August 30 Day Rule/Focus Pic & Discussion Thread

I guess it's really Rapira SSS and not SS

 

Yeah those two are a bit confusing at times. I usually call the SSS a Russian Swede just to keep myself clear. It is a better blade than the other in my opinion.

 

The Russians and the SS have had issues in the past...Swedes are a bit friendlier.

 

Hi,
Just joined the forum and thought I'd sign up for this.

I bought a Kai Excelia non folding a few monthe ago which isn't getting the attention it deserves.

So it's loaded with Feather Proguard ready for my first shave.

Blades may change depending on how I get on. Soaps and brushes will change (probably).

 

Razor: Merkur 34 C
Blade: Merkur Super (7)
Brush: WDC-4, Silvertip Badger, Butterscotch. (VIG) 24/67
Cream: C.O. Bigelow 1838
Bowl: Sarah Welch Pottery
A/S: Fine American Blend
Day 2

Second cream day. Yesterday I had a little to much cream, today not enough. Back to the drawing board. DFS anyway.
Have a great Sunday evening.

 

Welcome. Looking forward to following your progress this month.

 

Wellllllll....in some cases yes....but.....would you consider a blade? It's definitely not a to use. Feels more like a clawing at your face!!

I think I've found a new way to send ransom notes! Yes!!

 

My August focus is a little simpler than some of the admirable endeavors listed above. My idea is to test whether my technique has improved as much as I think it has. What I mean by this is that I feel I'm getting consistently nicer shaves regardless of the razor I choose. In using a razor that I don't use very often I'm putting this to the test a bit. Yes, an Executive is a "fancied up" Fat Boy, but using the single razor also relieves from choosing. The soap and brush may change, but the razor and blade brand will not.

 

An interesting side-note, then I'm going to quickly shut my mouth because I know what happens in some of these CT matters.......when I was a Freshman in college the Disco we frequented was called Shenanigan's. It was in Lawrence, KS and was the hotspot on weekends for putting on our high heels, leisure suits with popped floral collars, gold chains (or turquoise choker in my case), spraying the hair firmly into place and boogying the night away impressing (nauseating) the hot girls. Yeah, the good old days. Actually the funniest part of that memory is spraying the hair firmly into place. No need for THAT anymore.

 

Welcome aboard! There are several of us who have used the Feather Artists Club and/ or the CJB handle in previous focus months. @NCoxSTL , @wristwatchb , @Keithmax off the top of my head. I will be interested to hear what you think of the KAI one, since I prefer their blades.

 

Let me go get a broom!

 

I agree with that sentiment! I have looked at the Kai razors but haven't tried them. Their blades, though, seem to me a better choice than Feather. That's probably a personal preference, however, as I find the Kai blades more forgiving. I also prefer Kai over Feather in DE blades as well. Super sharp like a Feather but not as harsh.

 

Welcome aboard!

 

Just remember vodka can be used as a lubricant to speed up the process. The judicious gift of a bottle or two could knock a few weeks off your waiting period. (Please do not give vodka to the mule. We lose more transportation that way)

 

I was unaware they had video surveillance back then. Embarassing.

 

Thank you! First shave was an easy BBS.

 

August 3 Monday, shave 3
After yesterday's debacle with the Xpec I went with a sure thing today, super lather with AoS Tallow and Castle Forbes. Remembering my focus this month I focused on reducing my pressure. Three passes with the SR and a few touch ups. No DE since I have a big date tonight and will do an evening shave with a DE. Very light irritation so I am happy but just SAS so still a little disappointed.

Homemade Pre Shave
AoS tallow + Castle Forbes lavender
Simpson Tulip 3 super
Dovo Bismark 2
Dry Gulch bench strop (horse)
Alum block to keep my fingers dry
Speick AS
Castle Forbes lavender ASB
Tom Ford Lavender Palm

 

Yep I have a Feather and and CJB, they are both in the penalty box until I can improve with straights. @Colonel_K I will be watching your progress. I never tried the Kai but I find shavettes the most challenging razors to use. Glad to have you on board for the 30 day focus.

 

I second that. Absolutely gorgeous. I'm green with envy.

 

If you include a small container of caviar we can expedite approval in only 3 days. Once the mule is awake anyway.