Thread: Which hand?

Originally Posted by BlacknTan

I consider myself to be very right hand dominant.
I just finished my fourth shave with a straight razor... a 5/8 Genco Master Barber with a square point.
Shave #1 was great as was #2. Took a nick on shave three, and three nicks today. All on the left side from forcing myself to use my left hand.
I have trouble making my left hand go the way I want it to go while looking in the mirror. I know my right brain will learn, and muscle memory will help, but, here's my question.
Should I be concentrating on applying the same strokes with my right hand to my left? I can do nice curved cuts and get into problem areas easily with my right... Should I try to do the same with my left until I learn, or do some folks just cheat..

I've watched some video clips, but i wonder if anyone could point me to more...

I figure I might as well learn properly the first time!

But, I've been getting great shaves already. As close, or in some areas closer than my best with a DE.

Thanks for the help.

P.S. I do practice a bit with a dull razor in the mirror..

Did you come across this video on Chimensch's 30th Anniversary Shaving Video?

(http://straightrazorpalace.com/shaving-straight-razor/50228-chimenschs-30th-anniversary-shaving-video.html)


He makes it looks like a breeze...it's a bit challenging at first, but doable...you will eventually establish what's comfortable for you. But, keep at it with your left hand and don't give up. Force it to do work outside the box...the memory kicks in sooner than you think.

Come to think of it...You want to reduce the slope of the learning curve for your left hand, do what I do (which, BTW is working wonders for me): Use your left hand to lather up your face with the brush...for me, that was one of the most uncomfortable things to do...especially, the rotating motion of the brush. Try it, it really pushes the boundaries of the comfort zone for your left hand.


Cheers,
-Robert