SOS: September 2018 | Page 40

Smooth Steve · Sep 15, 2018

120inna55 said: ↑

RazoRock | The Dead Sea
Leo Frilot Tru-Stone Copper Matrix | AP Shave Co. SynBad 30mm
Phoenix Shaving | Ascension Double Open Comb (7075 Al)
Gillette 7 o'clock Super Platinum (Black)
Catie's Bubbles | Quatre Cent Vingt EdP

I was a casual fan of the original Phoenix Double Open Comb (DOC). My only complaint is that it was too mild and inefficient for my every-other-day shaving habits. I dramatically improved its efficiency by shimming it. Ultimately, I passed on my original DOC to someone who appreciated it without modification. Later, PAA released a higher-end razor of similar design called the Evolution. I never used the Evolution as I imagined it was simply a heavier version of the original (I've since learned it was a very different razor altogether). The Double Open Comb design was briefly used in a 1940s razor, the "Grand Shave King", and PAA sought out to pay homage to this unique tool. Since PAA revived the obscure design, at least two other vendors have churned out their own double open combs. I've not tried them either.

A few months back, I received a surprise package from PAA. It was a prototype of the Ascension with two base plates. The artisan asked I put the razor and its plates through the paces and provide feedback. What he hadn't noticed is that I'd been exclusively using vintage SEs for well over a year at this point. This may have proven my insight more unique as I was a bit rusty with DEs and had even fallen out of favor with them after my enlightenment of vintage SEs. Nevertheless, I was willing to give it a go. While I liked both iterations, one plate was the true winner, and I think the current release Ascension utilizes that very plate design and geometry. Even with only a few shaves under my belt with the prototype, I was sold. No, I won't be selling off all my vintage SEs and injectors, but there's no disputing the remarkable efficiency of the Ascension.

That's right, I said "efficiency". This is a completely different shave experience from that of the original DOC. My personal definition of shaving efficiency is essentially regarding a razor's ability to remove stubble in relationship to the number of necessary passes. Efficiency is not to be confused with "aggression" which, to me, is more about the blade feel and comfort of the shave. Again, this is all my personal perception of the terms, but "aggression" rightfully has a negative connotation. The opposite of aggression is mild. In my mind, aggression or mildness have nothing to do with efficiency, although they often converge and thus incorrect assessments are made.

I find the Ascension to be very mild and comfortable, but extremely efficient at the same time. In my experience, there are very few DEs that can give me a BBS with only 2 passes. The Ascension does this with ease. It's also quite intuitive with an easily found blade angle even as a head shaver.

While I expect there to eventually be a stainless steel version, the current iteration of the Ascension is anodized 7075 aluminum. As a result, it's quite light, but given the handle is made of the same material, it maintains its balance. There's also a bit of drag associated with this type of finish. I actually like this aspect in that it's similar to stretching your skin during a shave. I anticipate others not liking this aspect, so they will probably prefer a polished finish.

The Ascension is touted as being a "twist adjustable" which essentially exploits the amount of play allowed when tightening down the apparatus. However, with other similar 3-piece razor designs, the shape of the base plate means there's only one true setting which is snug. The Ascension's plate, however, torques the installed blade such that it acts as a spring. This effectively makes this final quarter-turn play into a usable range that fine tunes the blade gap and angle without risk of blade movement, misalignment, or chatter. While I know the artisan will take full credit for this "ingenious" design, I can't say if this was just a happy accident or by-design. Regardless, it is a viable adjustment option for those who feel the need to tweak the angle and gap on a minute level. Personally, I just tighten the handle until the whole apparatus is stable (not over-tightened), then I start shaving. I find no reason to make these little adjustments as the comfort and efficiency are just right for me without thinking about it.

As with all PAA products, aesthetics are always considered. The Ascension is no exception. This is an attractive piece for sure. The base plate has been anodized to a dark grey and includes laser etching. As to the asymmetrical aspect of the head, I can't see how it offers any function other than that of conversation. That's actually not a detraction, but rather right in-line with the embedded storytelling that makes PAA products unique.

I still consider myself to be a staunch vintage SE/injector advocate, but the Ascension Twist-Adjustable Double Open Comb Safety Razor has caused me to drop my moratorium on the use of DEs and actually begin restocking DE blades.
Click to expand...

