Thread: First shave no regrets

Good evening to you all

This is a sort of report of my first shave using a true straight razor.
In my mid fifties I should confess I always see the act of shaving as a necessity like a part of daily hygiene but as I got my razors and start to search about this activity I have been changed my thoughts.
A little background, I have owned for a few years now a chinese straight razor style that I use randomly just to experience the ritual of this ancient form of art, but I was so lucky to find a couple of used vintage razors and an adjustable stroper in nice conditions so I decided to go for the full thing.
At the very moment I subscribed to this forum I start to be aware of how far I was of a good shave, a few members already step forward offering me not just help but some basic to shave my self properly but this will take some time and since I already shaved my self this way (well sort of) I just could not wait to try my new to me Bambola 205, she original belongs to an old barber who already past away an I bought from his son who keep it in a good way since them, she was dirty and has some superficial rust, after hear a no restore suggestion from some fellow members I did a good clean and polish and she came to life again.
The temptation was so much I could not resist give her a try, I performed and edge inspection and did some sharpening test (TNT and HHT) the edge was dull but still capable to shave my self with the consequences of that so I said to my self it could not be worst that a fast shaving in the woods with a cheap disposable multi razor during a few days motorcycle trip.
Due to my previous experiences I had not fear of the blade so I start with some degree of confidence and short strokes at upper cheek area (I am in the process of beard growing up) , my first impression was "I have had more tugging from some safe blade", the zone around Adan apple was a much more tricky but I manage my self not to committed suicide a second pass was needed but this time the blade runs faster and I was more loose too.
Final words I knew I was not doing things the proper way but man I enjoy my time doing it hahaha, at the end I will regret things I did not do.
A shave ready blade, a hone stone, a real strop, beard soap, a new brush and some aftershave treatment are on the way, in the meanwhile more research and learning in this great community.

Sounds like you are well on your way.

You have a great attitude and a charming sense of humour. You will fit in well here.

Keep us posted on your progress. We are here to help and enable.

Enjoying the shave is what it is all about!

I remember my first straight shave. It was an ordeal and trial by fire. I was actually glad when it was over and so was my face.

Guys thanks for the support .
My search for local honing help are getting some good news, I asked my wife hair dresser about honing services in town and he told me he has some straight razors that he used in his past life as a barber since in the old times you have to be a barber before you can get your hands over a lady's hair.
He also still have his barber stone and offer me hone my razors and teach me during the process, can not wait that happen, till then keep on reading, searching and asking.

Congrats on your first shave.

Once I turned the corner, I never went back. From time to time I will use a DE when traveling. But once you get in the habit, you will wish you had used a straight razor your whole life.

Yup....the first 100 shaves took so long....the lather on the other side of my face dried up...took almost 3 months to do the up stroke on my throat ( was a scared ) ....heck ,I even have a straight and strop in my camper !!

Congrats...it's a great feeling and the beginning of a fun journey!

Originally Posted by BrianP

Congrats...it's a great feeling and the beginning of a fun journey!

Just enjoy the time!