you still need to strop it after every use.

Originally Posted by johnmrson

Even though the razor came shave ready, you still need to strop it after every use.

Part of the reason I avoided purchasing one was price. Is there a $35 strop worthy of purchase?

I dont have one but this sight has a few that come highly recommended by those who use them. 3" "Bid Daddy" Leather Strop

Unfortunately you need a strop. It is an essential part of your straight shaving gear. I haven't used the one that backtobasics has linked but I am a fan of the wider 3 inch strops.

Looks easy in the movies, but in reality, it is something you need to learn over a period of time. A strop is essential, as is a good lather. There are cheap strops out there, poor man's strop it think? Probably a good way to start, most new guys cut their strop, so no point paying a fortune on one till you get the knack. Hang in there, be patient. You are at the best site to learn, and it is worth the effort.

Originally Posted by johnmrson

Unfortunately you need a strop. It is an essential part of your straight shaving gear. I haven't used the one that backtobasics has linked but I am a fan of the wider 3 inch strops.

Ok, buying one tonight.

Originally Posted by Danforz

Part of the reason I avoided purchasing one was price. Is there a $35 strop worthy of purchase?

Originally Posted by backtobasics

I dont have one but this sight has a few that come highly recommended by those who use them. 3" "Bid Daddy" Leather Strop

I have one and it is an excellent starter strop. This vendor sells replacement leather if you cut it learning how. It's good to get 3" because then you don't have to learn the X pattern while stropping. Here's a stropping video: