Thread: 3rd Time is Not a Charm

Howdy, Drifter, and a couple thoughts from me...

On stropping pressure, the blade meets the strop with as much pressure as gravity would cause alone, plus just enough for you to control its movement.

On your shaving travails, your description of the pulling like an overused disposable sounds like a dull blade or whiskers that need a better prep. If the whiskers are well hydrated, they do come off a little easier. I shave with cold water, but immediately after a warm shower. When I dry off, I don't dry my neck or the lower half of my face (and that takes some concentration; it's a break with my lifetime of postshower muscle memory), and keep them moist with reapplications from a washcloth while I partially dress (like to get socks and shorts on, at least, to offer a little protection to the piggies and the dangly bit before I open a razor). If I didn't strop and make lather before getting in the shower, I keep the face moistened while I do those.

I lather the whole thing, start from the collarline and work my way up, do the sideburns and cheeks and jaws, but leave the mustache and chin. Those are the toughest spots, and I like to rinse all my face clean and relather before shaving them. The first lather gives them just a little better soak, and the second lathering ensures I'm working with enough moisture.

For force applied while shaving, if your blade is properly sharp and your beard is properly prepped, the barbs come off like magic when you set your goal as simply swiping away the lather. Very little pressure is all it takes.

Best wishes to you