Yo - safety razor experts. How long does it take to master DE technique? I do three straight passes in under 20 minutes and can barely justify a shave 18-24 hours later having spent 10-months to refine my straight technique where I felt I was doing a very good job. My prep is working, lathers are excellent, always a DFS/BBS in three passes without irritation. No razor burn or regular hints of an aftershave facefire. I've been running almost nick free for many months and finally feel comfortable answering Mrs. Moos morning questions while shaving.


Out of curiousity I got an open comb Merk 1904, stuffed it with an Astra and had several very good shaves the first week out. I quickly found the angle, removed whiskers with razor weight only and got smooth without drama. I got a little better each time. Thing is, with a straight (or a Rolls) I have a morning shave and no five o'clock shadow; when I shave at night I'm always good for 18 hours. With the DE, I can feel (and see) stubble within 12-hours. And the stubble feels pretty sharp-like. So, the shaves are very good, quick and easy but not especially long lasting.


Is this a time/technique issue, a too-mild razor issue, a blade issue or all of above. Or will a DE just not shave everyone like a straight? This isn't downside DE dissing or a deal breaker - just wondering. I probably have interest enough to try one more type of safety razor if the 1904 is just too mild for magical results. I know Feather blades and the Muhle R41 and Gillette adjustables are often recommended as height of the art.

So, before I make any changes, how long should I give the Merk to learn the game?