?

Do you use pre-shave oil?

Poll closed Dec 30, 2015.
  1. Yes.

    29.9%
  2. I have tried, but don't use it regularly.

    25.4%
  3. No.

    40.3%
  4. What is pre-shave oil?

    1.5%
  5. I am just here for the cookies.

    3.0%
  1. Is there a Russian straight that isn't questionable?
    Bill_F, Drygulch, wristwatchb and 4 others like this.
  2. What's the worst that could happen?
    Bill_F, Drygulch, wristwatchb and 4 others like this.
  3. Judging by the last few days my youth is well behind me. now I need the patience and wisdom of old age to hurry along. :happy088:
  4. Found this on FB today and thought it might somehow be appropriate. After all, we all started shaving this way because of the cost savings and to simply our lives right? And we all know how well that worked out. Not complaining mind you, just observing. And, I wouldn't go back to carts for anything.

    11059290_995799970445281_8505342935636201755_n.jpg
    Bill_F, Drygulch, Keithmax and 6 others like this.
  5. Well I can tell you, patience still hasn't found me and wisdom is just knowing when to shut up and let the other guy win. Or your wife, whichever applies.
    mrchick, Bill_F, Drygulch and 5 others like this.
  6. You read it here first...

    From the collection of @Keithmax

    uploadfromtaptalk1450740674832.jpg

    Last week I received a package containing a most generous offer to join the Dark Side. I accept.

    Thanks Keith... I will be doing 90 days of SR, starting in January, and am really looking forward to the process.
    mrchick, Bill_F, JR Reyes and 9 others like this.
  7. The edge on a shavette is finer, harsher and more likely to cut,main and burn. At least that's the way it feels to me. It's probably a thicker sharper edge since I don't get any pulling feel with a straight but even with a feather I get a tug on my goatee area in a shavette.
    mrchick, Bill_F, Drygulch and 7 others like this.
  8. Machine ground steel also has a harsher feel than hand honed steel. Or at least I've read that and I believe it after only two shaves. I think one thing putting me a bit on edge with the straight is really how "soft" it is compared to an Artist Club blade. With the AC I know the second the blade is on my face. With the straight, it seems, there's not that instant acknowledgement. Just a different feel to it.
    Bill_F, Drygulch, Keithmax and 5 others like this.
  9. Nice looking razor. If you'd like to join Adam and I just strop that on some rough sandpaper for an hour or two. Should match up to Soviet steel.
    TomJ89de, mrchick, Bill_F and 6 others like this.
  10. That is the same razor I have been using these past few shaves. I hope it works as well for you as it has been for me.
  11. There has to be at least one.
  12. Congrats Chris! Kudos Keith!

    I'll hopefully be able to join everyone else on the Dark Side in the New Year.
    TomJ89de, mrchick, Bill_F and 6 others like this.
  13. Don't know if Ill be joining the dark side until I have a new hone. 6k isnt enough and my Arkie has defeated my sandpaper. I've been told that it is too much of a jump between them as well so I'm looking at an 8k and 12k. I may take a chance on a cheap amazon hone but want to hold out for Naniwas.
    wristwatchb, TomJ89de, Bill_F and 3 others like this.
  14. I have a 12k stone for maintenance and I just added a J Nat to test. Comparing these stones and different pastes will be my Jan focus.
  15. OK, test shave #2, the French Faux Frameback.

    WD 20mm synthetic
    PdP
    French straight
    Fat Boy/GSB(2)
    Alum
    Lemongrass Menthol WH

    I loaded the PdP like it owed me money and I was late on rent. I partially bowl lathered then perfected the lather on my face. I set the razor down and pulled it WTG from sideburn to the tip of my chin and. . .
    Same level of sharp as yesterdays ??? Straight. It was a bit tuggy but removed a good amount of hair. The blade grind felt more dangerous and above my lip it ski down a tough hair and bit me. My other razors would have powered through but this one flexed and bit instead. I stopped the blood with cold water and pressure finished the pass and again picked up the Fat Boy. The PdP was great but I'm not fond of the scent. It's a soap I'll use up the tiny sample I have and not buy more of. I did 2.5 passes worth on the FatBoy. It was smooth and comfortable to the end. The half pass was the touch up on the neck. I ended with a solid DFS. Alum was quiet except for the cut on my lip. My fiance requested I use the lemongrass scent and when she is happy she makes sure I am too so I finished with my home mixed WH. The menthol was nice and the Lemongrass essential oil was amazing.
  16. I'll get right on it!
  17. Or, you could just hone it on this luxurious stone. I'm sure it wouldn't hurt it a bit!
    cinderblock.jpg
  18. 2016 may be the year of the straight here on the 30 day thread.
  19. I may be able to join in on the fun with Open Razor 2016. Remember I wear an XL shirt and prefer a wetter lather. Is red a good color for the shirts? Hide the blood stains of learning?