Thread: SR shave across the body; ie: right hand, left side; left hand, right side?

Hi, I was wondering if anyone SR shaves across the body; ie: right hand, left side; left hand, right side? It seems to be easier (to me) and it also allows you a "better" view in the mirror. Just wondering . . . . .I know some people shave both sides with their dominant hand, but what about opposite sides with opposite hands?

Last poll I saw put us at around 40-50% ambidextrous. I shave with both, left for left right for right except for xtg pass which is primarily left handed due to beard growth direction.

Originally Posted by jfk742

Last poll I saw put us at around 40-50% ambidextrous. I shave with both, left for left right for right except for xtg pass which is primarily left handed due to beard growth direction.

That's the way Lynn Abrams does it in his DVD. I am just starting SR shaving so I will try to learn the "proper way"! It just seems (to me) that right for left and left for right would be easier. Any other comments from you experienced SR shavers would be appreciated!

Yes it's suggested to shave with both hands. Some do t, but I learned that way with my DE over 40 years ago so that's how I do with a straight, seems easier to me that way for some of the goofy angles you need on the XTGand ATG. TC

We each will develop our own individual technique depending on growth pattern, dexterity etc. For example I use my dominant hand for wtg and xtg but for lack of a better term,as you say,shave across my body for the atg pass. And finally , both hands for the fools pass.

It's all personal preference. I use my right hand for my right side and my left hand for my left side. Right hand for the stache and chin.

So far I've only used my right hand which is my dominate hand. I'm a beginner and everything seems easier to me to use my good hand starting out. Want to be able to use my left but not until I get more comfortable with it. Which is coming along quick.

Thank you all for your comments! Wirm, I'm still a newbie, and I have no idea what you mean by "wtg; xtg; atg; and fools pass". I'm guessing but I "think" wtg means with the grain; xtg means across the grain; atg means against the grain and fools pass means your last pass . . . 3rd? Please enlighten me on the lingo! Also, I have no question that both hands need to be involved to "properly" straight razor shave. I was only saying that IMO, the left hand on the right side and the right hand on the left side seems to be easier than visa versa. However, I DO want to learn the correct procedure, so I will go right on right and left on left (and probably right on the middle as I am right handed). Thanks again for all your comments! Ed

A "fool's pass is your upper lip, moustache area, doing an upward stroke towards your nose. I used to do it until 1978 when I quit shaving my moustache. Yep you read that right, I've wore a moustache for 38 years.

Benz, I still wear a moustache!