How many passes to BBS?

[mbrossar]

My definition of a pass is commensurate with the barber's definition: One lather and one or more strokes across each area until the whole face is shaved. For me, this is generally one stroke across each patch although most strokes overlap a bit, some spots it's clearly two and sometimes even three. Usually no more than three strokes on any one spot between latherings.

Considering mileage variance, it sounds like it’s within the realm of possibilities to achieve my definition of BBS/DFS+ with two passes provided my various techniques (honing, stropping, prep, lathering and shaving) are performed well.

Thanks for your input.

[Sirshavesalot]

I can achieve a bbs in 2 good passes, WTG then ATG/XTG pass, but like someone else had said "with a perfect razor" now not all of my razors are in perfect condition, some are a work in progress. I do have some really outstanding ones though.

I find an equitable 2 WTG pass can give you a nearly bbs pass with a great razor.

Cheers
David

[thebigspendur]

It all depends on your beard type and the geography of your face really. I usually do two passes for BBS on my face. The neck is another story. With some razors the same two passes will do it and with others BBS just doesn't happen.

[SRC]

Shaving is so subjective that there is no "one" way that works for everyone. The term "different strokes for different folks" is especially true when it comes to shaving because there are so many variables that what works for one person, may not work for another.

When I shave a customer I define a pass as lathering and then shaving. If I have to re-lather and shave again I then consider that as a 2nd pass. During each pass I take several short strokes in a scything motion, rinse the blade and I can usually achieve BBS within those 2-3 strokes. I take short strokes because long strokes build up too much lather on the blade and I can't see where the tip of my blade is. When I am done I run my thumb ATG to detect any stubble and if I need a 2nd pass then I re-lather and shave that area again.

Keep practicing and in time you will figure out what works best for you. Patience is a virtue when it comes to learning face shaving.

[ducaati]

There is a skill curve to this- when I started, I could not get BBS no matter how many times I tried. Now, over a year into it, I can get most areas first time. As a relevant plug, I have used only DMT synthetic diamond hones (8EE)a simple Col Conk leather/linen strop, with a variety of soaps in the achievement of this. Thread hijack concluded.

[AlanII]

It all depends on your beard type and the geography of your face really. I usually do two passes for BBS on my face. The neck is another story. With some razors the same two passes will do it and with others BBS just doesn't happen.

This is more or less my experience. Obie is right IMO, concentrate on technique/prep and BBS will come and, having gone the cold water route for the last three days, that seems to help me too. In general I prefer Lynn's description, 'sticky smooth' but I guess it could just be a different way of saying the same thing.