Any tips or things to look out for when using a Gem for the first time? I received the PIFed Gem from Billr and it looks great and I will be trying it out tomorrow. This will be the first old razor I have ever used. If this starts another AD I will be able to thank Bill.
There are lovers and haters of the Gem MM, particularly the open comb version. The lovers say that it is an awesome shave, the haters say it tears them up. I had the OC version and did not like it, but I got (or traded, I can't remember now) a PIF of a Gem Featherweight from Dougr and it was a great shaver and the Star 1912 I grabbed awhile back is a great shaver too. If the one you have is an open comb, and it does not suit you, don't give up on SE's like I almost did, find another SE to try! What blades do you have for it?
Hold those razor FLAT against your face..then as the weeks progress you can start to hold it with the edge on your face..thats about it! ST
Yup to all said above. They can give a good shave, but they aren't called cheesegraters for nothing (actually, I haven't read that comment in a long time). Don't rush! Personally, they never did much for me. I think I have PIF'd away all of my open comb ones. I prefer the G-bar or the old lather catchers myself.
The Micromatics are my favorite razors, but they require a bit of a learning curve and they tend to be a bit more harsh than DE razors. So, as others have said, go slow. Also, a good pre-shave soaking of the beard with a hot washcloth helps a lot.
For me, the micromatic was a no-brainer. My facial hair is as course and tough as it gets, and the instant I picked up my open combed micromatic, I knew it was a match made in heaven To me, the shaving motion and method are much more natural and intuitive with a hoe-type razor, and I've never had a bad shave from my micromatics. I shave with them probably 5 days out of the week. All I can really say is that you should trust your fingertips. The micromatic gives really good vibrational feedback, and if you're in tune with your sense, you'll know how to adjust the cutting angle so that you don't butcher your face, and get a close cut.
No pressure is super key but I will admit I am a fan the 1912 more than any other i have tried but the g bar is pretty nice as well. Go slow and no pressure and you will get some great shaves.
