I actually live in an area where everything seems to be heavily marked up maybe I just stumbled into a few good deals. Almost bought a ladies blue starburst for 25 early in the day but though I could find something cheaper and I did. Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk
As I understand it, those long handled "Lady" razors use the same head pieces as the Flare Tip Super Speed of that year. I like em, own two! Used one to clean up after my shavette the other day.
That's it! Well I did shave last night and it went well all things considered. With the grain was pretty easy though in some places took more than one pass. Across was not comfortable and was quickly halted . Against the grain went just fine as well though maintaining the right angle on my neck was a challenge. I believe I had 2 spots thar wept a tiny bit where I had to repeat but no true nicks and no burn last night or today! Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk
It's not commonly accepted procedure, but I tried something that works for me. When using a DE, injector, or shavette I do my WTG pass first. Generally that's a N to S all over. Here's where I deviate; Second pass I go ATG. That's a S to N pass. Most shavers would have worked in a 'cross the grain (XTG) pass. When using a shavette I can get a E to W and back on my cheeks and chin, not so much below my chin line. If it's a DE or Injector shave, XTG on cheeks doesn't have much to catch. Below my jaw line I do The Gillette Slide. This duplicates or approximates the effect of a Slant razor. While holding the razor at the correct Angle of Attack, the motion is not at 90 degrees, but maybe 60. A scything stroke catches those pesky hairs that grow in swirls on my neck. @mantic provides visual examples of this and other interesting techniques.
Im avoiding the tempation to just buy a VDH kit. Can someone recommend a decent brush or stand and soap brush combo that wont break the bank? Im trying to stay conservative as one Im new and trying not to make the misses to frustrated... just yet I looked at Italian Barber, West Coast shaving and a handful of others but dont want to end up with a junk brush I'd just have to replace. Sent from my SM-G930P using Tapatalk
The VDH kit isn't great, but it will get you started. The brush lasted me more than six months. For an alternative look into Omega boar brushes, or one of the many synthetics now available.The VDH soap is a glycerine based type. Some shavers prefer it to others. I find it to be acceptable, not great or outstanding. The Blue and green shave bowl is nice. One day I suspect they will be our generation's Old Spice Mug. Soaps may be on the shelf at your local stores. Walmart, Walgreens, Target, and Krogers carry different products depending on where you live. You can also order from the Interwebs & have it shipped to your local store. If you have been using canned shave cream or gel, they do work. Take your time and see what is popular, ask the questions, make an informed decision. There are many products that appear in the Shave of the Day thread. Ask folks why they like what they use. Deciding factors about brushes and soaps are YOMV ( You Opinion May Vary). Brushes go from very soft to scratchy, and from less than $10 to car note prices. Soaps can be purchased in sample sized bits, or One Kilo Blocks. As a New Shaver you are highly susceptible to The AD's - Acquisition Disorders. So ask those question & right here in YOUR thread is a good place to have all this info gathered togeather! The other option is buying stuff that looks shiny, but doesn't work for you because you like how it looks, but it doesn't work for you. The good news is some of your future mistakes might be tradeable to someone else, if you can find someone that likes the particular product.
My VDH brush is losing a few hairs, but nothing horrible. Two in the last two shaves, but none in the previous four shaves. I figure I'll get another year (or two) out of it reasonably easily.
My VDH has been in the rotation for 4 years or so. Still does a great job. I see a hair fall out now and then. Then again mine do too now and then.
Welcome to TSD! Your razor is a good one for learning. I'd just stick to it with the Platinum blades for a month. You'll be better able to evaluate your needs, if any, for a different razor then. Good luck and hope you enjoy your vintage razor!
Use Barbasol for learning. It's $2 a can. You need consistent lather for learning, most of the results in this style of shaving are technique driven. You can get as fancy as you see fit with soap, but Barbasol will do just fine.
to TSD @Stu929 Wish I was a child of the eighties I hope you enjoy it here. Your off to a good start with the SS. Getting a 3 piece or two wouldn't be a bad idea either. That way you can try both styles and see if one fits you better than the other. I started with a SuperSpeed but then settled on a 3 piece. There is alot of variety in 3 pieces shave heads and handles.
I have both 3 piece and 80's Superspeed (well, and 40's, and flare, and ...). You can get a good shave from almost anything, but definitely use the one and work with it. @Bama Samurai is right, there's nothing wrong with Barbasol, or other canned foam - especially if you're already used to it. It removes another variable from the learning experience.