Armed Polite Society
Main Forums => The Roundtable => Topic started by: GigaBuist on March 03, 2012, 11:22:00 PM
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Well, I'm a new convert. I ditched the 18 blade Mach42 stuff many years ago, switched to cheap two blade disposables for a few years, and I finally took the plunge back to the 1890's and got myself a double edged safety razor a couple of months ago.
The blades cost about 10 cents and in my two months of experience they last me about a week before I feel like replacing them. So, that's about $5 a year in blade costs. Granted, I did go back to using shaving cream, something I hadn't used in years, but I'll probably get away from doing that now that I know how to use it.
It's a little slower for daily shaving but if you skip a few days it doesn't clog up like a disposable does.
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I may have to do some hunting to find one. For the last ten or twenty years razors seem to have been made lawyer-proof. I can't get a close shave to save my life. I can't even cut myself.
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I'm also on the safety-razor-and-several-days-between-shaves routine. I have some ancient Gilette and use Feather blades.
I'm happy that it's currently acceptable to go around with a bit of stubble, even in fairly professional circles. I have a very tough beard, and keeping a close shave on a daily basis is really hard on my skin.
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I switched to a Merkur safety razor about a year ago. Years of problems with ingrown hairs cleared up in just a few days. I use Merkur blades. They don't stay sharp for more than 4-5 shaves, but they are cheap compared to cartridges.
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I solved all my razor problems the easy way 18 years ago, I just quit shaving.
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I solved all my razor problems the easy way 18 years ago, I just quit shaving.
Quitter.
=D
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Granted, I did go back to using shaving cream, something I hadn't used in years, but I'll probably get away from doing that now that I know how to use it.
Use something non-lathering like an oil or a regular gel. It doesn't gunk up the razor as much, and you don't accidentally end up leaving the house with a strip of foam that you missed.
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Quitter.
=D
As my manager said, when I told him I don't smoke: "No one likes a quitter." =)
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Wish I could go more than a couple of days without shaving. During normal periods of time I will go 2-3 weeks or so without shaving. This having to shave everyday crap gets old fast.
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I recently gave the DE razor another try. I'm using a Weishi DE razor in gunmetal (http://www.westcoastshaving.com/Weishi-Gunmetal-Butterfly-Double-Edge-Safety-Razor-in-Case_p_1194.html) with a Palmolive Shave Stick (http://www.westcoastshaving.com/Palmolive-for-Men-Classic-Shaving-Soap-Stick_p_676.html). The latter is a great discovery. You moisten your face, then rub the stick all over it like a glue stick. Then, you use your wet shave brush to work up a lather directly on your face. No cup full of soap or anything like that. The Palmolive soap develops a great, thick lather. Another benefit is that it makes for a great travel kit because, again, no soapy mugs to deal with.
The Weishi, while a cheap Chinese import, delivers a good shave and is very mild. It frequently is suggested as a first DE razor for noobs. I have to agree. I find shaving with it is actually gentler to my face than any multi-blade wonder razor (though the Palmolive is a big contributor to this).
The blades that come with the razor are ok, but I start getting razor burn at about the third use. The Feather blades mentioned by Zahc are great. I got a pack of them in a sampler I bought with the razor. I'm still trying out the different blades, but the Feather blades may be my go to blades.
Chris
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If someone needs on, I have a couple Gillette Fatboy razors laying around somewhere. Can post pics if needed.
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How much?
Chris
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The first "real" shave I ever had was courtesy of my dad's safety razor. I've bought into the hype of the 17 blade super razor ever since, and completely forgot about the old safety razor. I complained like crazy the last time I paid $50 for a pack of cartridges at Costco. I need to give the safety razor another go. I like Chris' link to the one with the neat little travel case.
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Ben, if you get the Weishi, it it from the link I provided and get their sampler pack of blades (make sure it's the one that includes Feather blades). The blades that come with the Weishi are mediocre and you'll want to try out others anyway. Also, I can't recommend the Palmolive soap stick enough. Great product! You'll need a brush with the soap stick though.
Here's how the stick works: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFNuV7vxZvA (FF to the 2:50 mark, that's where he demonstrates using a shave stick).
Chris
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I've been using a 1970s Gillette safety razor for years. I also had a huge bag of Wilkinson blades I bought about ten years ago when I came across them at $0.69 a pack. I finally ran out of them last year and since then I've been having a hell of a time. It appears most stores don't carry the standard double edge blades any more. The ones that do have them at $4 a pack, which is ridiculous. I bought some double-blade disposables and I am about to toss them. They suck. I actually grew a full beard for a while because of this. I am using some three-bladed gizmo for now, but I really want my old double edge back.
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Order online in bulk. It won't be .69/pack, but it's close.
Chris
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Chris - thanks for that video link! That's really neat. I already have a brush that I use with my shaving mug (which I use when I'm not in a hurry, otherwise I've just been using gel). I think I'd like to give that stick a go.
My dad mostly uses an electric shaver these days because he's getting old and shaky, but I remember when he used a safety razor, all he ever did was use a plain old bar of soap that he would rub on his face. He'd then just wet his hands and build up a lather that way. Don't know where he picked that up - maybe in Germany where he's from. Anyway, the stick technique looks very similar to his old "bar of soap" method. All nice and simple, and looks great for travel as well
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I bought a Merkuur razor about a year ago and use personna blades, about a dime apiece. I made the switch after Mach 3s changed; they used to last 6 shaves, now they're good for only 3! I splurge on Art of Shaving cream, but a $22 jar lasts 6 months. It feels and smells great and i actually like shaving now...
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Also, just starting out, the blade choices are through the roof.
High recommend westcoastshaving.com or other site offering blade sampler packs. Everyone's face is different and there are literally hundreds of blades to choose from, with at least a dozen or two that could be counted as common. Even the expensive ones are cheap compared to most cartridge razors.
Razors can almost always be found at the local flea market and there are several new productions ones. Locally you can even likely find one or two if you have a Sally Beauty Supply or something like that.
Oh, and check out badgerandblade.com
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I found that honing the cartridge-type blades on a couple of sheets of newsprint works pretty well. You vary the stroke direction and angle of the handle. Only hones on one side of the edge, but seems to work. You should have at least 5 or 6 sheets under it to provide some flexibility when gliding the razor over the newsprint. (Large black areas in the printing seem to be "sticky" to the razor.)
Without documentation or scientific experimentation, I'm pretty sure even a new cartridge honed this way shaves better than just taking it out of the pack and using it.
Still experimenting with this technique, though. Would like feedback if you actually try it, instead of merely dismissing it as piffle beforehand.
Cheer up. The ancients used bronze razors and olive oil.
