Thread: Experts needed

Hello,

Im brand new to the forum and to straight razors alike. I recently purchased a razor that is most certainly not shave ready. Although it is very sharp it will not provide a comfortable or complete shave and leaves terrible razor burn. Im fairly confident in my technique and beard prep but still not satisfied with my shave

First, I'd like some one to varify that I have a quality razor that would be worth honing or having honed before spending money on the products or service.

Here is the razor in question

Better photo


Not sure if it can be seen well due to iPad use but the blade says solingen best quality.
On the grip it says dovo solingen and next that that on the grip in very small print it says made in Germany. It's supposed to be carbon steel and the scales seem to be made of plastic or acrylic. Thanks. In advance for any help.

Dovo'S are good razors. Have it honed and enjoy

+1 get her honed and enjoy

Like everyone has said... Dovo makes a decent razor... it looks like yours was made in west germany according to the box... the issue is no mass produced razor is truly "shave ready" when new, some are closer than others but they mainly need a little hone love to be truly ready.... send it out you will be delighted.

Justin,

The guys are telling you right. One thing worth mentioning is the razor burn - almost always from too much pressure while shaving. Especially w/ a marginal edge, the temptation to use more pressure is almost universal with a new shaver. So when you get a good edge on that Dovo - remember that using that same amount of pressure will likely turn you into a surgeon. 'Took me months to learn what 'no pressure' meant while shaving. Its natural for us to think of taking the blade to the stubble. We are probably better off thinking of making the stubble available to the blade with the way we stretch and stroke. Done right, no pressure beyond keeping the edge in contact w/ the skin is the rule. If you need to use pressure to do that - your stretch and stroke need changing.
If you need a hand w/ edges, PM me. 'Just the cost of return postage.

Originally Posted by pinklather

Justin,

The guys are telling you right. One thing worth mentioning is the razor burn - almost always from too much pressure while shaving. Especially w/ a marginal edge, the temptation to use more pressure is almost universal with a new shaver. So when you get a good edge on that Dovo - remember that using that same amount of pressure will likely turn you into a surgeon. 'Took me months to learn what 'no pressure' meant while shaving. Its natural for us to think of taking the blade to the stubble. We are probably better off thinking of making the stubble available to the blade with the way we stretch and stroke. Done right, no pressure beyond keeping the edge in contact w/ the skin is the rule. If you need to use pressure to do that - your stretch and stroke need changing.
If you need a hand w/ edges, PM me. 'Just the cost of return postage.

I agree with pink it also took me awhile to get the pressure just right and I'm still working on it. It takes time and patience. And I'd take up in pinks offer to sharpen ur blade cause he produces "AWEOME EDGES" they are smooth as silk but good luck and welcome to the most informative site on the internet

Pink lather- pmed

Syslight- if dovo is decent what are some more quality brand. Are there small luthiers if so can you point me to some I'd def love to by the best of the best after I am proficient with the one I already have

Originally Posted by JustinC

... I'd def love to by the best of the best after I am proficient with the one I already have

You'll find that the quality of honing and your technique will vary the cutting quality of any razor. Asking for the best is a question with no definitive answer and varies from person to person. Some of MY better razors are unknown brands. Any razor that is reputed as the best has a high price tag on them mainly due to the number of people seeking then out. The best is a personal preference and will change as you gain more experience.

Justin - You have one of the best razors sold on the market. Send it to one of the guys who will get it shave ready for you. While you wait for its return, practice stropping with a butter knife. Take time to really learn how to do this simple chore, it will hold you in a good place upon the return of your Dovo. Be very gentle as you use this tool. Razor burn is evidence that you are using the blade to scrape and not using it to cut. See if you can find someone locally to help guide you in this process. And most of all, be patient. This is a journey, welcome aboard.