I can't wait for mine to come in tomorrow. Another great write up Matt. I do believe Doug intended the adjustability factor and I have had a few conversations about this feature starting over a year ago with him. I did not know he was planing adjustability in this specific razor, but he told me that he was exploring this attribute and that the original DOC made him think differently about razor design when I explained that I liked to just keep the original just snug and not torqued tight based on his original suggestions. The original did not bend the blade enough to provide a strong spring action so the range of adjustability is probably much more limited then with the Ascension. I really like this feature on the Eclipse so I am looking forward to this on this new razor. I find the efficiency is improved while keeping the razor from feeling overly aggressive. It just provides a great effective smooth shave.
Steve

Smooth Steve · Sep 15, 2018

09/15/18 Shave of the Day
Face Wash with Disney Resorts H2O+ Sea Salt Facial Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Conditioning Shampoo Puck
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Hybrid CUBE Preshave Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Shaving Soap - Summer Seasonal!
RazoRock 400 Butterscotch 24 x 57mm Synthetic Noir Plissoft Brush
Creative Flame Pottery Stoneware Shaving Scuttle
The New Schick Razor Magazine Repeating Razor Co. Type B2 (1927-1932)
Schick Injector Blade - 6th Shave
RazoRock Alum Block
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Meta Nectar Intergalactic Attar Aftershave / Cologne
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Star Jelly Aftershave - Mentholated - Summer Seasonal!
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Natural Deodorant - Extra Sport Strength

Today was a very rough day. I woke up to get the news that one of my oldest and most valued friends founded back in the 7th grade had passed away. I was in shock since it was totally unexpected. He was on a business trip by himself and probably had a heart attack in his hotel room. When he failed to check out yesterday, they found him on the floor with his heart stopped. They were able to resuscitate him but he was down too long and his body ran out of oxygen. It did not look good and they kept him plugged in long enough for his family to arrive and say good bye one last time. He was not conscious, his heart was weak, kidneys failed, and had many strokes from a swelled brain. He passed this morning and it was very sad. He leaves behind 3 kids and an incredible wife. We live far apart and I hadn't seem him much lately, but it was always like old times when the gang got together. Tomorrow I will reflect on John as I enjoy this shave and recall all the great times we had together. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. Sorry for the downer but he has been on my mind all day.

mrchick · Sep 15, 2018

Smooth Steve said: ↑

09/15/18 Shave of the Day
Face Wash with Disney Resorts H2O+ Sea Salt Facial Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Conditioning Shampoo Puck
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Hybrid CUBE Preshave Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Shaving Soap - Summer Seasonal!
RazoRock 400 Butterscotch 24 x 57mm Synthetic Noir Plissoft Brush
Creative Flame Pottery Stoneware Shaving Scuttle
The New Schick Razor Magazine Repeating Razor Co. Type B2 (1927-1932)
Schick Injector Blade - 6th Shave
RazoRock Alum Block
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Meta Nectar Intergalactic Attar Aftershave / Cologne
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Star Jelly Aftershave - Mentholated - Summer Seasonal!
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Natural Deodorant - Extra Sport Strength

View attachment 174689
Today was a very rough day. I woke up to get the news that one of my oldest and most valued friends founded back in the 7th grade had passed away. I was in shock since it was totally unexpected. He was on a business trip by himself and probably had a heart attack in his hotel room. When he failed to check out yesterday, they found him on the floor with his heart stopped. They were able to resuscitate him but he was down too long and his body ran out of oxygen. It did not look good and they kept him plugged in long enough for his family to arrive and say good bye one last time. He was not conscious, his heart was weak, kidneys failed, and had many strokes from a swelled brain. He passed this morning and it was very sad. He leaves behind 3 kids and an incredible wife. We live far apart and I hadn't seem him much lately, but it was always like old times when the gang got together. Tomorrow I will reflect on John as I enjoy this shave and recall all the great times we had together. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. Sorry for the downer but he has been on my mind all day.
Click to expand...

I am so sorry for your loss Steve. Praying for all involved.

Boru62 · Sep 15, 2018

Pre: Warm water splash
Brush: Anbbas Boar
Soap: Palmolive Stick
Razor: E-R 1912
Blade: Gem Blue Star CS
Post: Cold water rinse, Tuff Red ASL

After yesterday's frugal Friday shave I decided to stay with the vibe, and have a scrimping Saturday shave.
"How was it?", I hear someone ask, I turned my head 180°, no one there, being possessed isn't all that don'tcha know?
Well, the shave was so good I almost.....

..... got out of the rabbit hole.
Happy Shaving one and all.

Str8 Shaver · Sep 15, 2018

Shaves of the past week..

Sunday.
Prep: Hot towel
Pre shave: Prep
Razor: ‘The Rock’ (Rockwell 6S – #3)
Blade: Permasharp
Brush: 'Jade' (Rooney Heritage 2XL Jade)
Soap: Wholly Kaw ‘Monaco Royale’
Post: Cold water rinse / Witch Hazel / Chatillon Lux Santal Auster Post-Shave Salve

I ended up making extra passes just for the fun of it.. nuff said, methinks!