Terry, 230RN
Quick and dirty illustration:
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Chris - thanks for that video link! That's really neat. I already have a brush that I use with my shaving mug (which I use when I'm not in a hurry, otherwise I've just been using gel). I think I'd like to give that stick a go.
My dad mostly uses an electric shaver these days because he's getting old and shaky, but I remember when he used a safety razor, all he ever did was use a plain old bar of soap that he would rub on his face. He'd then just wet his hands and build up a lather that way. Don't know where he picked that up - maybe in Germany where he's from. Anyway, the stick technique looks very similar to his old "bar of soap" method. All nice and simple, and looks great for travel as well
Interesting, my grandfather uses plain ol' bar soap in an old mug with a brush. BTW, the stick soaps for shaving tend to have lanolin or other moisturizers that aren't in regular bar soap. The lather I get from the Palmolive stick is super rich. I wish I had known about it while I was over in the UK recently, it's apparently dirt cheap there.
Lupinus, I got my first DE razor at a flea market. I scrubbed it real good and used it for a couple years.
230RN, I never thought to hone a cartridge razor. I might give that a try next time I find myself using one.
Chris
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Safety razors is nice.
I have a Merkur with Merkur blades. I will have to concur that they seem to wear out even a bit faster than the CVS brand blades I bought.
The shave is nice and easy on my skin tho. I have super sensitive skin and shaving with a cartridge equals bloody face even though I've never cut myself shaving.
Only a few red spots with the Merkur.
Sucks sharing a bathroom with a lady roommate, as the bathroom is small and there's not enough room to keep much of my stuff in there. A lot to lug around just to shave.
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BTW, the stick soaps for shaving tend to have lanolin or other moisturizers that aren't in regular bar soap.
And the oily stuff stays in the beard follicles and darkens your beard, I've noticed, so you may end up wirh a 1700 hrs shadow anyhow. Just like a wet spot on a shirt gets darker, 'cept the lanolin and other oils don't evaporate whereas the wet shirt does.
One thing I like about getting older is my beard turned grey instead of reddish, so it doesn't show as much if I forget neglect to shave.
Mabs, female roomates take up a lot of acreage in the bathroom, so I sympathize. Incidentally, I think you are referring to "razor burn," as opposed to straight-out toilet-paper-patch-worthy nicks and cuts.
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I started using facial soap and disposable triple blade stuff a few years back. The blades last me a few weeks so I spend very little over time. The bar soap, IMO, it better and easier than gel or cream for me and doesn't plug up the razor. A safety razor sounds pretty cool, but I figure I'll stick with what works.
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Just ordered the razor and shaving stick mtnbkr recommended. I also ordered the sampler pack of blades that includes both the Feathers, and the Personna red labels (which also got some good reviews).
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I hate shaving, but I do it.
It has to do with my poor coordination upon arising. I'm okay if everything is in it's place and in order.
I can't think and can hardly walk first thing in the morning, let alone use razors near my face.
It took a couple of years, but I finally splurged and bought an English badger brush for about 35 bucks.
Rinsed out and shaken dry after each use (4-5x week) it's outlasted 3 lesser brushes.
I store it "bristles up" on top of a cake of bay rum soap in a blue porcelain tin camping cup.
http://www.colconkproducts.com/
It takes a few tries to get the lather right.
Just a few drops of water is all you need - if you get too much water in there, just dump out the slop in the sink and start again.
When I limit myself to two razor pulls (one each side of the blade) between a rinse, with no pulls over a spot where there's not lather, I get NO razor burn
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Yes, I'm familiar with razor burn. I went from only being able to shave once every two weeks with cartridges to being able to shave whenever with the safety razor. Razor burn for me was so bad my face looked like it bled from every pore. Not so with the Merkur. Just a bit of red on the lower portions of my neck that goes away after a couple hours usually.
Pro tip: Get an Alum block, they're amazing.
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I started using shampoo, with a cartridge razor, several months ago. The main reason was the absence of foam, which allowed me to see what I was doing.
I usually just shave it dry now. Uncomfortable, but quick and convenient.
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These days I am most often bearded and only trim the neck line with electric shears but will seasonally trim back to a more manageable beard. My career path has been non-traditional and I have always managed to keep a beard at work.
When I need a razor I use an older Gillette ball tip safety razor. It was the cheapest opening bid on ebay at the time and I won it not knowing anything but it turned out to be a very good choice. I read that it is one of the more gentle double edged razors. My beard is coarse and patchy from a lifetime of acne scarring. The coverage is not dense but the hair itself is thick, curly and red. There's not so much red up top now that I'm working my way to middle age. My hair also grows in a random swirl pattern and I have to change the direction of my stroke every pass. Although slow growing my beard will turn a brand new disposable razor into junk on the 3rd light trim. The only blades I could source locally for a few years were Personna and they worked so well that I never thought about changing. More than a year ago that store switched them out for Wilkinson blades which are inferior. They have about half the life that Personna blades did for me. My skin is exceptionally insensitive and I usually shave with only water or single pump of whatever hand lotion my girlfriend left laying around. When my current supply of Wilkinson blades run out I'll be placing an order for something else.
I made many attempts with a straight razor but no matter how much I sharpened, stropped, steamed, lathered and prepped it just wouldn't work. An expensive razor may have made the difference but it was obvious that the straight razor was too far back in convenience to be worth it, no matter what the cool factor. All shaving is bad for my complexion so I basically give it up half the year just to keep the acne down. No one ever warned me that I could be fighting hair loss, greying and acne at the same time. It is definitely not the part of youth I wanted to hang on to for so long.
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How close of a shave do you get with a safety razor? I've never been able to get a close shave from a cartridge or disposable razor. Even right after I shave you can see a bit of a shadow, and feel a tiny bit of bristle.
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Quitter.
=D
It's not so much that I quite shaving, more like I started maintaining a beard.
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Got a Merkur adjustable razor, with a decent supply of Merkur blades. Then I bought a bulk pack of Derby blades.
Derby's stay sharper longer. They're also cheaper. I can stretch the Derby's two weeks, the Merkur's only one.
Bought two of the 100-pack boxes. When I shave every day, I use a blade a week - so I'm good until about 2016.
I don't know that DE razors are better than the multi blade deals, but they are cheaper in the long run. A good brush and good soap helps a lot, too.
I always found myself using the cartridge razors way too long, since they cost so much. The DE blades are cheap, so I toss them with no hesitation.
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How close of a shave do you get with a safety razor?
Depends on the razor/blade combo. Some razors are more aggressive than others, including the adjustable. A Gillette fatboy for instance is generally considered pretty mild along it's entire range.
