Thread: Maybe my last DE shave

Jagger 89L razor
Jagger badger brush
No scent Art of Shaving Shave Oil
Kiss My Face Scentless Shave Cream
Thayer Witch Hazel
Trumper Skin Food
Wilkinson Sword Blade
Alum Block

i have been enjoying inconsistent results, due to sensitive skin, my own overly aggressive attempts, and capped by a cold water shave earlier this week. My next effort is going to be a standard hot water prep and one or two WTG passes, and perhaps one XTG. Shaving against the grain is not a good thing, even though I did with cartridge razors. Considering going to a straight...My bride is not supportive, but that's my problem. Is a straight, used with judgment a better option. Just a good bit of money to put up, plus a dedication to maintenance. Any thoughts, critiques or support will be appreciated.

Nothing wrong with adding a straight to the arsenal but be aware that the learning curve is larger than that of the DE. I would work on getting satisfactory results with the DE before jumping out of the frying pan into the fire if I were you. Analyze what the problems are in your DE technique and correct them. When you are well versed in prep, lathering, skin stretching with the DE try the straight. Just IMHO ....

Couldn't agree more with Jimmy. There is a big difference between DE and cartridge - as much to do with angle and pressure as anything else. If you have not yet mastered this and are not getting a close and comfortable shave, re-visit the advise on preparation and post shave routines and maybe take another look at videos.

I don't think a straight will be your answer at the moment. Also if I were you, I wouldn't consider shavettes as a cheaper alternative to straights - just in case you did have this in mind.

Good wisdom given above.

Grateful for the collective wisdom. I'm an only child, so patience is a struggle. Just finished a "by the book" DE shave. Once WTG, and one XTG. No blood. No rash. No itch...yet. I appreciate this forum or wailing wall in my case. Going forward by the numbers!

Now go buy a beautiful old straight from one of the guys that restores them I usually cut myself much less with a straight than with a DE. It's not always as close with a straight - but it is infinitely more satisfying

Have you tried different blades? I know swords did not work for me at all.

I agree, there are better blades out there. Try a blade sampler and I'm sure you'll get better results.

I have tried Derby blades which did not serve me well, and one other which left me with a bad experience. Bad enough I have forgotten the name. I have not tried any of the Feather Blades, 7 O'clocks and the like. Actually, the Wilkinsons have been quite forgiving and okay. I am honored that you are gracious enough to give me an equipement out. My best guess is that this is an operator issue. I do plan to get a sampler pack, and start working with changing one variable at a time. I appreciate your time and interest. Face is in good shape tonight. I lack patience. . .among various other virtues.
bcw

The best overall DE blades i have used are Astra superior platinum, cheap and good, didn't like the Derby blades either. A light touch is needed, let the blade and razor do the work. Less passes while you learn helps too. If you do progress to a straight, i doubt you will ever look back. ( not sure if progress is correct term, some would say regress?)