Hail from Asgard!

Not really Asgard, but well met regardless. I made the initial investment in equipment to begin straight razor shaving quite some time ago, and really tried to make it work.

I was absolutely mutilating my face though. Having issues with face prep and lather, having it dry out after too long on my face or getting cold and not having my beard soft enough, likely stropping and technique issues causing pretty major shaving rash/injuries on my face... just lots that put me off. It's been about a year, so I'm going to give it another go. I'm currently re-educating myself, and will try to work on my lathering technique (puck soap in a container that I transferred to a mug), but would like a piece of advice: Being a year since my last straight razor shave, should I send it out for my free second honing before I start in on this again?

Also, would it be beneficial to get a shave at a barber to see what it should feel like?

I guess an intro post should have a bit about me... I'm in my early 30s, enjoy martial arts and crossfitting, I'm in IT. I dig camping and overlanding, adventuring in general. I like to live simply and straight razor shaving fits in with that very well.

Thanks for putting together such a great community, I'm looking forward to successful shaves in the future!

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Originally Posted by Justaerin

I'm currently re-educating myself, and will try to work on my lathering technique (puck soap in a container that I transferred to a mug), but would like a piece of advice: Being a year since my last straight razor shave, should I send it out for my free second honing before I start in on this again?

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YES!!! That is absolutely the best thing you can do right now. Otherwise if your next shave is still miserable you won't know whether it's your prep, technique, or the blade that's the issue. Getting it pro honed gives you the best chance for success *and* eliminates a variable

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Justaerin

Also, would it be beneficial to get a shave at a barber to see what it should feel like?

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Yes and no... Yes in that if the barber knows what he'she is doing, you'll get a feel for it and for what kinds of results you can aim for. But if he/she isn't that great, the shave may suck, which won't get you anywhere. And possibly no in that they will almost certainly use a shavette type razor, not a traditional straight. They have different feels.

But what the heck: getting a shave from a barber is a luxury and a treat. I say go for it. :) It may or may not let you know what to expect, but it should at least be enjoyable.

And welcome!

Here are a couple of links to check out too:

Beginner's guide to straight razor shaving - Straight Razor Place Wiki

First straight razor shave - Straight Razor Place Wiki

Good luck

Welcome to SRP!

Excellent, thanks for the welcome gents. I'll definitely take your advice and check up on those links.

Cheers

Welcome and feel free to ask questions and wee will help if able. We all have issues to start with but practice is the only way to get better. Good luck.

I just started myself, and started with a disposable blade straight razor. Not only was it a cheaper way to start (in case I hated it) but it takes stropping/honing out of the equation. I only got cut up the first time, and have had a lot of luck since then.

I would also recommend you get your blade in top condition before you start.

If your lather starts to dry out, go back over it with your brush.

If your beard doesn't soften enough, shave right after a shower, or try a nice hot towel. I do both and have never had a problem.

Start out going with the grain. Your shave won't be as close, but you'll get some practice and likely have less nics and burn.

Where in the US are you? What kind of martial arts are you into?