Thread: Round or Square

Originally Posted by Magpie

I make it simple.

I shave shave shave with my round point.

And then I clean up under my nose with the square point.

If you are going to have all these razor, and not use them, whats the...

I guess my answer is that I use straight razors mainly because it's fun. But gashing my face is not fun. So what's the point of running the risk of a very un-fun thing? I do have some spike points, bought before I realized this. Some I'm grinding round--it doesn't take much work at all.

But if you're having fun and getting great shaves, more power to you!

Originally Posted by bignickj69

I'm going to go for this one right here:

Bengall – $40 « Holli4's Straight Razor Page

I'm also having Dylan clean up the Dovo I have, I figured it'd be easiest to just grab a razor from him too. I know nothing about names or any of that, but I have gleaned from this site that pretty much any brand razor can be used to shave (obviously people think there are exceptions, no need to argue with the newbie though haha). It seems to me the order of what really matters is the quality of the edge on the blade, the craftsmanship of the blade, and then from there the type of metal used then just a bunch of personal preference stuff. I figured id go basic, cheap, and from a reputable guy on SRP. I'm still in college, so cant really drop multiple hundreds on razors. Maybe I'll get a fancy one for my birthday in a few weeks though

Whatever the pros and cons of spike points, you are going to be happy with both these razors. The man can hone. I'm enjoying a Boker Baby fresh from Dylan's hones and it is excellent. You are going to be a happy camper.

just watch that spikey point!

Originally Posted by nun2sharp

The great thing about a square point is it will force you to "get in the game" as far as watching your technique goes, the big thing about the square point is that you had better know where that point is at all times, should you forget it will remind you!

That is a fact. I posted in another thread that I like to rotate my razors for the same reason. You don't get used to them so each shave feels like the first time and you have to pay attention.

Originally Posted by LawsonStone

And I promise: about the time you think your technique is together, you'll slice an ear-lobe! Overconfidence about technique is what gets us in trouble in the first place.

Good point, LS. I was just shaving a couple of hours ago, kind of grinning at my smooth technique-"I hardly ever get cut anymore." Then opened up two good slices, one on each side, just to keep me humble.

I have and use both round and square as well as spike point razors in my shaving rotation. The latter do require more care or attention to their use, but I find that they can get to hard to get at places on your face (ie. close to the ear or lip) that results in a better shave.

Just be careful...Don't lead with the toe of the blade on your face and you should be just fine.

I have a spike point C-Mon and had a pro hone it for me to begin. The spike was like a needle. It was a lasar beam on the end of the razor after he set the bevel and honed the razor.

I wrote on here asking the best way to tame the beast. I didn't want to ruin the lines of the razor, but that needle was getting to me.

Long story short. I didn't need to "round" it off, I just took some of the edge off on my barbers hone.

My point? If you get a spike, you can always work with it pretty easily to make it to your liking. I actually prefer it to a round point. It's something extra to look out for and it's a little extra control too.

I'm still just barely past the amateur stage myself. I started in December 09 and haven't looked back. Like you, I started with the DOVO Best Quality 5/8" and it served me well. I picked up a round point Fox razor and a spike point no brand name Sheffield steel razor at a local antique store. I sent them to the proffessionals for honing and went to work. I've been rotating all three every since.

At first, I didn't care for the spike point and didn't seem to get as close of a shave. A lot of that was being a newbie. Now, the spike is my favorite razor of the three. It is an extra hollow ground which may have something to do with it. I'm no expert, but I will say that I sliced myself pretty good with the DOVO but I have yet to cut myself beyond a minor nick with the spike point. I think you will do fine.

I just bought a Shumate Peacemaker razor at an antique store which also has a square point. I sent it to Lynn for honing and can't wait to get it back.

Good luck to you and let us know how you like it after you use it.

Originally Posted by LawsonStone

I'm just making the point that you only have to make one, single, isolated mistake to have an inch or more of jagged slash on your face. Are any of us sure that we will not make one single mistake?

This can be said of shaving with any straight. One of the worst cuts I've ever gotten was with my Dovo Perlex, a very rounded razor. Somehow, I simply sliced off a layer of my cheek as one would peel an apple. I don't know how, but I did it. I have minimized the risk with my square points however, by dulling the points.

Originally Posted by bignickj69

I'm going to go for this one right here:

Bengall – $40 « Holli4's Straight Razor Page

I'm also having Dylan clean up the Dovo I have, I figured it'd be easiest to just grab a razor from him too. I know nothing about names or any of that, but I have gleaned from this site that pretty much any brand razor can be used to shave (obviously people think there are exceptions, no need to argue with the newbie though haha). It seems to me the order of what really matters is the quality of the edge on the blade, the craftsmanship of the blade, and then from there the type of metal used then just a bunch of personal preference stuff. I figured id go basic, cheap, and from a reputable guy on SRP. I'm still in college, so cant really drop multiple hundreds on razors. Maybe I'll get a fancy one for my birthday in a few weeks though

i think you you find the change refreshing. I Like to switch it up from time ot time. If I want a shave that gets every nook and cranny, I reach for my spikes...If I want to relax and take it easy, I go for the round tips...They don't dig in as much.. A spike makes me feel like I am ready for anything coming my way...It's a weird perspective.....But it's mine

I normally will recommend either a round point or a square point for new guys simply because they are learning the cutting angles and less likely to get nicked. Spikes are nice, but I think that personal preference will always play a part in our decisions. The one thing I will say that is not mentioned much is to watch for the length of the blades. Most straight razor blades are 3 inches long and pretty controllable. There are those out there like some of the Sheffields and DD's that are around 3 1/2 inches long and when you get one in a spike, not only does the spike throw you, but the length does too, especially when shave across the grain. the tendency is to lean the spike into the face and it is pretty easy to get a small gash. How do I know this......not tellin'

After you really get comfortable with shaving, you will find that you can deal with virtually any shape and size of blade.

Have fun,

Lynn