But generally speaking, you can get a very close shave with a safety razor, for most people more so than a cartridge razor. The difference is that a good shave with a safety razor takes some practice and technique. Whereas you can hand just about any idiot a cartridge razor and they can shave with it without to much hassle.
In all honesty I use both, depending what mood and if I'm in a hurry.
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I shave my head and face every day in the shower. I discovered to my chagrin that my head has too many bumps for a safe shave using a safety razor. On the suggestion of some of the head shaving websites, I started using a Schick Quattro for women along with shaving oil. This gives me the closest shave ever with a minimum of cuts. After testing, I can get acceptable shaves at up to a month of use. I toss and replace the razor every two weeks: on payday so it is easy to remember.
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Hmm..got to try these at some point, but a product recommendation
Lush "shave the males" shaving cream (no lather)
Tend skin aftershave.
I ap have super sensitive skin, and the combination of the two effectively eliminates all razor burn.
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I made the switch after Mach 3s changed; they used to last 6 shaves, now they're good for only 3! I splurge on Art of Shaving cream, but a $22 jar lasts 6 months. It feels and smells great and i actually like shaving now...
Only 3-6 shaves out of a Mach 3? Wow.
I tend to shave twice a week because more than that isn't comfortable and less than that means a full beard. I usually get several months out of my Mach 3 cartridges. I don't use shaving creams or oils - just hot water in the shower, and do everything wrong when it comes to keeping the razor in shape (i.e., I rinse but don't dry it after use, I store it in the shower, never do anything to hone the edge, etc.).
When I run out of blades for the Mach 3, I might try a safety razor, though.
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I shave my head and face every day in the shower.
Same here.
I discovered to my chagrin that my head has too many bumps for a safe shave using a safety razor.
Yep.
I started using a Schick Quattro for women along with shaving oil.
I use the MEN's Quattro. Sometimes just lathering up with soap, sometimes with good ole Barbasol.
This gives me the closest shave ever with a minimum of cuts.
Yep again. A double blade cartridge will leave nicks. I shudder to think what a single edge safety razor would do to my scalp. :'(
I toss and replace the razor every two weeks: on payday so it is easy to remember.
I change the cartridge on the same schedule.
MillCreek... we're bonding! :-*
DD =D
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For cartridge razors my all time LEAST favorite is the Schick Quattro.
Ironically, the cartridge razor I like the best and use when I don't feel like using the safety razor, is the Schick Hydro 5. For anyone that wants a cartridge razor I think it's the best performing.
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DD, I noticed a perceptible difference between the men's and women's Quattro. I tried both. In eyeballing both razors, the women's model seemed to have a less acute angle between the handle and skin contact. For lack of a better word, the blade head seemed to be flatter in contacting the area to be shaved. This gave me lesser cuts and nicks than the men's model when using it on my head. No difference on the face and neck.
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In eyeballing both razors, the women's model seemed to have a less acute angle between the handle and skin contact.
Innerestin'! So, you're saying the angle between the line tangent to the point of contact at the scalp and the razor handle was less with the men's model? It seems to me (I hate that phrase!*) that I have to hold the handle more perpendicular to my scalp than I would like with the men's model. Not enough that it makes me want to ditch it and go hunting for another brand, but enough that I know to raise the handle some to get the contact I want. I can't imagine having to raise the handle even farther with the women's model.
DD
*"It seems to me" is a line that is often pompously/arrogantly uttered before a statement that is not founded in fact, but more on unicorn farts and wishing well pennies. e.g. "It seems to me that if we just practiced some common sense gun laws (outlaw them all!) our murder rates would necessarily plummet."
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I've never used the women's Quattro but for the past five years or so I've been using the Venus III. The cartridges are ridiculously expensive, but I have never cut my legs shaving like I did with disposables in the past. DD & Millcreek, you might give it a shot if the Quattro ever disappoints.
On the other hand, if there was a cheaper way to shave my legs without slicing myself to ribbons I'd be interested to hear it.
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If you dare wear short shorts...
http://www.naircare.com/
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On the other hand, if there was a cheaper way to shave my legs without slicing myself to ribbons I'd be interested to hear it.
Ask for volunteers. Require them to supply all necessities.
Profit.
DD
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I've never used the women's Quattro but for the past five years or so I've been using the Venus III. The cartridges are ridiculously expensive, but I have never cut my legs shaving like I did with disposables in the past. DD & Millcreek, you might give it a shot if the Quattro ever disappoints.
On the other hand, if there was a cheaper way to shave my legs without slicing myself to ribbons I'd be interested to hear it.
Gillette made several razors for the ladies. In several colors, long handles and mild. You to can shave for pennies.
http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/Gillette_Lady_Gillette
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I was running out of multi-blade cartridges and unhappy about their replacement price, when I came across this thread. I did not even know that old-style safety razors were still available.
In any case, after reading lots of reviews, I placed an order. Within the next week, I should take delivery of a new Merkur and enough Feather blades to last for a good long time.
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Gillette made several razors for the ladies. In several colors, long handles and mild. You to can shave for pennies.
http://wiki.badgerandblade.com/Gillette_Lady_Gillette
The pictures don't show up. Is it my computer or the link?
But wait! If I change the way I shave my legs based on what a bunch of men advise, I'll have to turn in my girl card!
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Haz Merkur Futur adjustable safety razor ($70?), for about 2+ years now I believe. Razor irritation WAY down vs. shaving with the bank-'o-blades disposable cartridges, often closer/cleaner shave as well (if I do my part - otherwise I'm still stubbly). I take longer to shave now than I used to, in part because I mix up foam in a big-ol' latte mug - $3.99 from Bed Bath & Beyond - from one of Taylor of Old Bond Street's shaving cream tubs using a badger-hair brush.
Blades currently in use: I'm less than a third of the way through a megapack of bargain blades from Amazon, 7 A.M. brand, which work surprisingly well for something like $16/100 blades. I replace the blades between 5-7 uses, which actually works out to about every 2 weeks for me. Yes, I grow facial hair slowly. Wilkinson and Merkur blades were nice, CVS' brand was tolerable but inferior for premium price.
Regular badger-hair brush from Amazon, Tweezerman brand IIRC, cost like $11. It and the razor hang from a Col. Conk's 2-pc stand ($50, but got it for Christmas) on my sink. You can spend more for a regular or silver-tip badger brush, and maybe it's worth it - I don't know. Mine's lasted 2 years so far. It sheds a little, and I'm probably getting close to replacement time - but what a value! Will almost certainly get another of these to replace it (might get extras for my downstairs bedroom, where I keep some extra shaving stuff for when I need to sleep down there, and my travel shaving kit, since they're so cheap).
