Thread: Hello from sunny So. Cal.

Thanks everyone! My first "shave" went well, I performed a couple of WTG passes "successfully". I didn't remove much of the whiskers but I didn't remove any of my face either!

The first few attempts felt awkward but once I got the feel for it the blade just seemed to glide. Like I said, I didn't get anywhere near a close shave but it was a great start. I finished off with a Merkur 34c and Feather blade for a DFS!

My first stropping went well also. The leather strop wasn't as lucky as I was and did get a very tiny nick that I was able to smooth out with just my fingers.

Question: Since I stropped after the shave, do I need to strop again before I shave next time?

Thanks again for your advice!

Welcomed to SRP Congrats on the first shave

Originally Posted by HomerJ

I just received my first razor from SRD last Monday, a Dovo Best Quality 6/8. I've already performed a few successful strokes from the sideburn down and I'm planning another attempt tomorrow.

One of the problems I've encountered so far is that I need to find the correct mirror angle for certain grips. I was having a problem seeing the heel of the blade when using the right hand on the right side of my face because my hand blocks my vision. I'm pretty sure you want to see ALL of the blade at all times, so I've been practicing different grips. We'll see how it goes.

Welcome from a Socal native, 43 years removed. I use my right hand on my right side and my left hand on my left hand on my left side for the first pass (with the grain). On Pass 2 (across the grain) and Pass 3 (against the grain), I use my right hand to shave my left side and vice-versa.

The problem for the beginner is the need to concentrate on what you're doing, which is a distraction before your movements become instinctive.

The good news is that every experienced shaver here has traveled that road and knows what you are feeling. In time you will be able to reach areas that are hard to reach and see things that are hard to see.

I learned how to do most things by watching YouTube videos. You will get it and will be glad you persevered!

This site is the best resource for questions and advice. At the end of the day a technique that's best for you will evolve.

Welcome from SoCal. Glad you enjoyed your first shave.

I performed my first "complete" shave today. WTG, XTG and ATG and ended up with a shave that I could actually take into the office. Used the 34c for some minor touchups.

I saw that Lynn holds the razor with the scales between his index and middle finger. I tried this today and solved my mirror issue (I suffer from FSF, fat sausage fingers =)).

I also used a grip that I saw online for AGT (going S to N) where the index finger wraps around the shank instead of resting on top.

I stropped & lightly oiled the blade and locked it up, ready for next weekend. Can't wait!

Homer
The answer to your question is yes, you should strop before your next shave. I've always read that you strop before & after your next shave, so I always do that. I figure that even though you strop it after you shave, you should still strop it right before your next shave to know that you have a freshly clean & sharp edge.

Originally Posted by engine46

Homer
The answer to your question is yes, you should strop before your next shave. I've always read that you strop before & after your next shave, so I always do that. I figure that even though you strop it after you shave, you should still strop it right before your next shave to know that you have a freshly clean & sharp edge.

Thanks, I'll do that next time.