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Safety Razors

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Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7,182 ✭✭✭Genghiz Cohen


    Gave my housemate a cheapo Wilkinson Sword razor to try out and he went straight to shaving his head, didn't complain about and cuts or nick or anything. Just amazed at how long the shave lasts him.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    Gave my housemate a cheapo Wilkinson Sword razor to try out and he went straight to shaving his head, didn't complain about and cuts or nick or anything. Just amazed at how long the shave lasts him.

    The Wilkinson Sword DE?


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,330 ✭✭✭Gran Hermano


    Michael G wrote: »
    The Wilkinson Sword DE?

    It is a plastic handled DE razor, available in the likes of Boots and Tesco for
    under a tenner. Boots also stock a similar plastic own brand razor.


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 6,869 ✭✭✭Mahatma coat


    Was readin this thread and it got me interested

    SO
    I Bought this today
    http://therazorshop.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=348&category_id=33&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=55

    $20 very happy with it

    What I'd like to know is what advantage is there in buying a $100+ Razor??


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,450 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    Was readin this thread and it got me interested

    SO
    I Bought this today
    http://therazorshop.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=348&category_id=33&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=55

    $20 very happy with it

    What I'd like to know is what advantage is there in buying a $100+ Razor??

    I suppose some will say it's the feel & handling of certain razors. Also weight and balance can be important.
    I am relatively new to DE shaving, I've been using my Merkur Progress for just over a month now. Last week I bought a Gillette Fat Boy (1961) and wow, I had a great shave using the same razor brand as the Progress. Only one small nick and overall the shave felt smoother so there is definitely something about the razor that matters.

    I'm also beginning to think the long handle on the Progress is doing me no favours, the short handle on the Fat Boy means my hand is closer to the face allowing me to maintain a lighter grip etc. I might shorten my grip on the Progress and see how it goes.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,450 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    foinse wrote: »
    Different people have different reactions to different blades, I for one am a big fan of the 7 O'Clock Green's, I tried Derby's and they were okay, When I tried personna from the sample pack I ripped the face off myself, I didn't even look at the feathers :D:D, I think it's all down to your skin type and shaving style as to what works best for you.

    I'm enjoying the 7 O'Clock Greens too. I am still in my 'sample' mode. I tried Personna red first and hmm, not too impressed. At the time my technique wasn't the best either I guess so I will go back to them and give them another try soon.
    I also tried Derby Extra and again, only so-so. The moment I tried a 7 O'Clock green I was amazed. Much smoother three-pass shave compared to the others.
    I will look forward to trying a 7 O'Clock Yellow next and I also got the Gillette Extra Thin blades, they look like they are made for the Indian market I think.
    Then and only then will I unwrap the beast that is the Feathers :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,061 ✭✭✭Uriel.


    I'm enjoying the 7 O'Clock Greens too. I am still in my 'sample' mode. I tried Personna red first and hmm, not too impressed. At the time my technique wasn't the best either I guess so I will go back to them and give them another try soon.
    I also tried Derby Extra and again, only so-so. The moment I tried a 7 O'Clock green I was amazed. Much smoother three-pass shave compared to the others.
    I will look forward to trying a 7 O'Clock Yellow next and I also got the Gillette Extra Thin blades, they look like they are made for the Indian market I think.
    Then and only then will I unwrap the beast that is the Feathers :)

    I've been using a DE for about 6 months now. I still haven't tried the Feathers yet, but the time is coming soon.

    I have found the Astras and Derbys to be good, absolutely hated the Personna and I have been using 7 O'Clock Yellows for the past 2 months. I found the Greens to be so so and I also hated the Merkur blades.

    7 O'Clock yellows or Astras would probably be my long-term choice.

    Has anyone tried the Bolzano or Elios blades?

    I really do think it comes down to personal choice and circumstances (type of skin, technique etc..) though when it comes to selecting blades.

    For any DE starters out there, the best best is to try them all, but give each a generous amount of time until you decide on a longer-term choice.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,026 ✭✭✭Amalgam


    ..What I'd like to know is what advantage is there in buying a $100+ Razor??

    None really, unless you want a particular vintage model. You're paying extra to separate yourself from the herd. After that $100 $200 or $300 purchase.. there's absolutely no guarantee of a good shave, it just might not suit your skin\face.