Tuesday.
Prep: Hot towel
Pre shave: Prep
Razor: Weber ARC
Blade: Wizamet Polsilver
Brush: ‘Il Cinghiale’ (Zenith EURO/RX)
Soap: Le Père Lucien: Oud-Santal
Post: Cold water rinse / Witch Hazel / Wholly Kaw: King of Oud Aftershave Toner

another stunning outing with the Weber/Wizamet, although LPL is not a soap that I can push too far, as it can be a little lacking in the protection stakes.. but all's good.

Thursday.
Prep: Hot towel
Pre shave: Prep
Razor: Merkur 34C HD
Blade: Polsilver Super Iridium
Brush: ‘Il Cinghiale’ (Zenith EURO/RX)
Soap: Entre Bulles et Moi: RazzBocket
Post: Cold water rinse / Witch Hazel / Chatillon Lux: Bon Vivant Post Shave Toner

even though there was nothing wrong with the shave, I was just too tired to really enjoy it.. just one o' those days! roll on Saturday..

ilts · Sep 15, 2018

Good Morning Everyone SOTD 09/15/19

'52 Gillette Super Speed
Wilkinson Sword (7)
Erskine 3103 Boar
Pinaud Clubman Shave Soap
Cold Water Rinse, Alum Block
Pinaud Clubman A/S

Have A Great Day!

Jan Zoethout · Sep 15, 2018

SOTD 20180915.

Yaqi model R1605-S.
Meißner Tremonia Lavender De Luxe.
Timeless Ti 0.68 OC / Stork Ti "Taipan" handle.
Rockwell Razors Swedish Stainless Steel (6).
Loris "E-108" EdT.

clint64 · Sep 15, 2018

Smooth Steve said: ↑

09/15/18 Shave of the Day
Face Wash with Disney Resorts H2O+ Sea Salt Facial Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Conditioning Shampoo Puck
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Hybrid CUBE Preshave Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Shaving Soap - Summer Seasonal!
RazoRock 400 Butterscotch 24 x 57mm Synthetic Noir Plissoft Brush
Creative Flame Pottery Stoneware Shaving Scuttle
The New Schick Razor Magazine Repeating Razor Co. Type B2 (1927-1932)
Schick Injector Blade - 6th Shave
RazoRock Alum Block
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Meta Nectar Intergalactic Attar Aftershave / Cologne
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Star Jelly Aftershave - Mentholated - Summer Seasonal!
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Natural Deodorant - Extra Sport Strength

View attachment 174689
Today was a very rough day. I woke up to get the news that one of my oldest and most valued friends founded back in the 7th grade had passed away. I was in shock since it was totally unexpected. He was on a business trip by himself and probably had a heart attack in his hotel room. When he failed to check out yesterday, they found him on the floor with his heart stopped. They were able to resuscitate him but he was down too long and his body ran out of oxygen. It did not look good and they kept him plugged in long enough for his family to arrive and say good bye one last time. He was not conscious, his heart was weak, kidneys failed, and had many strokes from a swelled brain. He passed this morning and it was very sad. He leaves behind 3 kids and an incredible wife. We live far apart and I hadn't seem him much lately, but it was always like old times when the gang got together. Tomorrow I will reflect on John as I enjoy this shave and recall all the great times we had together. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. Sorry for the downer but he has been on my mind all day.
Click to expand...

I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for all involved.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Norcalnewb · Sep 15, 2018

Smooth Steve said: ↑

09/15/18 Shave of the Day
Face Wash with Disney Resorts H2O+ Sea Salt Facial Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Conditioning Shampoo Puck
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Hybrid CUBE Preshave Soap
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Shaving Soap - Summer Seasonal!
RazoRock 400 Butterscotch 24 x 57mm Synthetic Noir Plissoft Brush
Creative Flame Pottery Stoneware Shaving Scuttle
The New Schick Razor Magazine Repeating Razor Co. Type B2 (1927-1932)
Schick Injector Blade - 6th Shave
RazoRock Alum Block
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Meta Nectar Intergalactic Attar Aftershave / Cologne
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Rabid Banana Star Jelly Aftershave - Mentholated - Summer Seasonal!
Phoenix Artisan Accoutrements Dapper Doc Natural Deodorant - Extra Sport Strength

View attachment 174689
Today was a very rough day. I woke up to get the news that one of my oldest and most valued friends founded back in the 7th grade had passed away. I was in shock since it was totally unexpected. He was on a business trip by himself and probably had a heart attack in his hotel room. When he failed to check out yesterday, they found him on the floor with his heart stopped. They were able to resuscitate him but he was down too long and his body ran out of oxygen. It did not look good and they kept him plugged in long enough for his family to arrive and say good bye one last time. He was not conscious, his heart was weak, kidneys failed, and had many strokes from a swelled brain. He passed this morning and it was very sad. He leaves behind 3 kids and an incredible wife. We live far apart and I hadn't seem him much lately, but it was always like old times when the gang got together. Tomorrow I will reflect on John as I enjoy this shave and recall all the great times we had together. My prayers and thoughts are with his family. Sorry for the downer but he has been on my mind all day.
Click to expand...

