Thread: Thumb Pad Test After Stropping

Originally Posted by jaegerhund

Maybe we are trying to be to technical here. I think what's going on is you are pushing your thumb forward but giving a little lateral pressure as to better feel the biting action of the razor. Man that sounds technical too.



Justin

Yes, that's it. No spirals or spins.

Putting "english" into, or onto, something can have many meanings, or interpretations. In billiards it usually refers to some type of backspin or other variance from a straight, dead on, strike forward. So I understand the confusion.

But I think Justin got it correct in his quote above. It's a light forward motion of the thumb with just a "nudge" of lateral pressure. Now I hope the term "nudge" doesn't throw anybody off.

Or here is another way of visualizing it: imagine there is a light coating of dust on the very edge of your razor, and you are trying to lightly sweep it off with your thumb a little at a time, moving a little forward and to the side with each gentle sweep. The thumb moves in tiny increments along the edge.

Does that help? Or am I making it more confusing?

If it's still confusing, then just leave it alone. I'll make a demo video when I get a chance so you can see exactly what was shown to me by the barber.