Thread: Str8 razor and DE shavers

Prior to shaving with a str8, I've used an electric, disposables, and a Mach3. I have never used a DE. Have any of you used a DE for the first time after using a str8? Other than just to change things up by using a different razor, what has been your experience with using a DE after having shaved with a str8? I'm trying to determine whether it's worth the investment to buy a DE and blades or to just stick with using a str8 which I enjoy using. Since using a str8 for 5 months, I like not having to buy cartridges or more disposables any more.

Thanks,
Rob

Hi Rob,

I still like the straight razor mo betta, but the DE is a nice shave. I have about 20 Gillette adjustables and a couple new Merkur's. If you pick one up, be careful to use as little pressure as possible. Nice clean shave. I like the Feather Professional blades that Ray sells. Actually, I use the DE more on the road than anything. I am traveling more with a straight lately as I have been checking my baggage. Keep the questions coming.

Lynn

I get the closest shave with a str8, but I do use an adjustable Gillette on occasion just for a change. It gives me a good shave with either Merkur or Zorik blades. Either shaving method is a great excuse for SCAD.



Wayne

I've thought about trying a DE just for S&G's. A straight gives a much better shave than a Mach-3. A DE seems like a compromise between a straight and modern razors, so I've thought about it. My first roommate shaved with a DE, and I feel somewhat inclined to try one just for old time's sake.

Hi,

I have been using my DE for about 2 years before switching to the Str8 recently.

I agree with the rest of the forum: the DE gives a nice and comfortable shave, nearly as close as a Str8. And currently I am much faster with it (no wonder, need much more practice with the Str8 ) - but speed is not really an issue for me.

One point regarding travelling: at least here in Europe its a mixed bag. There are some airports that won't allow a DE on the hand luggage (don't think about taking a Str8 ) - so I have to resort to the Mach3 there.

CU,
-Axel-

Axel,

Check and see if Bic Metals are available where you are. They are very much like a DE, although a bit light weight.

Randy

Hi Randy,

thanks for the information, a good hint. I will see if I can get them over here in germany.

CU,
-Axel-

i love the str8 shave but on my neck and near my ears/jawline, i have to use a DE to touch up. i recently tried a mach 3 turbo blade and gosh, it was easy not having to stretch the skin, and you can shave the back of the neck dry with it, but throw that one away. so i use my straights to get the best cheek shave i can get, and then to get the neck as best i can get it. but the DE allows a true east to west and west to east shave that i can not get with the strr8 and thus a little closer shave

sam

Originally Posted by finsfan

i love the str8 shave but on my neck and near my ears/jawline, i have to use a DE to touch up. i recently tried a mach 3 turbo blade and gosh, it was easy not having to stretch the skin, and you can shave the back of the neck dry with it, but throw that one away. so i use my straights to get the best cheek shave i can get, and then to get the neck as best i can get it. but the DE allows a true east to west and west to east shave that i can not get with the strr8 and thus a little closer shave

sam

Hey (Hoosier for "Hi"), Sam ...... A DE at the start is what I think almost everyone falls back on for the hard spots. As you gain skill and confidence, your DE will be relagated to your home museum.

Hint: In the troat and underchin areas, I only use about half the available straight blade. The heel portion of the blade is a great fit for the hollow on either side of my trachea. The pointy half I use for the harder areas in the curve of the jawline, taking short strokes. -- daviduthe

Guys -- Thanks for the replies. I appreciate the comments.

David -- your comment about the DE ending up in a home museum is what I'm anticipating will happen. I'm no pro at using a str8, but for the most part, I end up with a really decent shave and I enjoy using it. Additionally, I like the nostalgia which comes with using a str8.

Kyle -- I agree with you. I always thought that a DE was used by guys who never had the nerve to use a str8, but came close to it thus choosing to use a DE. I also thought that using a DE after using a str8 was going backwards on the razor chain especially if you enjoying using a str8. However, as you stated it may be worth trying it "for old time sake".

Excluding the traveling aspect of a DE, for those of you who use a DE as well as a str8, knowing what you now know, are you glad you have a DE or would you now say it was a waste of cash?

Thanks again.
Rob