What a discovery! Getting away from disposable razors

From the time I began to shave, circa 1986, I have used disposable razors that pull the hair prior to cutting it off, and I have had from slight to moderate irritated skin ever since. I have hated shaving almost as much as I have hated how I look with facial hair (even tried the beard, goatee, mustache, and I was not meant for any of them, they look bad on me). So I have always shaved about 2x a week to minimize red patches on my face.

Then I discover you guys, your forum, and the concept that shaving can actually be a pleasurable experience, without skin irritation if I get the right tools and skills.

So I bought a 1962 Classic Vintage Gillette Slim Adjustable Double Edge Safety Razor (Nickel Plated), a real Badger Hair brush (Honey Badger Don't Care), A sampler pack of blades (20 some different kinds), and some Sandalwood soap. Everything should arrive by next Wednesday, and I am pumped.

I used one of these once, when I was 6 and wanted to mimic my Dad. After taking off the top layer of my facial skin I immediately drowned my face in aftershave (Yes, alcohol based), resulting in, up until now, Dopelrazorphobia: An acute fear of old fashioned shaving implements.

I can't wait to shave with my new tools, and will report back on my experience.

 

Welcome, A440!

 

Welcome to the Shave Den! The Gillette Slim adjustable is one of my favourite razors - can be as mild or aggressive as you want and Gillette build them to withstand the test of time.

 

So glad to hear I got a good one. Some of them get into the $100+ range and I was worried I might have to really step up to get high quality gear. Just got to hit it hard with the scrubbing bubbles to make sure I don't get cooties from it's previous owner.

 

Welcome to the Den.

We know you'll fit right in.

So grab yourself a comfy chair,

and give our threads a spin!

Burma Shave

 

Welcome! Glad to see you are getting over your fear!
Just remember take your time and work on your technique and everything should go as smooth as possible.

 

Mostly it would be the FatBoys or New Old Stock Slim Adjustables that would fetch such high prices, fortunately "decent condition" ones are still on the affordable side for the most part, the Slim being the more economical of the Adjustable lineup. They are definitely top notch razors, if you're new to DEs I would suggest starting off with setting it around 2-3 for your first few shaves, until you start getting your technique down

 

You're in the right place man, welcome. I have a '62 Slim as well. They are very good razors and I hope you enjoy it.

One piece of advice: when you turn the adjusting knob on the razor, make sure the silo doors are open. If you leave the razor shut and turn the dial, you'll ruin the internal mechanics of the razor.

 

That is good advice, I would not have known about that. Thanks!

 

Hi, and welcome to the Den! You've got some nice gear to get you started! As Rafen said: take your time an'you'll be allright. Enjoy!

 

Glad you are off to a good start. I will just add one piece of advice- do not use any pressure. Let the weight of the razor do the work. Remember, it is probably heavier than whatever you were using.

 

Welcome to your new addiction!

 

Welcome!

 

Hi! Welcome to the Den from a fellow '62 Slim owner. Great razor! Glad you're here.

 

Correct me if I'm wrong but didn't 007 carry around a '62 Slim?

 

Welcome to The Shave Den, a great community of guys and gals that enjoy wet shaving, I hope you enjoy your stay!


Be sure to sign up for the August Newbie Give-Away for a chance to win some great shave gear!

 

Welcome to the Den! Good luck on our shaving adventures! You will be loving it in no time!

 

Absolutely agree, take things slow, and don't use any pressure and use short, smooth strokes and you will be fine, welcome to the shave den, and don't be afraid to ask for advice , good luck!!!

 

Welcome and enjoy the ride. A lifetimes of good shaves to come. Well done you!