Thread: Logic question

Originally Posted by Scatterjoy

Hi I'm new to straight razors and honing. I'm finding the art and science and zen of all this deeply satisfying...

So here's the question...
my brand name store cartridges last six months. Sure, I'm light bearded...

But how? They get no maintenance, sometimes jumble around in a gym bag, sometimes fall on the floor. No stropping, oiling, cleaning, loupe examinations ...

why don't we make straight razors out of that magic metal?

They're no fun, but how do they last even a few weeks?

Not trying to offend you, but the logical answer to your question is that there is no magic metal and if your shaves with a straight are not yet better than shaves with a cartridge razors that you’ve used for six months and that has been knocked about in your gym back that only means that you still have some way to go.

Remember, a single mistake in honing, stropping or shaving may ruin an otherwise perfect straight shave.
And yes, it does take a long time and a considerable amount of resilience and perseverance to achieve proficiency in straight shaving.

Just ask any straight shaver who’s been doing this for a few years…


Continue on your straight shaving journey, even if at times you might wonder whether this all is worth it. It’s the journey that matters, not the destination.
And if you should decide that you must give up straight shaving, try a quality safety razor.


B.