Hi everyone,

I've been straight razor shaving for about a month now. You guys were super helpful in the beginning so I thought I'd put in my two cents on what I've learned so far and how things are going. Here are just a few of the many things I have learned:

1. Don't be scared of the razor. If you are truly focused on the task odds are you will not cut yourself too badly. Not like any of the cuts from the cut of the day thread at least

2. Working on getting a great lather is almost as important, IMHO, as working on getting the right technique down for shaving. A dry or overly wet lather will definitely result in a less than enjoyable post shave treatment (after shave burn anyone?)

3. For beginners, once you are comfortable, start with your upper lip and chin and move to your strong hand immediately after. This will ensure that the lather will still be nice and cusioning and moist when you get to your weak hand on whatever side that is (left hand for me) ensuring the best shave possible with the best lather possible each pass. Said in other words, start with your strong hand and move to your weak hand (if using two hands) so that you reduce drying time of the lather.

4. Stropping is key. The difference between when you stropped poorly and when you stropped the razor well is immediately noticeable when you put the blade to your face. Focus on slow and controlled strokes in order to ensure you are keeping the blade in tip-top shape.

5. Relax! I still find myself gripping the razor really hard sometimes and those spots I do pass over while gripping tightly always burn a lot more when applying an after shave than the spots where I focus on a light, delicate grip that allows the blade to do the work.

These are just a few of the many things I have learned. And hopefully they will help the new guys following me learn as we'll. Thank you all for your help and I look forward to picking your minds when it comes to other things (hones, vintage razors, restores, etc.)

Happy shaving!

Sam