I’ve been absent from the forum lately due to several factors, though I’ve been working on my honing technique on and off for a few months. I’ve managed to dull several blades and have had small success on a couple, but am still not competent enough to consistently get a good edge.

During this time of experimentation I’ve been using my Temperite wedge, Radio ¼ hollow and occasionally my DD Special #1 to get a feel for how my edges are progressing. As usual, it seems that I just can’t put a bad edge on the Temperite, but the others are hit and miss.

While preparing to shave this morning I realized that I didn’t have an edge to test shave, so I looked in my lineup and grabbed my trusty Berkshire. It hasn’t seen any use in a while, but has always been a dependable blade and I needed to get out the door rather quickly this morning. 25 laps on linen, 50 laps on the Latigo while the HBS Blood Orange worked on my whiskers and then the shave began. Effortless! The blade simply wiped the hairs away. Why did I ever use other blades in favor of this one?

I wish I could remember who sold me this razor. It’s the first shave-ready razor I bought and has always been a reliable addition to my collection, though for some reason I forgot just how good a shave it could give until this morning. It’s not flashy, has slightly chipped scales and doesn’t stand out visually from any of the other razors in the collection, but it’s amazing just how good a shave this blade can provide.

One pass put me in DFS territory, and though I wanted to see if a true BBS could be achieved I didn’t have the time to try. None of the other razors I own have ever accomplished such a fine single-pass shave.

If anyone out there can get heir hands on one of these at a decent price, BUY IT! If you don’t want it, I’ll be happy to relieve you of it. I’m sure mine would like to have a twin to stand next to it.

Thanks to everyone for making this forum so great. I’ve learned a lot over the years and wouldn’t be anywhere near as proficient in my technique if it weren’t for all of the feedback and support I’ve received. I hope everyone has/had a great shave today!

Regards,

- Mark (S-4-C)