Mea culpa...reconsidering DE razors

Discussion in 'Straight Razors' started by Jim O, Jun 18, 2023.

  1. Jim O

    Jim O Well-Known Member

    When I get into a new hobby or interest, I tend to form opinions early on, only to backslide later.

    When I used my 34c for the first few times, as my first safety razor, my technique stunk. So, I blamed it on the razor when I butchered up my face. I then switched to my E3, which was an improvement since I had a bit more experience under my belt. I was sure it was the razor, though. Then, with some trepidation, I used my Gem Damaskeene. Better, yet! Now I was sure that SE razors were better, at least for me.

    Today, I finally used my Gillette NEW. Best shave, yet! Now I'm screwed. I like everything. The potential for buying more razors has increased exponentially.
    Even my taste in aftershaves and soaps has changed, but I digress...

    Now I need to find Shavers Anonymous to keep me off eBay. Tomorrow after the gym, I'm hitting the antique shops in my home town. Wish me luck you enablers!:)
     
    Last edited: Jun 18, 2023
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  2. macaronus

    macaronus Sir Nice-a-Lot

    And another one falls victim to RAD. Good hunting!
     
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  3. wristwatchb

    wristwatchb wristwatch "danger" b

    Technique trumps tools. Highly recommend a 30 Day Rule to improve/solidify technique. You can start anytime. There's a new thread every month. In doing so, you'll eventually be able to get great shaves using any setup.

    It took me a few months to develop consistent technique. It improved dramatically once I committed to using a shavette for several months. Pain is a wonderful motivator. :)

    No need to stop acquiring stuff if you want to collect; however with solid technique, you won't feel compelled to search for the perfect razor/brush/blade/soap or cream anymore.

    Just my 2 cents. Have fun!
     
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  4. PLANofMAN

    PLANofMAN Eccentric Razor Collector Staff Member

    Moderator Article Team
    I've found that I can get a good shave with just about any razor, whether it's a $1 razor or a $400 one. It really is all about technique.
     
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  5. swarden43

    swarden43 "It's your shave. Enjoy it your way."©

    Which is why I tell people - if you try a product and don't like it right off, set it aside for 4-6 months, then come back to it and see what you think.
     
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  6. Jim O

    Jim O Well-Known Member

    When I was in to vintage guitars and amps. they had a "mojo" about them that a new guitar or amp simply didn't have. Vintage "knockoffs" were okay, but they weren't the "real deal", and all the old school guitarists knew it. When a guitar player brought his new, expensive vintage tweed amp knockoff to a jam, guys would admire it...until some dude brought in his '59 Fender tweed Deluxe. No one was looking at the knockoff anymore.

    I like to think that vintage razors have a bit of "mojo", too.
     
    Last edited: Jun 19, 2023
  7. brit

    brit in a box

    yes sir,they do.there is no replacement for a 1939 aristocrat,no mater how it shaves..
    [​IMG]
    screams England, just as the war broke out..;):eatdrink047:
     
  8. Herm2502

    Herm2502 off to elf practice

    You've started what many of has. You've started a rotation. Mine currently has 80 razors. Look what you've done!

    Sent from my SM-G991U using Tapatalk
     
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  9. DaltonGang

    DaltonGang Ol' Itchy Whiskers


    Beautiful razor. I've a few British Gillettes in my collection. Love them.
     
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  10. brit

    brit in a box

    thank you so much.i am glad to be it's present caretaker.:):eatdrink047:i believe it was the last OC model produced before the war broke out.
     
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  11. DaltonGang

    DaltonGang Ol' Itchy Whiskers

    Aristocrat #14. Late 30's.

    ..
     
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  12. PLANofMAN

    PLANofMAN Eccentric Razor Collector Staff Member

    Moderator Article Team
    No. 15, and yep.
    Mine is the original 1936 model. It doesn't have that 'forever new' look the rhodiums do, but heavy silver plate has it's own look and vibe.
     
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  13. brit

    brit in a box

    very nice.:):eatdrink047:
     
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