    Having said that, I would pay extra for some heavy duty craftsmanship. I am partial to big slabs of steel..

    http://www.ikonrazors.com/

    Using a Mühle R106 at the moment, with 'yellow Gillette' blades.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,920 ✭✭✭hitemfrank


    Uriel. wrote: »
    ...snip

    Has anyone tried the Bolzano or Elios blades?

    ...snip


    I've tried them both. The Bolzano blades are the best blades I've used (I've tried quite a few) and the Elios were one of the worst - I could have gotten the same shave from a cheese grater.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,297 ✭✭✭source


    Was readin this thread and it got me interested

    SO
    I Bought this today
    http://therazorshop.com/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&product_id=348&category_id=33&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=55

    $20 very happy with it

    What I'd like to know is what advantage is there in buying a $100+ Razor??

    I think, like with razor blades. It's all down to personal preference. Some like a long handle, some short, some people like a razor with an adjustable head, some like an open comb and some like slant razors. So it really does all come down to the person.

    Some people have SAD (Shaving Acquisition Disorder), which is a very prevalent disorder on this forum, If you look at my sig you'll notice that I even have it. :D:D:D Some just like shiny sharp things and don't care how much they pay for it.


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 6,869 ✭✭✭Mahatma coat


    I Wouldnt be a mad, must have the shiny one, type person, but I do strive for the Best, thats why I ask. Something O noticed tho is that a lot of the Rqazors have a Solid top bit that screws in place to hold the blade, mine is a butterfly mechanisim, so none of the bits come off, which do people think is better, I would have thought that Butterfly was better but the more expensive ones are the other style


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 398 ✭✭Shaving.ie


    I Wouldnt be a mad, must have the shiny one, type person, but I do strive for the Best, thats why I ask. Something O noticed tho is that a lot of the Rqazors have a Solid top bit that screws in place to hold the blade, mine is a butterfly mechanisim, so none of the bits come off, which do people think is better, I would have thought that Butterfly was better but the more expensive ones are the other style

    The Butterfly mechanism is the best in terms of simplicity when changing a blade. They are more prone to damage/loosening at the hinges which can lead to a loose fitting blade. Three piece razors are more solid and have a much more secure hold on the blade. The 3 piece head is also generally slimmer and easier to manoeuvre into tricky areas like under the nose. The razor you bought is more commonly known as a Weishi or Timor which are known to be very mild shavers and great for a beginner.

    Price is generally usually dictated by country of manufacture (labour/production costs/quality of raw materials), popularity and design. Weishi razors are made in China, Merkur and Mühle are made in Germany and Feathers are made in Japan which has a rich history of high quality craftsmanship.


  • Banned (with Prison Access) Posts: 6,869 ✭✭✭Mahatma coat


    Timor is a Lovely place, from now on I will refer to mine as a Timor Razor


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    Three years in, I find that I get perfect shaves from
    • Feather and
    • Asda/Tesco own-brand (Personna?)
    I use a Progress Long Handle. Would I gain anything from using the shorter Progress?


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,330 ✭✭✭Gran Hermano


    I reckon it's overkill having both Progress models - and that's from someone who has both. Whilst I find the long handled heavier and more aggressive they fact they are both adjustable means I can get equal shaves by having the long handled on 2-3 as the short handled on 3-4.

    If you want to pick up a different razor for a bit of variety try an open comb or the Futur,
    great for when you have more than one day of stubble.

    I'm trying Feathers out again, found they left weepers when I was starting out. But with a couple of years good practice and a quality cream I'm having flawless results.
    Geo F Trumpers Coconut or one of Nannys Shaving soaps give me the best lather and protection and make a big difference with Feathers or straights.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    Just had my third shave with my new Merkur 15C http://www.shaving.ie/products/Merkur-15c-Open-Comb-Razor.html using the Merkur blade that came with it. A few blood spots the first time, one or two the second time and none today. And bits are smooth that were never smooth before. Very pleased. I love the grip you get from the handle, which is better than you get with the Progress. (As usual, 24-hour turn-around on my order from Chris at shaving.ie :).)


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,330 ✭✭✭Gran Hermano


    Michael G wrote: »
    Just had my third shave with my new Merkur 15C http://www.shaving.ie/products/Merkur-15c-Open-Comb-Razor.html using the Merkur blade that came with it. A few blood spots the first time, one or two the second time and none today. And bits are smooth that were never smooth before. Very pleased. I love the grip you get from the handle, which is better than you get with the Progress. (As usual, 24-hour turn-around on my order from Chris at shaving.ie :).)

