November 27, 2018- NOthing But Techs
Razor: M1 (1Q67) Travel Tech
Blade: 7 o'Clock Permasharp Stainless (3)
Brush: Razorock Plissoft 22
Soap: Stirling Sheep
Post: Alum, Listerine, WH
With only three Techs left, it was time to face my fears and go with the other shave that I've been somewhat dreading this month- my first ever shave with a "Travel Tech". You know, a regular Tech head on virtually the shortest possible handle.
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The Travel Tech is an interesting artifact of the time when a razor was still considered a Durable Good. These sets consisted of a Tech head, short handle, and a pack of 1-3 blades all housed in a vinyl or leather folding case or a metal case which, in some cases, included a small mirror in the lid. They were sold alongside of other travel-sized good or in gift shops. In the latter case, the pouch or case might be emblazoned with the name or image of a tourist destination. The latter seem to be the more coveted versions due to their broader collectability.
I purchased this one because it was inexpensive and I figured that I should have one in my collection. As you may note, the blades are of current manufacture; the set did not include usable blades and I felt that the 3-pack of PP blades would best fit in the pouch.
So, why have I been dreading this shave? Frankly, it was because of the short handle. My personal preference is something around the length of a classic Tech handle and I really wasn't sure how easy it would be to shave with this much shorter handle. In reality, it was pretty much a no-brainer other than feeling slightly silly at first. (I kept having images of that scene in "North By Northwest" where Cary Grant is shaving with the tiny razor.) I normally choke up on my razor, so there was no issue with the grip; mostly, I just missed the feel of the butt of the handle against my palm. No problems with keeping a light touch or finding the right angle.
The end result was a very close and smooth shave with no issues.
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Three days and two Techs left. Hmm... either I need to skip a day or figure out what to do about Friday.

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