Sometimes, good is good enough

For the first time in 20+ years, today I cut myself with
a straight razor. Maybe it was overconfidence, maybe it
was inattention, maybe it was because I was trying to do
too much when I had alot of "other things" on my mind.

I dunno...But here's the truth: I was experimenting with
a "buffing, ATG, guillotine" stroke, in an attempt to get
a "better" BBS shave.

I got the BBS shave alright...except for the cut.

Live and learn....Sometimes good is good enough.

Paul

ps: It's not that bad...a little bleeding, easily
controlled, and there won't be a scar...but it's an
embarrassing reminder to PAY ATTENTION!

Last week I decided to test shave with two straights I have restored and honed recently. I cut my ear with the first blade I tried. Only slightly, but still ...
And this blade was not really shave ready. I felt a little pulling. So this goes back to the hones.

I don't have 20+ years experience with straight shaving. I "just" started a bit more than a year ago. Cuts became rare accidents. But if something distracts me it can happen.
You are right: Just be careful and concentrated!!

This has been discussed before. For many of us who have been shaving with a straight a long time we have our routine and of course feel very comfortable doing it. Go and change things and try a new stroke for instance and often times you feel ham handed like you were starting all over again.

Thank you Paul for your reminder...the blade always deserves respect. I have a couple of nice little reminders this week from experimenting with a new blade...

Yes, it happens to the new and experienced alike. Though it has been a while since I've been cut, I did give myself a good nick under my chin while doing some ATG buffing. Nothing a little post shave cold water and alum block couldn't cure:)

I'm tempted to say that it was the break in your routine that brought on the cut, but of course sometimes the routine itself lets your mind drift and gets you cut.