I recently acquired two straight razors and am starting to learn straight razor shaving. I purchased a 5/8 Wolstenholm pipe from the classifieds here on SRP, and a 4/8 Melchior from Larry at Whipped Dog Straights. Both razors came listed as shave ready, and following advice I read here on SRP, I did not strop prior to my first shave. The razor felt grabby and rough, no nicks but a fair amount of razor burn. This was WTG on cheeks only. Second and third shave, I stropped the razor well prior to shaving, and there was a vast difference in the perceived smoothness of the process. I managed a WTG and ATG pass on both cheeks and chin and was able to get a fairly nice shave with just one small spot of burn. I am assuming that my improved result is because of better technique, and not because of the stropping. I pretty much have to shave with my right hand only, as I have a pretty mangled left index finger that limits control and fine manipulation with that hand. I definitely find the 5/8 Wolsty easier to work with, the Melchior feels "twitchy" and gives me a sense of impending body part removal :chop: I think I will set that razor aside for the time when I have developed more skill. My pre-shave is pretty basic...hot shower and face wash , a hot cloth for 1 minute or so and Dirty Girl Hunka Honey Shaving Soap applied with a boar brush. Post shave , I use witch hazel with a few drops of spearmint oil added.