Shaving cream - favorite is Taylor's Sandalwood, though their Avocado is nice too; at one point I picked up a sampler pack from The Shave Den, and I liked several other kinds (Tabac had a VERY pleasing scent and lathered exceptionally well but is $30 for a tub; Taylor's run about $13 for the same size, which lasts a few months and lathers about as well) but Taylor's is my go-to brand. Tub fits neatly inside the latte mug on my counter.
I used Art Of Shaving ($22 for 2.5oz? bottle) or King Of Shaves ($6.99 for teeny-tiny bottle, but you only need a couple of drops for your whole face) shaving oil for a while, and noticed that it helped reduce razor burn even under shaving cream, but have since found that baby oil, at a tenth the price, is equally good for that purpose. Have heard of people using olive oil for the same purpose.
Aftershave - I often do without. When I want to smell nice for a special occasion, I like Pinaud Clubman. Alcohol-based, so it stings, but the sting wears off fast and the scent is nice without being overwhelming. $7 for a several-ounce bottle.
Of course I have a styptic stick and alum block for when I screw up by the numbers and cut or razor-burn myself. They've seen little use since I stopped trying to do the straight-razor thing... :lol:
Left-over Dovo Shavette, which is a cartridge-based "straight razor". Single-edge blade goes in a folding plastic insert (3 colors for 3 different lengths of blades), and you use it like a regular straight razor. I'm pretty well convinced that if I were foolish enough to try and use it on my throat, my wife would find me bled out on the floor in the bathroom looking like Sweeny Todd had been at me. I've tried it on the flatter portions of my face, and can't keep from cutting myself frequently and often. I'll stick with my Futur, thanks very much.
I also have most of a shaving (soap) stick from Arko, a Turkish brand, left which I store in the latte mug on top of the Taylor's tub normally. As was previously noted, you wet your face, rub the stick all over your face, and lather it up right on your face with a brush. $2, so I'll be getting another couple of these for travel use (TSA-permitted, supposedly) and backup at home, in case I forget to order my regular stuff and run out. Clogs my razor worse than the Taylor's, though.
In my experience, the Art of Shaving stuff is nice, but overpriced - their kits are like $100 for preshave oil, shaving cream, aftershave balm, and a brush. They smell nice and work well, don't get me wrong, but you don't need to spend that much to get a shave at least as good.
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On the other hand, if there was a cheaper way to shave my legs without slicing myself to ribbons I'd be interested to hear it.
A safety razor can be made to work just fine if you are careful about it. I shaved my legs with one on a few occasions
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The mtnbkr recommended Weishi razor and accessories came in today. The razor has heft and is surprisingly well made for an $18 (with case) item. I'll be giving it a whirl tomorrow morning.
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A safety razor can be made to work just fine if you are careful about it. I shaved my legs with one on a few occasions
If I can clean up my wedding tackle with one legs shouldn't be any problem.
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If I can clean up my wedding tackle with one legs shouldn't be any problem.
I'm thinkin' that's more information than any of us here needed, Giga.
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Had to share the box my razor came in, because it is kinda comical. :)
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7180%2F6963425519_696fd5e3cd.jpg&hash=b4d5d56d0cdecc96e090353c1b7d29537f2646be)
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If homeland security is monitoring this site, it will have a hard time proving a threat. We're talkin' shaving heads, legs, and wedding tackle on a gun board. ???
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No update from Ben, I wonder if he slit his throat and is in the hospital. ;)
Chris
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No update from Ben, I wonder if he slit his throat and is in the hospital. ;)
Chris
Paging MrsSmith, please pick up the red courtesy phone...... :lol:
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No update from Ben, I wonder if he slit his throat and is in the hospital. ;)
Chris
Ha! :laugh:
Nope, it all came back to me rather quickly. Not even a nick. I just used a Derby blade today. I'll try the Feather next, then you can wonder if I slit my throat. :)
I also really like the shaving stick. I'm replacing the "travel size" shaving cream can in my travel kit with it. I might see about getting one of those "stores in its handle" travel brushes to go with it.
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Had to share the box my razor came in, because it is kinda comical. :)
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm8.staticflickr.com%2F7180%2F6963425519_696fd5e3cd.jpg&hash=b4d5d56d0cdecc96e090353c1b7d29537f2646be)
Thank you, sir. That is awesome. I mean, it's inimitable.
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Cool. I'm going to build a travel kit with the Weishi and shave stick as well. I just need to get a better travel brush.
I'm going back to the UK in April or early May. I've heard the Palmolive sticks are cheap there, something like 50pence. I may stock up. :D
Customs Agent: Anything to declare
Me: Yes, 100 Palmolive Shaving sticks
Customs Agent: ??? :police:
Me: :facepalm:
:D
Chris
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BTW, as you've noticed, the shave stick doesn't have a case or anything. I've seen folks store them in medicine bottles. The more expensive versions have some sort of plastic case or push up from a holder like a glue stick or giant chapstick. Those tend to be $10+ though.
Chris
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BTW, as you've noticed, the shave stick doesn't have a case or anything. I've seen folks store them in medicine bottles. The more expensive versions have some sort of plastic case or push up from a holder like a glue stick or giant chapstick. Those tend to be $10+ though.
Chris
The medicine bottle is a great idea. Spending ten bucks for a fancy integral holder somehow destroys the simplicity of the shaving stick for me.
I was thinking of getting some of these just for the nostalgic wrapper. :)
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51SY3xJ%252BA0L._SS400_.jpg&hash=d941af48c8ccae09694b576732e5fe37513cb290)
http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Soap-Stick/dp/B002A5OLHQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1331226092&sr=1-1
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My Pop had a clever little double-edged razor stropper similar to this:
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.ebayimg.com%2Ft%2FAntique-PERMEDGE-Rotary-Stropper-Double-Edge-Razor-Blade-Sharpener-%2F00%2Fs%2FNzY4WDEwMjQ%3D%2F%24%28KGrHqR%2C%21hgE6Z%2BzQ0RGBOsw%21-Oegw%7E%7E60_35.JPG&hash=b819b3f50bd1eb2eb717a11b0660e5042a8cac31)
He passed away when I was 14 and I used that thing for years until the strops and gears wore out. You inserted the double-edged razor blade in from the side, and turned the crank and it would strop one pair of edges, then flip the blade over and strop the other two. I also used his flip-top open razor handle for years even though the stropper thingie was worn out.
Fascinating little mechanism. Tell you the truth, if I could get another one of these, I'd probably go back to double-edged safety razor shaving.
As I mentioned in the last shaving thread, once he tried the safety razor, he never went back to using a straight razor.
