Well...dammit...I could not wait anymore. I got 2 vintage razors from eBay but need time to make them shave-ready and waiting on strop, etc.

So yesterday, I went to Sally's Beauty supply and picked up a shavette with Personna and Derby blades. Broke one Personna in half and had at it. Now, I know Lynn recommends starting slow and shaving down one side first, etc. but I kept getting adventurous. So got three nicks...one on my chin, one on my cheek which is actually about a cm. long and then a gusher where I sliced off a bump which sent blood dripping down the side of my face and then dripping off my chin. Finished my whole face in my first go. Needed help with the disposable to go ATG and some hard to reach spots but all in all a pretty successful attempt.

I used to shave with a DE and got a bit peeved off with the costs of the disposables. Got me a Walmart boar-bristle brush and soap (Van...) and the shaves I got with just that and a disposable were enough to have my 6-year old notice (Oooh papa, your skin is soft...the thorns are really gone..kiss kiss kiss). So I am hooked, I am getting some Godrej cream from India and a DE which my mother is bringing in today. Can't wait to get my razors shave-ready. (One Max Voos and the other Figaro...both Solingen vintages)

I am convinced that I hate the handles...maybe it is the lightness of the shavette and loss of balance but I can totally see myself going no-folding straights. Also have to start investigating making my own since I am a wood-worker (hobby) and also have access to some metal shops. (Razor building DIY advice welcome...I might go 13sc26 or S30V)

I might post a pic of the gusher...maybe even make it my Avatar.