Sorry for your loss, Steve.

Norcalnewb · Sep 15, 2018

Boru62 said: ↑

Pre: Warm water splash
Brush: Anbbas Boar
Soap: Palmolive Stick
Razor: E-R 1912
Blade: Gem Blue Star CS
Post: Cold water rinse, Tuff Red ASL
View attachment 174697
After yesterday's frugal Friday shave I decided to stay with the vibe, and have a scrimping Saturday shave.
"How was it?", I hear someone ask, I turned my head 180°, no one there, being possessed isn't all that don'tcha know?
Well, the shave was so good I almost.....

..... got out of the rabbit hole.
Happy Shaving one and all.
Click to expand...

Pretty picture!

jluc · Sep 15, 2018

September 15th
Razor: Timeless Bronze SB
Blade: Rapira Swedish Supersteel(2)
Brush: Envy White Supreme 8 Ball
Pre-shave: Stirling Mentholated
Soap: Stirling Dunshire
Stirling mentholated witch hazel
AS: Stirling Dunshire

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

Boru62 · Sep 15, 2018

Norcalnewb said: ↑

Pretty picture!
Click to expand...

.

Jayaruh · Sep 15, 2018

Saturday Straights' Shave

Cold Water Wash
Eureka Shaving Soap
Jayaruh #314
Dbl Duck 5/8
CWR
FD Old Spice AS

My prep was just a cold water rinse. The Eureka Shaving Soap face lathered well with the Jayaruh #314 badger brush. I did two passes with the Dbl Duck 5/8 straight and ended up with a close, comfortable shave. After a cold water rinse, I finished off with FD Old Spice AS. I am clean, smooth, and refreshed...

Bobcat · Sep 15, 2018

Saturday

Prep: Warm Shower-Stirling Scots Pine Sheep
Soap: Henri et Victoria Nautilus
Razor: Gillette Red Tip Super Speed
Blade: Gillette Platinum (3)
Brush: Honey Farm Designs/TGN Premium Silvertip-24mmx50mm
Aftershave: Country Club Classic Fougere

WTG-XTG-ATG (adjusted angles for my beard)

Henri et Victoria Nautilus today. 20 seconds to load the Honey Farm Designs/TGN Premium Silvertip brush. Easy, thick, slick, lather. Gillette Platinum in the Gillette Red Tip Super Speed. Excellent smooth, close, shave. I finished with Country Club Classic Fougere aftershave.

Bob

BaylorGator · Sep 15, 2018

mrchick said: ↑

I am so sorry for your loss Steve. Praying for all involved.
Click to expand...

Norcalnewb said: ↑

Sorry for your loss, Steve.
Click to expand...

+1. Praying for all involved. Hang in there @Smooth Steve.

jluc said: ↑

September 15th
Razor: Timeless Bronze SB
Blade: Rapira Swedish Supersteel(2)
Brush: Envy White Supreme 8 Ball
Pre-shave: Stirling Mentholated
Soap: Stirling Dunshire
Stirling mentholated witch hazel
AS: Stirling Dunshire

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk
Click to expand...

Great looking setup and pic @jluc!

jluc · Sep 15, 2018

BaylorGator said: ↑

+1. Praying for all involved. Hang in there @Smooth Steve.

Great looking setup and pic @jluc!
Click to expand...

Thanks, Randy!

Sent from my SM-G965U using Tapatalk

Str8on2 · Sep 15, 2018

SEptember 15, 2018

Sabre L2 & GEM SS ptfe #1
RR BC 24mm Plissoft
GD Basique
Thayers Peach WH Astringent
Nivea Sensitive A/S lotion
Azzaro Chrome United edt

A good shave this morning.......
Have a great day and wonderful shaves Gents...

shaveman · Sep 15, 2018

Paradigm 2 Titanium Razor
Israeli Personna Blade
Nivea Foaming Shave Cream
Nivea Men Creme Balm
Blue Aqua Velva

Timwcic · Sep 15, 2018

Romo 30
Vintage butterscotch Rooney reknoted 28/52
Yardley shaving soap
Chanel Aftershave

Nicked · Sep 15, 2018

Douglas Carey said: ↑

Razor: Alumigoose w/Hempel Ti
Blade: Feather Pro
Brush: El Druida Red Heart Chakte Kok/African Blackwood 2 Band
Soap: Hendrix Classic Barbershop
A/S: Fine American Blend
Bowl: Timeless

Excellent 2 passes with a touch up. The Hendrix soap whipped up a good lather very easily.
View attachment 174602
Click to expand...

Digging this stick Sir, looking into one myself now.