Terry, 230RN
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BTW, as you've noticed, the shave stick doesn't have a case or anything. I've seen folks store them in medicine bottles. The more expensive versions have some sort of plastic case or push up from a holder like a glue stick or giant chapstick. Those tend to be $10+ though.
Chris
Yup - mine came in a foil-paper wrapper, which is... somewhat degraded by now. That medicine bottle thing is a great idea, will have to steal that. I certainly have enough of those bottles. :facepalm:
Maybe I should use another one to make a travel tube for a shaving brush, as well.
The medicine bottle is a great idea. Spending ten bucks for a fancy integral holder somehow destroys the simplicity of the shaving stick for me.
I was thinking of getting some of these just for the nostalgic wrapper. :)
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fecx.images-amazon.com%2Fimages%2FI%2F51SY3xJ%252BA0L._SS400_.jpg&hash=d941af48c8ccae09694b576732e5fe37513cb290)
http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Soap-Stick/dp/B002A5OLHQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=hpc&ie=UTF8&qid=1331226092&sr=1-1
That's the one I have. Good stuff - you'll like it.
Looks like that's $5.75 for a single stick - you can get a 12-pack + 3 free sticks from the same seller (Shaving Factory) for $25+free shipping - http://www.amazon.com/Arko-Shaving-Soap-Stick-free/dp/B002UBOEW2/ref=pd_sbs_hpc_2
All the shave sticks you'll ever need, or at least for a good long while. Not vegan friendly, as noted in the comments (uses animal tallow) - but IIRC that's not an issue for anyone here anyways.
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My Pop had a clever little double-edged razor stropper similar to this:
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.ebayimg.com%2Ft%2FAntique-PERMEDGE-Rotary-Stropper-Double-Edge-Razor-Blade-Sharpener-%2F00%2Fs%2FNzY4WDEwMjQ%3D%2F%24%28KGrHqR%2C%21hgE6Z%2BzQ0RGBOsw%21-Oegw%7E%7E60_35.JPG&hash=b819b3f50bd1eb2eb717a11b0660e5042a8cac31)
He passed away when I was 14 and I used that thing for years until the strops and gears wore out. You inserted the double-edged razor blade in from the side, and turned the crank and it would strop one pair of edges, then flip the blade over and strop the other two. I also used his flip-top open razor handle for years even though the stropper thingie was worn out.
Fascinating little mechanism. Tell you the truth, if I could get another one of these, I'd probably go back to double-edged safety razor shaving.
As I mentioned in the last shaving thread, once he tried the safety razor, he never went back to using a straight razor.
Terry, 230RN
My grandmother had one of those from her father...I was supposed to have gotten it when she passed, but my #£€£¥ing extended family lost it.
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If homeland security is monitoring this site, it will have a hard time proving a threat. We're talkin' shaving heads, legs, and wedding tackle on a gun board. ???
Shhhh! Don't blow our cover!
Paging MrsSmith, please pick up the red courtesy phone...... :lol:
There will be no throat slitting on my watch.
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When the hair on my (monkey)leg was in full in my teens and early twenties, it was as thick as any guy's beard, and went from just above my ankle to mid-thigh. I tried shaving it a few times with a double-edge shaver, but I went through a couple of blades each time. It's was probably the equivalent of shaving off four or five full beards at once.
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When the hair on my (monkey)leg was in full in my teens and early twenties, it was as thick as any guy's beard, and went from just above my ankle to mid-thigh. I tried shaving it a few times with a double-edge shaver, but I went through a couple of blades each time. It's was probably the equivalent of shaving off four or five full beards at once.
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1.kym-cdn.com%2Fentries%2Ficons%2Foriginal%2F000%2F005%2F545%2FOpoQQ.jpg&hash=cd00185be568b4def5828af54fedd5e6395dd213)
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(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1.kym-cdn.com%2Fentries%2Ficons%2Foriginal%2F000%2F005%2F545%2FOpoQQ.jpg&hash=cd00185be568b4def5828af54fedd5e6395dd213)
I don't know why, but this is giving me a laughing fit. :laugh:
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Well I don't know why either Ben, but I can assure you it isn't due to any similarities between Monkeyleg's legs and mine!
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Well I don't know why either Ben, but I can assure you it isn't due to any similarities between Monkeyleg's legs and mine!
I wouldn't think so. As for Ben, he's weird.
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My brother had one of the first electric razors.
It had a full 110VAC motor in it and you plugged it directly into the wall (no "ice cube" power supply), but it was before self-starting shaded-pole motors, so you had to sort of kick-start it.
There was a little red wheel sticking out of the side which was sprung away from the motor shaft. To start it, you pushed in the wheel so it would clutch with the motor shaft and you rotated it briskly with your thumb to get the motor going. It would run in either direction.
He got pretty good at starting it with just a quick flick of the wrist, so the armature would stay in one position relative to the stator and get itself going that way.
I don't recall the brand.
Sorry about all the antiqu-ey stuff, but when I think back of all the items (including toys) I had which are probably worth big bucks nowadays...
But I've moved something like 15 times since we sold the "ancestral home," and it was impossible to keep all that Junque.
Terry, 230RN
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Sorry about all the antiqu-ey stuff, but when I think back of all the items (including toys) I had which are probably worth big bucks nowadays...
But I've moved something like 15 times since we sold the "ancestral home," and it was impossible to keep all that Junque.
Terry, 230RN
Don't apologize, tell us more. That razor stropper is pretty cool. I would never have guessed such a thing existed. There's just something neat about old stuff like that. You can see that it was all built with care and made to last.
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Who's the black-and-white dude with the facial hair?
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Who's the black-and-white dude with the facial hair?
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Falltheragefaces.com%2Fimg%2Ffaces%2Flarge%2Fmisc-jackie-chan-l.png&hash=574a761290ca927ba4b75d2240ef548068595ac1)
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I don't know either, but that one ^ looks like he's about to surrender.
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Explanation (http://knowyourmeme.com/memes/are-you-serious-face-seriously)
Chris
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Who's the black-and-white dude with the facial hair?
Looks kind of like Danny McBride.
Second one is Jackie Chan.
Had no idea it was a meme.
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When I look at tutorials for the DESR on youtube, all these guys are making 2, 3, 4 passes with the razor.
WTH is this all about? OCD? DESR can't shave as close?
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OCD and/or the ability to make multiple passes without razor burn.
I've found the first pass is as close as a cartridge razor. However, because it isn't as prone to causing razor burn, I can make 1-2 more passes, getting much closer shaves. If I want the closest shave, I'll do two passes with the grain, then a final pass perpendicular to the grain. If I did even two passes with a multiblade cartridge razor, I'd get razor burn.
The first pass is enough, but getting that "Baby butt smooth" shave is a novelty for me, so I frequently do the 2-3 pass thing even if it isn't necessary.
