Take a wicked sharp blade and hild it to your neck?? You nuts?

So started a conversation recently with a friend of mine whom I had just told that I was going to try this old (new) shaving technique. I have had a desire to do this for some time, and as I get older (mid 60's) the urge has gotten stronger. I will be retiring at the end of this year, and after a stress filled and busy career, I have the overwhelming desire to sloooow dowwwwn. Well, every one knows that you don't straight shave with any great rapidity....at least not more than once, I would imagine. That, and a certain nostalgia for a simpler lifestyle. I remember my Dad, and in fact my Grandfather shaving with a straight, and the appeal for that "simpler" time is very strong.
So much for analysis, and yes, I loved my Mom, etc. I have a brand new Dovo 5/8 "Silver Steel" and accoutrements on the way for Christmas, and can't wait. Last thing to do is update insurance, and begin hacking. Ouch, that thought makes my face hurt. Stay close, friends. I'm gonna need a lot of help.

Barry

Hello Barry, from another mid 60'er. Quite a few of us with a yearn for the simpler times and mechanical things that actually have parts. Dovo is a good razor. Did it come honed to shave ready, or does it still have the factory edge? They claim factory edges as shave ready, rarely ever is, at least not comfortably. If factory, I would send it to one of the members here to have it honed, unless you're an experienced honer already. You'll hear this more than once, but it will make your expericence with straights a lot more pleasant to start. Look in the Member's Sales (classifieds) section then in Member Services. If you ever have any questions, there a many here with years of experience and they're always ready and willing to help. Welcome to SRP and have fun!! Best of Luck! Best Regards, Howard

Thought this link would make it easier, if you're interested in sending it out. http://straightrazorpalace.com/class...wcat.php?cat=4

Welcome!

I'm only in my mid 30's and started shaving with straights because I really liked the idea of slowing down and taking my time with my shave, Now I find that even with my hectic work schedule, the fact that I have to slow down and methodically shave puts me at a better frame of mind for the day. Well worth it IMHO!

Also, you may want to get Lynn's DVD showing honing and shaving techniques...

I'm mid-sixties, started with a straight razor over a year ago.

Fear is good -- it keeps you careful at the beginning of the learning curve. You get over the fear, but -- if you're smart -- you never become sloppy with a straight razor in your hand. No matter how many times you've shaved, that blade is still unforgiving of mistakes.

For rushed mornings, a DE razor gives a nice shave. You can cut yourself with one, but it won't go deep.

I bet that everyone on this website keeps a styptic pencil, or an alum block, within arm's reach when they shave. Even a DE is more likely to nick than a multi-blade cartridge, IMHO.

Enjoy the journey, there's lots of help here.

Charles