    If you like the open comb razors, keep an eye out for the vintage Gillette New range. http://www.mr-razor.com/Rasierer/The%20NEW/The%20NEW.htm
    I've a couple from the 1930's and they are great for those shaves where I have more than 24 hours worth of stubble.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    Merkur 15C with Feather blade = perfection :D


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 398 ✭✭Shaving.ie


    Mastering an open comb / slant with a Feather blade... it doesn't get much better than that:)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    I am fascinated by this razor and how expensive it is. Is it really worth the price? Has anyone tried it or does anyone know someone who has?


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,450 ✭✭✭run_Forrest_run


    Michael G wrote: »
    I am fascinated by this razor and how expensive it is. Is it really worth the price? Has anyone tried it or does anyone know someone who has?

    it does get great reviews, geofatboy (on youtube) has reviewed it and liked it.
    But yes, it's pricey, I wouldn't be buying one.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,877 ✭✭✭CrowdedHouse


    Michael G wrote: »
    I am fascinated by this razor and how expensive it is. Is it really worth the price? Has anyone tried it or does anyone know someone who has?

    Well I didn't actually buy it but BBS shaves every day since Christmas Day(thanks honey :D).So smooth you'd think there's no blade in it.

    At the price it's a bit of a gamble if you didn't like it...

    Seven Worlds will Collide



  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,330 ✭✭✭Gran Hermano


    I was tempted to pick up that Feather, the design and finish look top class. What has stopped me is reviews seem to rate it as a rather mild razor and I tend to favour my shaving hardware higher up on the aggressive scale. At least with adjustables you can dial up to a setting that suits but I already have a half dozen razors that I find too mild (Super speeds, slim adjustable and some EJ razors).


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,026 ✭✭✭Amalgam


    Like Gran Hermano, I was tempted, but I read about the blade gap\shave angle on it being quite like a Gillette Tech. Not my cup of tea, for that price, to be honest.

    CrowdedHouse, what's your opinion? You've approached this razor having been a Merkur and\or Mühle user previously.

    Tried any Gillette Yellow\Green, with it?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,877 ✭✭✭CrowdedHouse


    Amalgam wrote: »

    CrowdedHouse, what's your opinion? You've approached this razor having been a Merkur and\or Mühle user previously.

    Tried any Gillette Yellow\Green, with it?

    Well my weapon of choice was a Red Tip Super Speed, I have never got a satisfactory shave from any of the Merkurs I tried (34,38, open comb 12).

    For me the Feather AS works very well with (NOS) Gillette Bleue Extra,Feather and Astra Platinum.

    I think I have some Yellows I'll give them a try during the week. I didn't like the Green when I tried (in SS)although I have some Indian Green which worked well in the SS but haven't tried them in the Feather AS

    I wonder are people mixing up 'mildness' with 'smoothness' it does feel at times that there is no blade in it, it's that smooth. It's hefty and very well made.
    Cured my RAD for sure - I get perfect shaves every time

    Seven Worlds will Collide



  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    Cured my RAD for sure - I get perfect shaves every time
    I had some cash to spare so I was just looking for a way to justify buying it. I hope to get it tomorrow. If anyone is interested, I will post about how it goes.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    I got some Voskhod blades as a freebie in my order from Shaving.ie. They are made in Russia and are teflon-coated, according to the package. Has anyone tried them? (I normally use Feathers.)


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,330 ✭✭✭Gran Hermano


    http://www.dovo.com/_english/neuheiten.html

    New catalogue for 2011 out with some new Merkur razors.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,299 ✭✭✭✭MadsL


    I just went wow...wow...wow and WOW! at the first four items on that link. The new DOVO straights are gorgeous. I like that they look like new designs, the woods are great and I love the worked spine model. (/wants :))


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 268 ✭✭theboat


    So, just did my first ever DE shave, and while it wasn't exactly a fantastic success, I rather enjoyed it!
    I used the boots own brand DE razor, tesco own brand blade, palmolive classic shave cream and a cheap brush (boar, I assume). Went for really cheap (all came in just under €16) as I wanted to see if it's for me before spending more money.
    I loved the feel of the razor when I was shaving my cheeks (i.e. the easiest bits), but I found the jawline and neck much trickier, and gave myself quite a few nicks. I'm assuming this is all down to my technique, which I'm looking forward to working on, but I might also look into better equipment in a few shaves time.
    Found mantic59's videos really helpful, and definitely found mixing my own lather really satisfying. Not 100% sure if I'm a convert yet, but I'm close!


