Today I learned that the right blade depends on the right razor. I've got about 36 different types of blade on hand, and I've only gotten through 7 of them. I got to Astra SP last week and thought it could be my new go to blade. It did well in my Merkur 34C and my Weishi 9603. Today I used a fresh Astra SP in my brand new Cadet TTO-14, and was underwhelmed. I'm not sure yet whether it was the blade, the razor, my technique or something else.
Today I learned again that pressure is a no-no in wetshaving, including head shaving. Using my VDH with an Astra SP and had a trouble spot where I normally do, so instead of slowly doing another pass over the area I just pressed down......like I always did with a cart. The red trickle that soon ran down the back of my head reminded me of the proper technique for next time.
With the Merkur 34c I got for Christmas and my regular Asta SP blade I can get a DFS with just two passes + a few touch ups
Awaiting 2 Ebay purchases (vintage razors) to arrive and putting final touches or several online orders (soaps and AS) I'd have to say yes it is addictive....
Learned that not allowing time for a cut/razor burn on the upper lip to heal before shaving over it was a painful experience.
Learned the value of moisturizing in the winter. I was getting weepers with every shave on my neck. Even with my most trusty razors. Two days of moisturizing = back in business.
That I don't need to actually shave in order to splash some Men's Stock North Woods a/s on and feel great.
I was once again reminded "It's all about the shave" (used the Fusion Proglide with excellent results).
Gentlemen, from my last shave... I learned that a fine 40's SS shaves poorly if the blade is too loose. Check those TTO doors and snug them up!
Well.... That technique is essential with straight razor shaves. If I don't have the best possible conditions a good shave will be hard to achieve.
Good: That I love lather catchers and that Zirh Erase is still my favorite a/s tonic Bad: That I still don't care much for the VieLong horse hair brush
I learned I need to get something styptic. Had nicks and weepers before that alum worked on but caught my chin today and had a spurter!
I learned that Cold River Soap Works makes a darn fine product, and that I could be happy using only my Aristocrat everyday.
I learned what an aggressive razor is. I mean, I knew what it was from reading and researching, but now I've really learned from experience. I just picked up a Cadet TTO and it is so much more aggressive than my Merkur 34c and Weishi 9306f. The difference in aggressiveness from the Weishi to the Merkur is just a small step, noticeable, but not drastic. I've realized they're much closer to one another. Moving from the 34c to the Cadet felt like a very big step up in aggressiveness. I've started the January 30 Day Rule with this razor, it'll be a test of my technique.
