Thread: How I hold a straight

Ever since I started shaving with a straight I saw how people were holding their straight razors with the scale 90 degrees to the blade and using the tang. Basically what's considered the correct way to hold it. And if you search 'how to hold a straight' that's the grip that will come up.

I tried this and never liked it i didn't feel comfortable with this grip and i never got the stability that i liked. Since the beginning I pretty much have held the straight razor with the scales in the same plane. I haven't altered my grip from this for years and i enjoy this method and get a good shave with the angle i like. I have attached a picture of how I hold my straight. I'm not asking for anyone to critique my method because it works for me. I was just wondering if others have other ways of holding their straight besides the conventional method.

There are many "conventional" ways to hold a SR Different ways to hold a straight razor - Straight Razor Place Library .

I do hold my SR with the handle inline with the blade going ATG on my neck but use various other holds on other parts of my face depending on what direction I am going. People will find a style of holding the razor that works and is comfortable/safe for them.

Bob

I move my scales around the whole shave, I have a few hairs trying to make my beard go into my chest hair and use a grip similar to yours. Everywhere else is just on how I feel that day.

I definitely use that grip doing XTG on my cheeks and probably a few other places without knowing it.
Come to think of it, I really on use the traditional grip during the WTG pass.
The rest of the time I adjust the scales with my pinky finger to balance the blade.

My hold varies a little with what direction my stroke is and which razor I am using. It does not vary a lot from razor to razor, but a little from a 5/8 full hollow to an 8/8 wedge. It changes quite a bit from ATG to XTG. For the most part if you are comfortable and have very good control of the blade you are holding it correctly. Don't get too hung up on shaving like this guy or that guy, there is a ton of how it works for me around here. Your Milage May Vary YMMV is seen a lot in posts. This is another case of it. So scale straight, or at 90 or somewhere in between, one finger or two on the tail, tight, loose or deathgrip, it will take a little experimenting to find how your are comfortable and getting great shaves. It is good to see people finding their way.

I hold mine like that on the up stroke for the bottom of my neck. Basically from my collar about half way up my neck. I have not been able to get a comfortable shave ATG so I just don't do it. Neat subject though IMO

I shave WTG with a conventional grip and ATG like you are holding it. Whatever works best for you is the correct way for you

same here, scales parallel to the blade held like a kamisori and as shown depending on the area and direction.

I hold it 'in line' when ATG too. Never really given it any thought. Just did it because it works for me. YMMV!

I start off at a 90° angle but never paid any attention to how my hold moves during the shave but I'm certain that it does. I'll check tomorrow.