Thread: A Beginner Hoping for a Reality Check!

Using only your dominant hand is fine if your beard grows up and down. But sooner or later you may find yourself posting about how you cant seem to get your neck BBS and its really bothering you. Everyone's beard pattern is different but most will find that there are certain ATG cuts that can only be accomplished by using the other hand. It takes a little time to get used to but you'll find it worth it shortly thereafter.

I've been switching hands, and it's slowly working for me. I have to pay even more attention with my left hand and it doesn't feel as "natural," but I'm no longer holding my breath and shaking my hand (LOL) and in some areas the shave actually is better than on the right side of my face. So, for now at least, I'm a convert to the "switching hands" method.

Originally Posted by OCDshaver

Using only your dominant hand is fine if your beard grows up and down. But sooner or later you may find yourself posting about how you cant seem to get your neck BBS and its really bothering you. Everyone's beard pattern is different but most will find that there are certain ATG cuts that can only be accomplished by using the other hand. It takes a little time to get used to but you'll find it worth it shortly thereafter.

Couldn't agree more. Just think there are many levels of skill here. No need to try the harder techniques when you are first learning to shave with a straight razor.

Ugh. Preoccupied and rushing this morning, and I nicked myself 3 times. Tomorrow it's back to "slow is smooth, and smooth is safe"!

Originally Posted by DCB2

Ugh. Preoccupied and rushing this morning, and I nicked myself 3 times. Tomorrow it's back to "slow is smooth, and smooth is safe"!

Oh well at least it's the weekend.

Originally Posted by DCB2

Thanks very much for the support and the great advice guys! I'm particularly happy to hear that I'm not too old to start shaving with a straight razor

You are never to old. I started just a few months ago and I'm 80 (second childhood and all that). You've bee given a lot of advice to sift through, let me add one more. I have a pressure problem, too much pressure. At least till some one suggested the following: When starting shaving, calm the mind and concentrate on a shallow angle for the razor and image shaving only the lather (stretch skin where possible). You will be amazed at the results! For me, a ton less irritation and a closer shave. Like I say, " My two cents, take it or leave it."

I agree with Razorfeld, you are never too old to start! I started a couple of months ago and I am 71. ( Courtesy of my son recommending it to me )
Found it very difficult at first as I have a very strong wiry beard, but with good prep and a carefully gentle touch I am getting there. Just keep persevering!

Originally Posted by luckypip

I agree with Razorfeld, you are never too old to start! I started a couple of months ago and I am 71. ( Courtesy of my son recommending it to me )
Found it very difficult at first as I have a very strong wiry beard, but with good prep and a carefully gentle touch I am getting there. Just keep persevering!

Thank you luckypip, nice to know there are other "youngsters" out there. Maybe we need to start a new thread for 70 and older and penalize any upstart under 70 that posts on it with a year of dull razors as retaliation.

Razorfeld and Luckypip, that's fantastic! And thanks for the great advice!