Chris
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When I look at tutorials for the DESR on youtube, all these guys are making 2, 3, 4 passes with the razor.
WTH is this all about? OCD? DESR can't shave as close?
It can shave just as close, and for most is can shave closer. But that requires technique, one of which is the concept of multiple passes. Pass one with the grain of the beard, pass two is across the grain of the beard. This, and probably just the one for most people, will get you a reasonably close shave and is where I usually stop. Three or four gets into across the grain from another direction and/or against the grain of the beard. The reason for this is that you get a more comfortable shave by gradual reduction of the beard on each pass, lathering between passes to maintain the lubrication offered by the lather and not shaving over the same area twice on the same pass. You can cheat a bit, and I often do when I'm in a hurry, but it's better doing it with multiple passes.
If you are watching the videos on youtube, I highly recommend Mantic59. His series is probably the most informative and best done on there.
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You are all metrosexuals.
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You are all metrosexuals.
Metrosexuals = people who are sexually attracted to cities?
Fistful shaves with an 18th century plow blade.
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Metrosexuals = people who are sexually attracted to cities?
Fistful shaves with an 18th century plow blade.
Which would explain the bristles in his avatar. :laugh:
My wife prefers me clean shaven. I find it useful to comply with this preference.
And there's nothing wrong with doing so in the most effective and comfortable manner, either.
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Just teasin', guys.
Ack-shally Monkeyleg, "metro" means mother. Methinks the person who coined that neologism was unaware of that.
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Where did you find that? I don't find "mother" in any dictionaries.
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I found this on Gentlemint.com (<shakes fist at Ben>) today: Weber Razor, made in the USA (http://www.weberrazor.com/). I may pick one up just to support the company. At $20, they're pretty inexpensive.
Chris
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Nice find Chris! I was about to pull the trigger on the Engrish packaged ChiComm razor, but instead I think I will order that one...
Well... Turns out that the HANDLE is $20... The razor itself is sold out. Found a review that lists the price of the whole razor is $55....
Still might jump on it, as the reviews are very positive on the razor.
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Oh, completely missed that it was just the handle for $20.
Chris
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I found this on Gentlemint.com (<shakes fist at Ben>) today: Weber Razor, made in the USA (http://www.weberrazor.com/). I may pick one up just to support the company. At $20, they're pretty inexpensive.
Chris
That's a nice looking razor! Plus my devious plan of having Chris spend all hist time looking for the best things on Gentlemint so I don't have to is working out perfectly. :laugh:
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I received my 100 pack of Derby blades last night. Tried one out this morning and I can give them a thumbs up. I don't even see any point in trying another brand, for me, at this point because I'm that happy with them.
And it'll take me nearly two years to use these up. Got them from Amazon for $9.90.
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You are all metrosexuals.
Perhaps if we were using women's shaving products, and on more than our beards. You will be hard-pressed to stick us with the metrosexual label though, for shaving like your grandpa (or in my case, because I'm an old codger, going back to how I started out shaving). Unless your grandpa is a metrosexual. :P :laugh:
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Where did you find that? I don't find "mother" in any dictionaries.
Here:
http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=metropolitan
http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/metropolis
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metropolis
Some sources say that it means uterus:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/metro
Perhaps if we were using women's shaving products, and on more than our beards. You will be hard-pressed to stick us with the metrosexual label though, for shaving like your grandpa (or in my case, because I'm an old codger, going back to how I started out shaving). Unless your grandpa is a metrosexual. :P :laugh:
But your grandpa didn't get together with other metrosexuals on the internet to coo over their new razors, discuss shaving techniques, and brag about their baby-smooth faces. :P
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But your grandpa didn't get together with other metrosexuals on the internet to coo over their new razors, discuss shaving techniques, and brag about their baby-smooth faces. :P
That's only because there was no Internet. What do you think all those old-timers that used to sit on rocking chairs in front of the general store used to talk about? (Somehow this should translate into a Far Side cartoon)
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(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gunshopfinder.com%2Ffarside.jpg&hash=59fb9eca41711a22ae75dc0e85105bab239e6c39)
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There will be no throat slitting on my watch.
What about gnawing off his own arm?....is that acceptable?.....
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Took the plunge, ordered the weishi razor and palmolive stick as well as the sampler pack, a brush, and a small alum block for after the shave...
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What about gnawing off his own arm?....is that acceptable?.....
Seeker_two that is not nice.
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Seeker_two that is not nice.
Never said I was nice.....snarky & excessively cute, perhaps.....but never nice....
=D
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Hey, how are you guys disposing of your old blades? I seem to recall back when I was first using a DE, the blade packs came with a little "storage area" on the bottom for old blades, then you just threw the whole shootin' match of blades and container away. None of the new blade packages I ordered have that.
Also, total tangent, but I got some of that Arko soap just for kicks and because of the neat label and tried some this morning. You know that whole olfactory - memory link? Kicked in full bore when I used the soap. I had a vivid image from when I was a little kid and my dad would let me "shave" with him. He would lather up my face and then take the blade out of his razor and let me shave with it. That Arko soap smells exactly like the bar soap he used for shaving when I was a little kid. I had totally forgotten about it until i used the soap stick this morning. Made me smile. :)
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Yeah a lot of blades no longer have the little slot in the back. In fact, a lot of the better blades just come in a little cardboard box with each blade individually wrapped in paper.
Next time you're at the supermarket pick up a can of cheap stock/broth. Use a chef's knife you don't care about, or something similar, and whack a slot of appropriate size in the top of the can. Drain the broth out, remove the wrapper from the outside, and rinse it out well with hot water. Making the slot a tad oversized helps. Instant blade bank for about 60 cents...and will probably hold darn near several years worth of blades. If you're feeling the need to make it less silvery can ugly you can hit it with some spray paint.
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I throw mine in my kids' rooms. They're used, they aren't that sharp anymore.
Chris
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I wrap the old blade in the new blade's wrapper and walk it out to the kitchen trash can but I'm new at this.
I like the idea of using an empty broth can.
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The Merkur blades have a receptacle on their box. The Derby's don't, so I just trash them.
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I bought my safety razor in an antique shop. Best $1.75 I've ever spent. I have noticed that the blades make a big difference though, Wiltshire Stay Sharps are the best I've found so far. I usually get about 10-12 shaves before I change blades. That's compared to the 2 shaves I got out of the A&P brand my girlfriend picked up for me...
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I have seen slots in the backs of recess-mounted medicine cabinets. I am told that this was for dropping the used blades into the wall.
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Hey, how are you guys disposing of your old blades? I seem to recall back when I was first using a DE, the blade packs came with a little "storage area" on the bottom for old blades, then you just threw the whole shootin' match of blades and container away. None of the new blade packages I ordered have that.