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,299 ✭✭✭✭MadsL


    It's down to technique.

    Put it this way you can tootle around town all day in a micra, but put you on a rally stage chances are you will scrape a door or two. :D

    Keep going (and learning from the various forums) but above all;

    NO Pressure - let the razor do the work, it works totally differently to a cartridge. Remember to stretch your skin.

    Also learn to accept a less than BBS shave in the first few weeks, you might be conscious of it at first but no-one else will notice. After a few weeks you will suprise yourself with how close your shave is.

    Also - really learn your beard growth direction, it helps to make sure you are following a WTG, then XTG process. Don't get too hung up on ATG until you a shaving comfortably WTG & XTG.

    If you are nicking yourself well worth getting a styptic pencil and alum block. Alum block is also good for making the fingers of your non shaving hand 'grippy'.



    WTG - with the grain
    XTG - across the grain
    ATG - against the grain
    BBS - baby's bum smooth


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,566 ✭✭✭Gillo


    Interestingly, I tried the Baxter of California shave cream, turns out it's made by Mhule (going by a sticker on top of the label). It gave a really nice shave, although was a bit tricky to get the lather right, in fairness it was my first time using it though.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 268 ✭✭theboat


    Thanks for the advice @MadsL
    Shave #2 this morning. Went much better than the first one. Did three passes, two WTG, and one kind of XTG (still figuring out the beard growth direction in some places). Was much more careful about letting the razor do the work, and of stretching my skin, so fewer nicks this time. The neck is still the hardest place to get right for me. Didn't help that I had a couple of spots, which tended to catch the razor.
    All in all, though, an improvement!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,299 ✭✭✭✭MadsL


    Great stuff - keep persevering. Aim to get to say 14 shaves and then be able to complete a WTG and XTG passes without nicks. Take it slowly.

    To let you know how I'm doing with the straight - I had a good shave this morning and was happy with the directionally smooth result as I didn't need to do any touchups with my Ever-ready Single Edge. This is a breakthrough, especially around the chin.

    Now I'm aiming to get more confident ATG - I'm slowly adding in ATG bits and pieces, but holding a cutthroat under your chin with the blade pointing UP makes me (understandably) a tad nervous. It's coming though. And no nicks for a while :D


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 201 ✭✭settings


    I had my first shave with my new muhle r89 safety razor just now.
    It took me 3 attempts to make a semi decent lather, I had the brush too wet and then not enough soap. I use that little muhle shaving bowl and alot of the lather crept up the sides.
    A derby blade came packed with the razor so I used that. Initially, I found it pretty difficult to get the angle right - didnt know if the bade was on my face or not. First of all i went wtg - again wasnt getting the blade right in alot of places and to go over and over. I only had enough foam for a 2nd pass so went against the grain on my neck and against the grain on top before I realised xtg would be better.
    I certainly didnt do a good job and I can feel a bit of stubble in places- face especially my neck. I got quite a few nicks too mainly on my neck. Running that stone thingy on my face after was torture ha:D
    It was alot different than I anticipated but I'll definitely stick with it and can only get better!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 20,299 ✭✭✭✭MadsL


    I certainly didnt do a good job and I can feel a bit of stubble in places- face especially my neck. I got quite a few nicks too mainly on my neck.

    It will improve.
    It was alot different than I anticipated

    In what ways?
    but I'll definitely stick with it and can only get better!

    Good stuff!

    Some good advice on blade angle here - try to listen to the sound of shaving too, it will tell you a lot. Obviously silence isn't good :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 201 ✭✭settings


    MadsL wrote: »
    In what ways?

    Hmm i guess from all the videos I was watching it didn't go as smoothly as I imagined ha. Another thing, I was conscious not put any pressure on the blade and I noticed the blade 'bounced' the odd time after hitting some stubble if that makes sense. Other times I noticed going over and over the same little spot (wtg) trying to get rid of a bit of stubble- above my lip.

