First shave with the Dovo Special

I originally posted this in the "Introduction" forum but thought this may be the more appropriate place to get an answer.

I picked up a like new Dovo Special 5/8 which is beautiful in my eyes anyway (proud new parent). Anxious to use it, I found reference to a cutlery shop here in Plano that supposedly hones razors so I took it in yesterday. An hour and $10 dollars later I rushed home to have my maiden SR shave.

First I'll admit that my first SR shave was much more of a fine motor skill challenge than I thought it was going to be. I was convinced after watching countless videos that this would be a breeze. I was humbled, especially trying to use my left hand which I abandoned quickly (for my first shave anyway). I didn't nick myself, but I was surprised at the pulling and discomfort I had.

This is where I don't know what to attribute to form and what to attribute to the edge of the razor. Good beard prep is not new to me so I can comfortably rule that out. The razor could not pass the HHT test but it could shave my arm. My knife does that though and I wouldn't attempt to shave with it. I really want to think that the razor wasn't really shave ready. I was so ready for this razor to "mow down" my growth like I see in videos but in reality I couldn't even get it to go through my chin whiskers.

I do plan on doing my own honing eventually, but I feel like I need to have a standard to begin with. I am familiar with the big honemeisters on the forums, but would really like to get a good hone here locally if possible. Any recommendations in the Dallas area?

Thanks again for the site.

Drew

Hard to say because of so many factors..The person that honed the razor said it was shave ready now? So many people who say this might not do straights properly and think it was..
Allot of factors here to try and pin point a Problem..
Send the razor to one of the members here and you will know what shave ready means

I'm sceptical that the razor is properly honed. I've read a few experiences on this board about cutlery shops that supposedly hone razors.

That being said it might be worth trying to shave your cheeks and stropping after for a few days. If its not getting better then get it honed.

If you can't fined anyone local then look under member services in classifieds for a pro to do it.

If money is tight and you want a non pro to take a look at it I'd be happy to do that free if you send it my way.

Michael

Drew, do you have any idea what methods/stones were used to sharpen your Dovo at the Plano shop? Check out our members services with our classifieds location. It really sounds to me like a combo of nervousness and not have a good edge. Don't worry about the left hand. Continue trying your left hand just for a very small area on your cheek each time
you straight shave and as you become comfortable and more confident you will be surprised how quickly you become more
and more accomplished. It is not a race. Always take plenty of time and slowly progress into those areas of your face
were you are the least comfortable. Enjoy and get your razor off to one of our great craftsman for honing.

Local Help - Straight Razor Place Wiki

There is where to start, but I am pretty sure there are a couple more guys in your area, check the "Get Together" forum and see if there wasn't a Dallas area meet in the last couple of years too that will have quite a few leads...

In most people's experience taking a razor to a "Shop" has ended badly, but if you do the first question to ask is simple "Do you personally shave with a Staraight Razor" ???? if they can look you in the eye and say yes and most likely launch into a conversation then just take your razor and leave..

Thanks for the great info on the Wiki GS. I'll check that out.

LZ: the shop was a little busy when I picked up the razor. I did ask what he finished the razor on and he said a 10k wet stone and stropping. Don't have much other than that on what he did.

I suppose if I had an ounce of patience, I'd have sent this out to one of the pros on this board and we wouldn't be having this converstion. I'd know exactly that I have a lot of work to do.

Sad thing is I'm addicted not only to razors and shaving but reading about razors and shaving. So this just gives me fuel for the fire.

Pitiful...

You're real close to fellow SRP member LarryAndro (of WhippedDog Straight Razor Sales) in Arlington--he's a great guy, very approachable, focused on helping new guys get off to a good start, hones great. You should shoot him a PM!

My first shave was terrible too. Well, it did not meet my expectations. On the other hand, I was glad I did not cut myself. 8 months later I am just getting the razor to cut my chin fairly well. Actually, last night was the best shave I have had so far. Anyway, I hope the shaves get better. I am not trying to be condescending either. I can understand the frustration, having been there myself. If your first shave does not go well there are so many variables to eliminate. Using a straight razor is fun, just frustrating at times.