Made myself a blade bank. Take a can (like canned corn or peas or soup or whatever), open it up - you really want one of those side-cutting can openers for this, don't know if you could do it with a regular can opener - and drain and wash it. While you've got it open, cut a narrow slit in the top, then superglue or epoxy it back on. Insert used blades through the slit on top. When full, tape over the slot and throw it away, and make yourself a new one. Dirt cheap, and a heckuva lot safer than dropping them through a slit in the medicine cabinet into the wall :O
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I have seen slots in the backs of recess-mounted medicine cabinets. I am told that this was for dropping the used blades into the wall.
Worst invention ever.
Speaking from experience as a general contractor...you know what you DON'T want to find in a wall you are reaching into? RUSTY GORAM RAZOR BLADES!
Please, dispose properly.
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Worst invention ever.
Speaking from experience as a general contractor...you know what you DON'T want to find in a wall you are reaching into? RUSTY GORAM RAZOR BLADES!
Please, dispose properly.
Yep, like embedding on end in the top of wooden privacy fences.
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I was going to make a remark about the blades in the wall being good ammo for a lawsuit from an electrician, carpenter, etc.
Yep, like embedding on end in the top of wooden privacy fences.
You definitely have an active mind. ;)
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You definitely have an active mind. ;)
Nobody, but nobody hops "Lockjaw" roo_ster's fence.
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Nobody, but nobody hops "Lockjaw" roo_ster's fence.
More than once, anyway. And you just know how fast the blades rust out there in the environment.
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When we did bathroom renovations on the house I grew up in, built in the late 1800s early 1900s, there were 75 years of rusted razor blades in the wall pocket. Nasty as *expletive deleted*it.
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When we did bathroom renovations on the house I grew up in, built in the late 1800s early 1900s, there were 75 years of rusted razor blades in the wall pocket. Nasty as *expletive deleted*.
Yup, been there' shuddered at that. It's horrifying.
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So the big white truck o' happiness just dropped off my new razor and assorted sundries... Unfortunately, I'm at work, so I don't get to look at it all until tonight. Actually kinda excited, especially if this works better (i.e. less razor burn/ingrown hairs etc) than my usual cartridge razor. Will post pics tonight... Gotta see if my packaging has as bad of engrish as (was it Ben's) that was posted earlier...
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When we did bathroom renovations on the house I grew up in, built in the late 1800s early 1900s, there were 75 years of rusted razor blades in the wall pocket. Nasty as *expletive deleted*.
We found the weirdest stuff in the walls doing our bathroom renovation. Weirdest was a child-sized rubber overshoe, the toe of which was filled with very small metal tack nails.
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So the big white truck o' happiness just dropped off my new razor and assorted sundries... Unfortunately, I'm at work, so I don't get to look at it all until tonight. Actually kinda excited, especially if this works better (i.e. less razor burn/ingrown hairs etc) than my usual cartridge razor. Will post pics tonight... Gotta see if my packaging has as bad of engrish as (was it Ben's) that was posted earlier...
Good luck. Just keep in mind the basic principles, and give it some time to get used to it. Some love it right away, for some there's a bit of a learning curve.
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We use empty larger vitamin bottles for sharps disposal for things like razor blades. Works well, tough plastic keeps it all in, child-proof cap keeps the wee one out of it.
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We use empty larger vitamin bottles for sharps disposal for things like razor blades. Works well, tough plastic keeps it all in, child-proof cap keeps the wee one out of it.
I like this idea! At least until I can get a true blade bank...
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I've got almost a year's worth of used blades in an Altoids tin...When it fills up I'll duct tape it shut and throw it away...
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I had an older house in Denver with one of those slots in the medicine cabinet, and since I used to do a lot of fixin' up, that was the first thing I thought of... the poor SOB (like me) who had to grope around down there to fix stuff.
Since I use double and single-edged blades for a couple of things, I "de-mil" them by running them over a piece of sandpaper or a file and then I cover them with 2" packing tape before chucking them in the trash.
I don't think this is a "production" process, because I don't use that many, but I haven't seen anybody mention dulling them up before discarding.
I just chuck the cartridge-type blades that I use for shaving. They don't seem as dangerous as the single and double-edged ones.
Terry, 230RN
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So...
First impressions are that the razor has a good heft, feels solid in your hand. Handle felt a little short to me at first, but I quickly got used to it.
As far as shaving with it, can't really give a fair opinion yet. Had a good week's growth, and it took some serious work to get that planed off... I will say that I was not impressed at all with the blades that came with the razor. Did half my face and then switched to one of the feather brand blades. Much nicer feel, and a much nicer shave...
Overall I think I'll like it. Really liked the palmolive shave stick. And I can't use scented aftershaves at work, so I got a RazoRock. It's an alum stick that is a natural styptic and antiseptic. So far it seems to be pretty good, no razor bumps and it stopped the bleeding on a couple of nicks almost instantly. Will opine further in a week or so...
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Oh my... What have I gotten myself into...
First, I shaved last night, and this morning it feels like it normally does right after I shave w/ the latest&greatest ultramachquantumgangenblader 2000... Very pleasantly surprised. Also, no razor rash/burn/bumps (they usually develop within 12 hours for me). Other than one nick that was a little bigger (was an ingrown hair that was raised up a little bit), the other couple of nicks have all pretty much disappeared, maybe a slight redness.
My problem is that I have started reading about "real shaving". And I may be hooked. I want to try all the different styles of razors. All the different blades. The creams. The soaps. The different brushes...
SOMEBODY HELP ME!!!!! :D
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Heh, I already went and bought this razor:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/3812028492/ref=oh_o00_s01_i00_details
Nearly twice as heavy as the Weishi, with the longer "barber pole" handle. I'm still glad I got the Weishi though, both from being able to get back into the razor type, and now having a compact razor that can stay in my travel kit.
I understand all the reviews etc., that recommend getting into DE shaving with a "forgiving" razor like the Weishi, but it turns out DE shaving is like riding a bicycle - it comes back pretty quickly. My only nicks have been on my ginormous adam's apple, which can get nicked no matter what razor I use.
I can better understand the "warnings" about learning how to use a DE razor given that probably 80% of the guys investigating it are young enough to have never used one, versus guys like me who are going back to one. I would feel pretty nervous about switching to a straight razor, having never ever used one.
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Also, how not to shave with a safety razor:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B34SfWdQHeg
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Also, how not to shave with a safety razor:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B34SfWdQHeg
"Sixth or seventh shave. Pretty successful." Yeah, if your idea of success is a bloody mess.