    I had shave #2 last night and it was a good bit better. I find it hard to get the soap on the brush without making a mess so i just pulled a lump of soap off with my fingernail and threw it in the bowl. I discovered the stubble grows from left to right on my neck/chin and I really went to town trying to weave (ATG so sideways) around my adams apple with my novice hand- had about 6 or 7 cuts by the end:D

    I hope to have a better shave tomorrow/sunday. I might try an astra or gillette blade and see if it makes a difference over the derby. My stubble now is what my normal cartridge blade would be tomorrow so I hope a shave as close as that is possible with a safety blade and 3 passes max when I get better technique.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 9,577 ✭✭✭lord lucan


    theboat wrote: »
    So, just did my first ever DE shave, and while it wasn't exactly a fantastic success, I rather enjoyed it!
    I used the boots own brand DE razor, tesco own brand blade, palmolive classic shave cream and a cheap brush (boar, I assume). Went for really cheap (all came in just under €16) as I wanted to see if it's for me before spending more money.
    I loved the feel of the razor when I was shaving my cheeks (i.e. the easiest bits), but I found the jawline and neck much trickier, and gave myself quite a few nicks. I'm assuming this is all down to my technique, which I'm looking forward to working on, but I might also look into better equipment in a few shaves time.
    Found mantic59's videos really helpful, and definitely found mixing my own lather really satisfying. Not 100% sure if I'm a convert yet, but I'm close!

    I'm in a similar boat. Being following this forum for a few weeks and watching loads of videos. Went for the Wilkinson Sword DE in boots,a Men-U brush and Men-U shaving cream for starters.

    I'm on 2 weeks leave so figured it was the perfect time to start rather than bleary eyed in the early hours of the morning before work. Had my first shave yesterday evening and it went pretty well. No real nicks to speak of. Hardest thing was to get out of the habits built up from using standard Gillette razors and moving the blade at various angles all over the face.

    Similar to many,the neck area was a little rough afterwards but to be expected. Enjoyed it i have to say and it didn't really take much longer than a 'normal' shave. Gonna have a go at it every 2nd day for the next week or so and try to perfect it. I have Shaving.ie bookmarked and some items picked out based on user recommendations here.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 5,566 ✭✭✭Gillo


    You'll be amazed at the difference moving from the Wilkinson Sword to the likes of a Merkuer, not only does it feel a lot more solid but all round it much nicer experience.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    Michael G wrote: »
    I had some cash to spare so I was just looking for a way to justify buying it. I hope to get it tomorrow. If anyone is interested, I will post about how it goes.
    As far as I can tell, it is impossible to cut yourself with this razor unless you deliberatly swipe it sideways on your face, and shaving too hard is equally difficult. A great razor for quick and comfortable daily shaves.

    HOWEVER, if I want to take my time and get a real BBS result I go back to my open comb or to my late father's sixty-year-old bog-standard Gillette.


  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 9,689 Mod ✭✭✭✭stevenmu


    settings wrote: »
    Hmm i guess from all the videos I was watching it didn't go as smoothly as I imagined ha. Another thing, I was conscious not put any pressure on the blade and I noticed the blade 'bounced' the odd time after hitting some stubble if that makes sense.
    I suppose it'll vary from person to person but I find that actually putting some pressure into it gives a much smoother shave. Nowhere near as much as a cartridge, I practically had to hit myself with Gillette mach-whatevers to get a close shave, but with a DE I still feel like I need some solid pressure to get it right. That does go against what pretty much everyone says, but it works great for me.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 797 ✭✭✭Michael G


    I kind of agree. On areas like the cheeks and upper lip I find I need to give it a little pressure. But if I do that on sensitive areas like the throat or under the chin, the results are disastrous.

    It probably comes down to the fact that every man has to work out his own technique over time. (I am assuming that this forum has no women members, though of course you never know.)


  • Registered Users Posts: 38 Giant Kiwi


    Timor is a Lovely place, from now on I will refer to mine as a Timor Razor

    Sorry to go off topic here briefly.

    Mahatma coat are you serious?!?!?!?!?!:confused:

    You're clearly not talking about Timor Leste unless you're using sarcasm.

    Had nothing but trouble when I was there.

    Couldn't even get a decent shave.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 201 ✭✭settings


    stevenmu wrote: »
    I suppose it'll vary from person to person but I find that actually putting some pressure into it gives a much smoother shave. Nowhere near as much as a cartridge, I practically had to hit myself with Gillette mach-whatevers to get a close shave, but with a DE I still feel like I need some solid pressure to get it right. That does go against what pretty much everyone says, but it works great for me.

