So today i decided that im going to start shaving with a straight blade instead of my mach 3.
Im sick of spending $15+ on replaceable razors for this thing, so i decided to spend $15 on a straight blade, 10 extra blades and some nick stop.
Iv never tried it before, but iv seen it done many times in the military and a few friends taught me how to do it.
I can firmly say i will not be going back to my razor anymore. After about 35 minutes, yes thats right it took me 35 minutes to shave tonight, I have never had a closer shave. Have a few cuts, but who cares, this is so badass!
So who here isnt scared to put a blade to their neck? i know some of the old guys will chime in.
Lets here some tips and tricks, maybe the best place for equipment, blades, etc…
honestly, I have found I get the best shave using a single blade Bic disposable DRY. you get like 10 for a couple bucks, and shaving dry makes them last at least 5 shaves. I have only cut myself maybe 2 or 3 times EVER this way
ugh, the thought of that makes me cringe. i used to do that as well in the army and i will never again. it just feels so much better with shaving cream and taking my time with a blade.
I hate shaving, but if i dont at least every 2-3 days, i look like an ape. im not even kidding. i had to carry an electric razor with me in the military or else i would get accused of not shaving.
Cant use a cheap disposable they rip my face up. Electrics are useless and burn my neck. I usually shave with a decent 2 or 3 blade. i like sensor excels. Never used a str8 blade on myself, had it done a few times at the the barber. I guess I’d be open to trying it with a good piece and the proper sharpening equipment. Where did u score yours?
i went to sally beauty on ridge rd. i bought a cheap one, but its actually better than most i have seen. They had one for $5, $20, and $50. the blades are like 5 bucks for 10, but can be found for stupid cheap online.
as for all the other equipment, stone, leather strap and application brushes, i didnt buy those yet. i figures before i spend a ton on supplies, i better try it and see if i like it.
Be prepared to cut your face up though, its def a learning process.
i would recommend picking up the nick powder as well. as soon as you cut yourself, apply the powder and it stops it from bleeding and the cut is barely visable.
iv got 3 nasty cuts though. im left handed and tried using my right hand and cut myself up good.
My girl buys this certain kind of 2 blade disposable, I have to say they wont cut you and i never get razor burn, but they dont get remarkably close. I need to upgrade, but buying replacement blades sucks. I normally only use the disposable once any ways. I’m wierd about shit like that.
i would not recommend a straight blade for someone who is unsure or not confident in their skills. thats the only time i cut myself is when i started losing concentration and trying to rush.
the mach 3 is awesome, i use it all the time, but replacements are a bitch to buy. $15 for 5 blades is nuts. but then again i use them for a week at a time and then change it. cant justify using them once and throwing them out.
Not reading it all, because it turns out our generation is so misguided and disconnected from 100+ years of tribal shaving knowledge it’s sad.
I did some research recently and learned how to get a decent shave:
GO OLD SCHOOL.
Get yourself a badger hair brush, a tub of english shaving cream, and a double edge safety razor aka the razor your great grandpa more than likely used. Easier than a cut throat, but works as well.
Oh, whatever $15 dollar cut throat your using is a piece of shit. No wonder you’re all cut up. They shouldn’t cost less than $80.
Here’s what I use/recommend:
Vulfix badger hair brush. $35. Badger hair absorbs water, unlike most animals’ hair. Hence, you get a nice foamy protective lather.
Merkur classic safety razor. $30. Made in Germany. Been around 100 years. Open comb if you’re extra burly and want a really close shave. Closed comb if you’re more concerned with razor burn than close-ness.
Taylor of Old Bond Street Shaving Cream. $15.
Kiss uncomfortable shaves and razor burn goodbye. Your great grand pappy would be proud.
I started shaving this way a month ago. You could not pay me to use shitty grocery store disposable crap again. No more pulling, no more red bumps on my neck, no more discomfort.
I’m currently using a Merkur classic closed comb razor, Merkur blades, badger hair brush from Crabtree & Evelyn, and shaving cream from Crabtree & Evelyn. They were all gifts and work well, but once the blades wear out I’ll be ordering feathers from classicshaving.com and shaving cream made by taylor of old bond street. If the brush wears out then I’ll get a Vulfix.
Here’s the article that initially sent me down the right path, FYI:
