Andrew, in spite of the less than optimal results, you learned from this experience. Straight razors are great shaving tools, but we need to respect it. I have almost 300 open blade shaves and I sometimes lose my focus for a split second and the razor reminded me with blood loss, albeit I never really got any big cuts. This also happens when I am on autopilot. I also make sure that I am wide awake when straight-shaving, otherwise, disastrous results will definitely occur. I always say to newbies, start with the cheeks and stop, and then use your reg daily shaver to finish. Do this a couple of shaves to get a feel for your straight. Once you are comfortable, shave the cheeks and neck, wtg and finish with razor. Keep doing this until you can do the cheeks, neck, chin and mustache area for a WTG pass. Once proficient on this first pass. Start the second pass XTG or ATG just doing your cheeks and continue slowly adding more parts to the 2 pass on subsequent shaves. Notice, you will be using less of your daily razor to finish the shave until you get to do a complete straight shave without using your daily shaver.
very cool,never tried a feather..platinums are sharp enough fo me..but i hear they work well in mild /medium razors..
February Favorites February 25 Razor - 1918 Gillette Old Type Blade - (3) Soap - Soap Commander Courage Brush - Omega Pro 48 Post - Alum One more day on the 1918 with carbon Treet Silver. And, another day to wipe out more of the Soap Commander. It's getting there. Just taking its time. I used the Omega Pro 48 on it on the suggestion of @Primotenore . Genius idea. Big heavy boar brush. It did make a difference but the ring is still hanging in there. The shave itself was fantastic. The Treet Silver is holding up like it's a stainless blade, not a carbon one. Still smooth and sharp and doing a great job in this aggressive razor. Three passes for an absolute BBS and all's well that ends well! Have a great Wednesday!
Thanks, Danny! I bought the brush about 2 months ago because it matches my 2 C-Mon straight razors with golden scales. Unbeknowst to me at the time of purchase, I have other razors whose scales matches the brush's colors as well. Clint and Jim were the enablers that brought this brush to the forefront of my consciousness. I don't regret it because it is not only my most aesthetic brush, but it is my best performer.
Fantastic shave, Neal! My carbon steel gems always treated me right, but taking them out and drying them off is a piece of cake with vintage gem-style razors. Good to hear your blades are treating you right as well
I always report my bad shaves, it helps drive the lesson home. I learned those tips in blood. I predict you next shave will be much better.
After the recent fails with near wedge blades I am going to focus on smiling razors for a week. Today's razor, Ali's Blade has a nice smile and very sweet edge. I paired with some favorites, Castle Forbes and a Simpson Tulip 3. All is right with my shaving world again.
good morning gents.up between naps,head cold full on..wednesday shave..brit flare tip rocket/platinum.fine cb lather with the semogue 830,near bbs in 2+ passes.whiskey woods to finish..have a fine day gents..