Thread: A question about double edge shaving

I started to shave with a double edge Gillette razor a few months ago for several reasons. Reason number one is that I left double edge shaving years ago for the Electric razor and later the multi blade razors along with the disposable plastic razors for traveling. A few months ago I was looking through the items in the garage and found a box that contained my late father in law's personal items and saw a Gillette Double Edge Razor. I remembered both seeing my father shave with a like razor and I also remembered my youth. Well, to make a long story short I cleaned and have been using it ever since. Now for my questions, I still use the foam shaving cream, however, I have purchases two classic Old Spice mugs and one Burma Shave Mug and I am now looking to purchase some more current soap as the only ones I have are classic Williams and Burma Shave and I do not wish to use them. Next, I have read a couple of threads about after shave and everybody seems to dislike Brut, I have used Brut in moderation for many years and do not have a problem with it, but I also use Old Spice and want to try some others. I would like to ask for some ideas about a non offending After Shave and shaving soap that would be right for a 65 year old that still likes to camp and go to Sports Car Races.

My last question is there anybody who can give me help with the name of a razor. I have a Gillette non adjustable razor that the top opens when you twist the bottom of the handle. The razor has no lettering on it to be able to tell the year such as an A-1 or anything. The handle is exactly three inches from the bottom of the shaving head. It has two shallow rings on the knob that turns approx 1/4 inch apart and another much deeper righ about 3/8 of an inch above where the knob attaches to the rest of the handle. The pattern on the handle is composed of many small dots looking like they form a diamond type design.

I know that I have taken a lot of space and asked what I am sure many will think stupid questions, however, any and all help that you might give would be very appreciated.

If you can post a picture it would make it easier to identify the razor.

I would lose the foam and invest in a brush and some real soap. You will find it makes for a great experience. As far as AS preps go remember you are only as old as you think and act so just get what you like. There is no such thing as getting what fits a 65 year old. (ask me how I know-har har)

I have used the straight razor design sandalwood and found it to be very pleasing scent that is subtle and provided a great shave. The pattern you describe in knurling also a picture may help others date your razor. One of the over all razor and one of under the head should help a lot.

As far as soaps go, I always prefer DR Harris Marlborough. It won't leave much scent on your face after you rinse but it lathers great and smells great. And it has great glide and protection during the shave. They make an almond scent too if you think you may not like the scent. Its a tallow based soap that performs great fro me.

Mayberryman,

There are a myriad number of aftershaves and soaps/creams out there to explore. If you are after classic scents I'd recommend Pinaud Clubman, English or Spanish Leather and Tabac for aftershaves. As for soaps/creams, the aforementioned Tabac is great, as is Mitchell's Wool Fat. In fact, you can't go wrong with any English soap or cream. There are many more. It really depends on your preference of scent in the end.

Originally Posted by Mayberryman

I know that I have taken a lot of space and asked what I am sure many will think stupid questions, however, any and all help that you might give would be very appreciated.

Please don't think these are stupid questions. That's what we are here for, to answer member's wetshaving queries.

Congratulations for rediscovering the DE. I, and many others here have multiple safety razors as part of our collections. A picture would give you an ID in minutes .

Canned shave cream doesn't give the same comfort and protection of a traditional shave soap. I recommend a brush of your choice (I'm a fan of boar, or "natural bristle" but many love badger). There are plenty of soap options, but I recommend Proraso Red.

As far as aftershaves go, you are 65 Sir, you wear what you want. I am 36, and I prefer Avon "leather" or Old Spice, but I don't try to impress anyone (I'm married). I have some Adidas aftershave, my wife likes it, but it smells like chemical waste to me.

Rob

Edit:
Holey crap, I just re-read your post. You have a double ring?!!!!!
That's not just cool, that could be a BIG DEAL! Please post a pic!

Originally Posted by robellison01

I don't try to impress anyone (I'm married).

Don't let the wife read that or you might not be married for much longer.....

Originally Posted by Ryan82

Don't let the wife read that or you might not be married for much longer.....

Some days I have to weigh my options.

Originally Posted by robellison01

Congratulations for rediscovering the DE. I, and many others here have multiple safety razors as part of our collections. A picture would give you an ID in minutes .

Canned shave cream doesn't give the same comfort and protection of a traditional shave soap. I recommend a brush of your choice (I'm a fan of boar, or "natural bristle" but many love badger). There are plenty of soap options, but I recommend Proraso Red.

As far as aftershaves go, you are 65 Sir, you wear what you want. I am 36, and I prefer Avon "leather" or Old Spice, but I don't try to impress anyone (I'm married). I have some Adidas aftershave, my wife likes it, but it smells like chemical waste to me.

Rob

Edit:
Holey crap, I just re-read your post. You have a double ring?!!!!!
That's not just cool, that could be a BIG DEAL! Please post a pic!

First of all, I would like to thank each and every one of you who make reply to my questions. This morning I did my first shave using shaving soap and a brush. The soap I used was some fairly old Williams Shaving Soap as that and a cake of Burma Shave soap was all I had on hand. I did use my Gillette Fat Boy Razor set on number nine and got a very close shave using a two lather combination of WTG and then ATG action. I must say that the shave was very relaxing and close. For an after shave combination I used Brut skin conditioner and Old Spice (new style) after shave.

On a side note I must say that this interest in double edge shaving can be addictive and also can lead to trips to the local antique shops and collectable/junk shops for items that I never thought I would look for. So far I have 13 Gillette Double Edge Razors, three segals, six gem single edge and one star razor. I also picked up a side addiction and now I look for Old Spice Glass Bottles and Mugs.

To think I told my wife I took up this form of shaving to save money! Oh, by the way, my bride of 42 years knows me well enough that she did not believe that statement for a minute.

Congratulations on the enjoyment of DE shaving! No picture of the razor, yet?