Thread: Hello from The Repulic of Texas

I've been using a straight razor now for about 3 months now off and on. I say off and on because I had a little accident on my Polaris Ranger and ended up with 30 stitches on my left cheek, about 10 days into my straight razor experience. I went without shaving for about two weeks because of that. Now I have a nice scar there that recesses in, but hair still grows there. I was pretty amazed at how easy it is to shave along the scar with a straight blade. There is no way I could get the hair there with the old Gillette Sensor. Right now I'm using a Gold Dollar razor I got in some cheap kit on-line. I'm looking for a better quality razor or two now. That is how I found this wonderful place. I wear a beard about 9 months out of the year, but still keep the neck shaved as well as my upper cheeks to keep a even look. I'd really like a blade a little shorter than most, as I think it would help in trimming around the top of my beard. If that is not a correct assumption please let me know. I'll read more of the instructional stuff on here as I have time, but one question. Do most shave with primarily just one hand or with both hands? I right handed and can get the right side of my face as smooth as a baby's bottom, but I still am not getting as smooth of a shave on the left side. I've tried using my right hand and just cant get the results on the left side, particularly the neck, that I want. In the last week I've been trying to use my left hand on my left side, but even after a week or so, don't have the control I had with my right hand the first day. Funny thing, I think I nicked myself the first few times I shaved, so I went out and bought a styptic pencil, and haven't nicked myself since.

Hello MattDenson and good to see a fellow Texan on board! I've been shaving with a SR for about 1 1/2 years now and am still learning. The advice that you will receive hear is good advice. These guys have been SR shaving for a long time. The best thing that I can pass along to you from what I have learned is learn your face and take your time. Slow down to speed up. It will take you a while for your left hand to respond the way your right hand does. Be patient and you'll succeed.

Welcome from SE Washington State.

As John has said, go slow so you can learn faster. Well he said something like that!

Here's something that you might like to read as I feel it tells a lot about going slow and having patience. Also about listening to the long time members counsel.

I'ts a long strange road but well worth the journey; IF you have patience for the twists and turns in the road.

Smooth Shaving

Straight Razor Place - Beginners' Tips: January 2016

Hi and welcome. Yeah left hand does take a while. I am still not as good with my left and would say I'm still right dominant. Try not to keep buying new stuff and learn how to use what you have. Every time you change something it makes the learning curve longer. Good luck and any questions feel free to ask

Welcome to the forum.