Thread: Questions about sharpness.

Originally Posted by prrfan

I also have a Feather disposable straight and can tell you that the blades are very sharp. The other regular straight razors I have are not as sharp and all have been honed professionally.
I agree with the post above that the first shave with the Feather blade is very unforgiving.
I'm curious as to peoples opinions on whether or not a machine made disposable blade can be as sharp as a regular straight razor blade?

To answer this question, yes, a well honed straight is as sharp as a feather or DE blade. Frankly, I get better shaves with my straights than I do with my DE...!

The reason feather blades feel so sharp is that the makers coat them in teflon to reduce friction. This gives them that "super-sharp" feeling that the OP describes. They're not any sharper, they just have less resistance when cutting, which makes them feel sharper.

There is a tendancy for people to compare straight razors to feather or DE blades like this, and decide that the razor needs honing as its not as "sharp", when in fact the razor is ready to go.

Prep and technique are more important with a straight because you dont have the teflon on the blade adding extra glide and masking the imperfections in your shaving technique. You need good lather, a well softened beard, the right angles and skin stretching to get the best shave.

Stropping is also a key consideration, and you really need to get this right or else you shave will suffer. And so too will your face..!

Good luck!