Thread: Am I doing something wrong?

Well, here's the problem. I have been straight razor shaving for about a year now. I usually do WTG and across, rarely against. Well today I had a wild hair and decided to go against the grain after I had gone WTG. Well the blade wanted to skip around on my neck. So I thought it was the razor since I had just honed it up and all. This baffled me as the razor had pass the arm hair test I always do and never have problems. So I grabbed a different razor, more skipping. So I am convinced that is my technique, just not sure how or how to fix other than keep trying (which I will). Any suggestions? I have made sure to use light pressure, watch the angle (as best I can, it feels akward), etc. Thanks for the help in advance.

Have you been stretching the skin?

Yes I have. I have tried pulling down at the base of the neck and from the top around the chin and jaw.

Shaving ATG or XTG is harder than WTG and requires a slightly different technique. Watch the pressure (keep it very light), stretch, and try a lower angle. ATG and XTG are definitely more difficult.

I agree with holli4pirating and to add to his post, try slow and short strokes.

Can you describe how you are holding the razor for XTG and ATG? This may be a factor, it's worth considering. Just trying to help.
Are you holding the razor the same way in this picture? http://straightrazorpalace.com/srpwi...le:Grip_10.JPG

I too agree with holli. My neck hairs, although they are few, grow at a very acute angle with respect to the skin. ATG on them requires a very acute angle of my blade. The spine probably isn't one spine's width off my neck.

Are you having any problem with ATG on your face?

Thanks to all. Sorry for the late post, blame that one on Irene! Anyway, I have finally got it sorted out. What worked, besides the light to no pressure, etc, was what LinacMan said. I get the best results when at a very acute angle with the blade. And just like LinacMan said, it is barely if even, a spines width off my neck.

Thanks again to all for your help.

I'm glad to have been of assistance. I hope your shaves keep getting better & better.
Greg