Thread: Advice re keeping the edge

Not mentioned is stretching the skin while shaving. It sounds more like a strop thing though.

Spend more time prepping the beard...

There are two steps to proper stropping,,
1. Do No Harm
2. Improve the edge

You have to without a doubt accomplish step 1 as fast as possible, accomplishing step 2 takes a bit more doing...

Thanks, Glen. I put the shave oil on while my face is still wet from the shower, and I work the lather up as thick and moist as I can. I tried a five-minute hot towel, but it didn't seem to make any difference. As you all advise, I'll start changing my strop technique, and we'll see where that goes.

Where do you live?

Maybe you can hook up with one of the guys and with someone watching what you are doing, maybe they can spot what might be the problem and help you improve.

Have fun.

I'm thinking one or two things may help. One being getting a paddle strop (Lynn makes a good one) but that requires a small investment (worth it though!) The other won't cost a dime. That is trying scything strokes when you are shaving. I had a similar shaving experience a few years ago and when I learned scything I could get in 1 pass what earlier took 3-4 passes. There are a few good Youtubes on it.

It could be your strop, what are you using? On the sharpen side with little to no pressure on a full hollow razor, i can hear the blade ring almost like steel on steel. With that i have been able to maintain an edge for over 20 shaves, and i have a heavy beard.

Thanks, 10P. I do stretch the skin, but it doesn't seem to make much difference. I'm still guessing that my strop technique needs improvement. Gonna start there.
SA