Quote Originally Posted by Mijbil View Post
You know, I've been wondering about alum blocks: I use one every day, and it stings a little bit all over when I do - more, of course, if there's a nick. What I'm wondering is, is it *possible* to have a shave (close on a moderate to tough beard) that is so smooth and proper and the alum block doesnt sting at all? Is that what you guys who have been refining your techinique/razors/honing/everything for years get to? Or is that impossible, and it's just a fact of life that the alum block will sting some (though of course how *much* it stings can still be an indicator of how irritating the shave was)?
I'm sure this is possible, and common for shavers who really have their prep and technique down pat. I've managed it a few times, and it's a way for me to "grade" my technique as I continue to learn. When it's right, it feels like a cool block of plastic I'm rubbing around my face. Sweet!