Just a hello to the forums from a newbie in here. At the tender age of 53, I've finally gone the DE route a month ago and have to say so far I am enjoying the experience. Aside from the lower blade outlay I am staggered by the lack of nicks, cuts and skin burn which tbh just put me off the whole shaving thing. Cue the change to a DE and all the above have gone and I actually now get up a little earlier just to enjoy a shave at the start of the day. As people seems to like knowing I bought two razors for "normal" use and a travel (ok, I got attracted to shiny things ). Merkur Futur Muhle R41 head plus Ikon OSS handle Merkur 33C as a travel razor. Brush is silvertip and shaving Cream from Taylor of Old Bond Street. Did a lot of reading before buying anything plus watched many a vid on technique. Sad really at my age but I've learned that if I don't know it sure helps to learn from them that do. Started easy with the Futur on 1 only going with the grain and gradually brought in extra passes. Have reached a comfort and awesome shave point with three passes set on 3 for the cheeks and 1.5-2 for complicated bits. Not one cut nor rash with this razor. The R41 has had a couple of outings and if I'm honest feels about like the Futur on 3 setting. Still learning this razor but loving it The Merkur likewise has had a couple of outings, its milder but excellent and will do the travel job well. Bit much for an intro but can't help it as just enjoying the whole DE thing atm as I can shave daily and not get a bloody and red patchy face
Welcome @KenH! Glad you joined us here at TSD. Sounds like you are doing it the right way. Spending time learning and developing your technique pays off later when you try other gear. There's a group that does just this - The 30 Day Rule / Focus crew are a bunch of New shavers learning vintage gear, and Vintage shavers trying out new gear. If you find you have questions drop by! Read the first post for the explanation of how we operate, or jump to the end of the thread and ask questions. Beware - there may be Shenanigans. Take a moment to visit The Newbie Giveaway and sign up for your chance at some internet spending credits. Read the rules to be sure you qualify. By the way, I like your Merkur Futur razor! So much that I picked up a clone - A Ming Shi 2000S. I took a month to Focus on it & I can get great error free shaves on setting 4.5. Very nice tool.
Hmm. 53, husband,father, enjoy lifting heavy things, cycling, martial arts. Recent convert to DE razors and the rituals that come with them. Love food wine and good times and time out doors. Kinda covers the basics