DE Convert

So I decided to go again with my Merkur HD after watching some YouTube videos, and voila, BBS!* I think the key (for me anyway) is not being afraid of the razor.* Before I was so scared of cutting myself that I cut myself, without cutting the hair.* This time, I just shaved and switched angles/directions, as needed, with positive results.* *

In total it took me about 40 minutes, but I'm sure that will come down with time.**

In Sum:
Merkur HD shorty;
Personna Blue Blade;
Trumper's Lime Shave Cream;
Silver Tip Badger Brush;
Razor Rock and Nivea Balm to Finish

I have to confess that I've never used a Merkur razor. It's my understanding that they're fairly aggressive. I've owned --and used very regularly -- a Gillette "Knack" that I believe I purchased new in 1973. Yes -- 1973. It's not adjustable, but has a nice long handle. Less aggressive than some other DE's I've played with, and about perfect for my shiny dome. I'm presently using American Personna blades, very pleased with them also.

These sell pretty regularly on eBay for around $25 -- for instance --
Clean 60’s 70’s Gillette Knack Double Edge Razor Twist to Open USA 6 Blades | eBay

Congrats on the successful DE shave. I like to use a DE for a break from using SRs and for trips. Used a DE on and off most of my life but the shave I am getting from a DE now is really improved since I learned to shave with a SR. Like with SRs the key is to use a light touch and keep the right angle on the blade.

Bob

I actually found the Merkur to be pretty mild. My first shave was more of a problem of it not cutting my hair as opposed to cutting me. I find I actually need to put a little bit of pressure to get it to cut. I also choke up on the handle so I have maximum control.

Congrats! I did like the Merkur experience as well, enjoy.

Awesome - sounds like another convert. Honestly, I bounce back and forth between the DE and the HeadBlade ATX. It's really more of a time issue for me in the morning. If I wake up at a reasonable time, I go with the DE (Edwin Jagger with Derby blade) at the sink. If I wake up a tad late, I go with the HeadBlade in the shower. Still go with the straight almost everyday at the sink - but if I'm really late, I may pop a Feather blade in the Edwin Jagger and go with the DE for my face in the morning as well. Nice to have options.

Adam

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Originally Posted by aalbina

Awesome - sounds like another convert. Honestly, I bounce back and forth between the DE and the HeadBlade ATX. It's really more of a time issue for me in the morning. If I wake up at a reasonable time, I go with the DE (Edwin Jagger with Derby blade) at the sink. If I wake up a tad late, I go with the HeadBlade in the shower. Still go with the straight almost everyday at the sink - but if I'm really late, I may pop a Feather blade in the Edwin Jagger and go with the DE for my face in the morning as well. Nice to have options.

Adam

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For speed today I used the ATX, but I really must say that it seems harsher on my head than the DE.

Good on you Mr. Wiggly. Been using my Merkur HD a couple months and doing pretty well until last night I figured out 6 shaves is one to many for my blades/face. Irritated and a weeper but still decent shave. I am about ready to move up to straight shaving pretty soon and have my de as back up...