Thread: Did I mess up my edge?

I used a straight razor for the first time yesterday. The experience was not what I expected (Lynn makes it look too easy). Anyway, I'm pretty sure my stroping technique was profoundly flawed. When I shaved, the razor moved very awkwardly across my face and did not shave very closely (except where it cut my face). I'm fairly certain that the feel of the razor against my face and the resultant lack of smoothness was due to this being my first experience wih this tool. I guess I'm just looking for a little reassurance that I didn't ruin Lynn's handiwork by stroping incorrectly. If I did, I'd sure like some advice on what to do next. Thanks again for your help.

Try stropping again with little pressure. Then just try shaving from the sideburn to the jaw on one side until you get used to the feel of the razor. If it doesn't get better you can always send it back and I'll rehone it for you.

Lynn

Thank you, Lynn.

if you were not new i would suggest giving it up and sending me your str8 in hate. i would even pay for shipping.

however i doubt you did anything to it to warrant such action. wait till you drop it 2 inches and take a chip out. then you will hate life.

vgod

Incorrect stropping can dull the edge of a perfectly honed razor so that it needs to be re-honed. But the usual reason why your first attempt at a straight shave will fail is that you haven't done it before. Keep practising.

When I started I curled the edge with my stropping. Had it honed up, and was good as new. It may not come easy, practice is the key.