Newbie-ish

[russelldavis]

Hi, I joined the world of safety razor/DE shaving about a year ago and have never looked back. I use a vintage Gillette razor with Voskhod blades. I was recommended the Gilette as a good starter razor. I have joined the forum to get some recommendations on where to go from here, although I am quite happy with my current set up, I guess there would be benefits from a slightly more agressive razor?

[crouton976]

Welcome to SRP!!

I don't have much advice for you on the DE side of wet shaving, but I can tell you that using a SE has been PHENOMENAL for me!! If you ever decide to give it a try, a generic shavette can be had for next to nothing from a beauty supply store, and you could cut one of your current blades in half to use with it.

I'm sure one of the more experienced DE users will be along to answer and give recommendations...

Anyway, again, welcome!

[russelldavis]

Thanks for that. Is it a big step up from DE to SE? It looks terrifying, although I thought DE look terrifying before I tried it and now I can't believe how second nature it is. I have to shave every day, I don't mind that is takes longer with a DE than it used to with what I used to use, does it take even longer with a SE?
Thanks!

[crouton976]

Yeah, I'd definitely say it takes longer, based on the few times I've used a DE, but not by much once you've learned your way around a straight.

Honestly, I would say you are more likely to cut yourself with a cartridge razor or DE than a straight in most cases, mainly because you can see the razor's edge as it touches your skin. Also, because the edge on DE blades is usually coated, with a polymer if I remember right, it produces an edge that makes cutting easier. A straight razor is a bit more forgiving. You really just have to watch anything that sticks out on your face catching the tip of the blade. Otherwise, there's not a lot of difference in my limited experience.

There is definitely more maintenance involved with a real straight, since you can't exactly just change or the blade, but I definitely think the shave is smoother.

Just my two cents...

If your curious, see about getting a cheap shavette and giving it a go. You may find that you like it and can then move on to a real straight.