    I noticed when I hold the razor firm without using much/any pressure it really makes a big difference.
    The last shave, #5, was pretty good - only got one nick in a non problem spot so I was happy about that.
    Im not getting near as close as my wilkinson sword quattro cartridge (with it i just went one pass ATG, one min job normally) but I feel this is a much 'healthier' shave for my face. The other night I was kinda surprised I had to shave again- despite shaving the day before that, it kept me up alot later than I anticipated. If I could get a little closer shave I would be alot happier with the whole safety razor setup but then again I havent had 6 shaves yet :rolleyes:

    I wont be giving up yet as I have 100x7 o'clock blades, 100xastra, 200x feather in the post along with about 4-5 bars of soap and 2 tubes of cream:D oh and the 50 blade sample pack.
    Im gonna stick with the astras for now til I get my technique good


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 9,330 ✭✭✭Gran Hermano


    Settings, I find I get an extra 6 hours before the 6 o'clock shadow appears if I shave with a DE compared to a cart. In fact I can comfortably shave around midnight and be stubble free for the next work day.

    Are you shaving with the grain only? Try with, across and finish with against the grain. Rather than applying more pressure I'd recommend stretching the skin with your other hand as you shave - something you'll need to do if you move onto straight razors and which I find helps DE shaves equally. Also watch the angle the razor is against your skin, the best angle you shave at will vary across razor brands and I know it is something I watch out for when rotating which DE I'm using.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 201 ✭✭settings


    Yeah you see thats it, the last time I didnt go ATG, it was wth->xtg x2 so you are right about that. The last time I went atg on my neck.. well it was like a scene from the exorcist ha, but I have improved alot since then. I havent stretched my skin either, I did hear of that in geofatboys video where he gave the tip to avoid any nicks with a 'grandious' adams apple:).
    I heard somewhere that carts shave 'below' the skin (with the tug/hack thing they got going) while DEs cut to skin level so I had it in my head I would never get as close a shave as I did with my cartridge.
    Im actually going for shave number 6 now, will make the 3rd pass ATG and see if I can fit in a stretch or 2:pac:
    thanks for tips

    edit: just had shave #6 there. Enjoyed it, took me 30 mins at a leisurely pace - washing everything etc. Only 1-2 very minor ticks between nose and lip, neck was scrape free. I got a good, close shave all over but my neck and along 'the bone between my cheek and neck' has alot of black specs/shadow. I didnt really do any stretching this time, was too busy concentrating to remember ha.
    Definitely a good shave, I want to shave with my cartridge soon to compare especially since im paying alot more attention now than I was when I used it.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 201 ✭✭settings


    I read a good guide on how to make a proper soap lather last week and noticed it has helped me alot. Aside from today I rarely cut myself anymore and the lather looks better, thicker and does not 'fade' like it did before. Im sticking with astra blades for now until I feel I have become a compentent DE shaver:rolleyes:. I used a fresh blade today (after 3 uses of old one) and I got a very close shave but I also cut my neck trying a new technique/being careless. For some reason I went atg on second pass below my chin (which is the same direction as nose to ear-accross- i find it very stange shaving that way on my neck). I then tried to go S-N with a sharp 90 degree turn ATG to catch them by surprise:D.

    After my shave I cant really feel much stubble in most places (feeling for it against the grain) but I notice I have a shadow later on. I guess this was what I meant in my previous posts when I was talking about a closer shave. You see I can't remember having this when i shaved with my WS cart, or at least not so soon but I could be wrong. Maybe since I started DE shaving I just examine my hair growth so closely and pay attention to things I didn't pay attention to before. I should try a cart shave one of these days but I dont wanna waste a good shave on it ;)


  • Moderators, Society & Culture Moderators Posts: 9,689 Mod ✭✭✭✭stevenmu


    settings wrote: »
    I read a good guide on how to make a proper soap lather last week and noticed it has helped me alot.
    Any chance of a link? I was great at making a lather for the first month or two but have been very inconsistent lately.

    One tip I can offer for anyone with the Geo F Trumper Limes Skin Food, put a drop or two on the brush before making up the lather to get a super rich luxurient lather.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,920 ✭✭✭hitemfrank


    stevenmu wrote: »
    Any chance of a link? I was great at making a lather for the first month or two but have been very inconsistent lately.

    One tip I can offer for anyone with the Geo F Trumper Limes Skin Food, put a drop or two on the brush before making up the lather to get a super rich luxurient lather.

    I think that's to do with the glycerin in the GFT Skin Food. Addding gylcerin to soap or cream is something that can help generate lather.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 398 ✭✭Shaving.ie


    Mühle are set to release a newly designed open comb razor head tomorrow on their site. Their redesign of the closed comb proved to be a big hit and this looks like it might lie somewhere between that and the Merkur open comb in terms of aggressiveness.

    r41-open-comb-head__06539_zoom.jpg


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