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How long do you DESR users take to shave? Do you need a mirror?
I ask because:
1. I use Gillette disposable 2-bladed deals with the slime strip, 1 razor/week at roughly $1/razor. These:
http://www.amazon.com/Gillette-CustomPlus-Disposable-Razors-Count/dp/B002ZWSOPE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1331837160&sr=8-4
2. I shave in the shower, no mirror.
3. I use bar soap for shave lather & lube. Sometimes apply with wash cloth.
4. Takes about 30-60 seconds of actual shaving, +30 seconds for lathering.
If a DESR is better, I might switch, but "better" includes time as a factor. I don't intend to make a ritual of it.
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How long do you DESR users take to shave? Do you need a mirror?
I'm usually not into getting a "smooth as a baby's bottom" shave. I usually don't even shave every day, though I've been doing so now just because getting back into the DE shaving thing has been fun.
If I'm shaving just to, "get 'er done" I can do it in a couple of minutes (about the same as with a cartridge razor for me). Shaving soap, whether in a mug or in stick, obviously takes a bit longer than a can of foam (but it sounds like you're not using canned stuff anyway). I shave at the sink with a mirror, but always have.
If you do the full traditional three pass thing, obviously that's gonna take a good but longer than one quick pass. Having tried it, it does get you baby bottom smooth. Personally, once the fun wears off, I'll likely rarely do the three pass thing. So long story longer, no real difference for me time-wise for normal shaving.
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How long do you DESR users take to shave? Do you need a mirror?
I ask because:
1. I use Gillette disposable 2-bladed deals with the slime strip, 1 razor/week at roughly $1/razor. These:
http://www.amazon.com/Gillette-CustomPlus-Disposable-Razors-Count/dp/B002ZWSOPE/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1331837160&sr=8-4
2. I shave in the shower, no mirror.
3. I use bar soap for shave lather & lube. Sometimes apply with wash cloth.
4. Takes about 30-60 seconds of actual shaving, +30 seconds for lathering.
If a DESR is better, I might switch, but "better" includes time as a factor. I don't intend to make a ritual of it.
I used to shave exactly like that (except I'd trim around my sideburn area and the spot directly under my nose in the mirror before hitting the shower).
It would take me about the same amount of time. However, I got nasty ingrown hairs, razor burn, and would sometimes cut the crap out of a mole.
If I lathered up in the front of the sink with shaving gel and take my time, it would run about 5min. I'd still get some ingrown hairs, but not as bad.
With DESR, shaving soap stick, and a brush, it takes 5-10 min, but no ingrown hairs, razor burn, or nicks.
It was never about time for me, but about the end result. That I don't feel like my face was hit with a cheese grater afterward is a huge reason I'm doing it this way.
Chris
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I used to shave exactly like that (except I'd trim around my sideburn area and the spot directly under my nose in the mirror before hitting the shower).
It would take me about the same amount of time. However, I got nasty ingrown hairs, razor burn, and would sometimes cut the crap out of a mole.
If I lathered up in the front of the sink with shaving gel and take my time, it would run about 5min. I'd still get some ingrown hairs, but not as bad.
With DESR, shaving soap stick, and a brush, it takes 5-10 min, but no ingrown hairs, razor burn, or nicks.
It was never about time for me, but about the end result. That I don't feel like my face was hit with a cheese grater afterward is a huge reason I'm doing it this way.
Chris
That was helpful.
Currently, I have no ill effects from shaving every day in the way I described.
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I shave in the shower, no mirror.
This I don't get. I switched to shampoo, and then nothing, simply because I can't see through shaving cream. It took too long to carefully apply the lather, avoiding any place I didn't want to shave over. Even if I wasn't shaving around a goatee, it would still be hard to avoid blemishes sticking up into the face-scape. ???
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How long can vary. I can shave in about five minutes using a canned shaving foam, and usually do two passes. My beard just grows in such a way one pass doesn't cut it even with a multi blade razor.
A full three pass shave with lather made with brush and mug takes anywhere from 10-15 minutes.
Not all canned goo is horrible. Canned proraso is actually really good (as is their tube intended for use with a brush..in fact it's my current favorite). Proraso can also be found in Bath and Body Works rebranded as C.O. Bigelow. Good old Barbasol is actually pretty good as well. Other than those though I avoid canned goo.
As for razors I own several but mainly use two depending what mood I'm in. A 1957 Superspeed which is, imo, just all around a great razor. Cost me three dollars are a flea market and a little elbow grease with an old toothbrush and tooth paste. Still in perfect working order and only a few minor blemishes. This is a great way to get razors cheap.
Other one I use regularly a Merkur Progess which is an adjustable razor. Really nice with good heft and the angle is quite enjoyable, if you watch the Mantic59 videos I recommended earlier it's one of his preferred razors and you'll notice it's a move vertical angle than a lot of razors.
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This I don't get. I switched to shampoo, and then nothing, simply because I can't see through shaving cream. It took too long to carefully apply the lather, avoiding any place I didn't want to shave over. Even if I wasn't shaving around a goatee, it would still be hard to avoid blemishes sticking up into the face-scape. ???
I know the layout of my face at this point in my life. No need to see what I can feel and recall.
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I'm usually not into getting a "smooth as a baby's bottom" shave. I usually don't even shave every day, blah blah blah blah,
Is that so?
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uh-oh
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Is that so?
Fair play is indicated here. Both parties should be on the same shaving schedule.
We are not, and I often suffer the heartbreak of BLS (bristly leg syndrome) as someone who will remain nameless rubs her sandpaper-like legs against mine.
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Is that so?
I thoight you said I looked ruggedly handsome with a few days of whiskers. That or "like a grizzled old miner".
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I thoight you said I looked ruggedly handsome with a few days of whiskers. That or "like a grizzled old miner".
You should say the exact same thing about her!
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Millcreek, in the warm climates we live in, there is no BLS going on here. And pride prohibits me from using leg hair (or lack of) as a bargaining/blackmail tool. :angel:
I thoight you said I looked ruggedly handsome with a few days of whiskers. That or "like a grizzled old miner".
You are kinda cute in a scruffy sorta way after a day or two, but I'd really prefer we not get to the grizzled old miner stage of things that often. I got over that whole "bad boy" thing a couple decades ago. :P Keep in mind though that I'm all soft and girly and that "smooth as a baby's butt" thing is going to get you a lot closer to my skin than three days of abrasive whiskers.
Your decision, of course.
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How long can vary. I can shave in about five minutes using a canned shaving foam, and usually do two passes. My beard just grows in such a way one pass doesn't cut it even with a multi blade razor.
A full three pass shave with lather made with brush and mug takes anywhere from 10-15 minutes.
Not all canned goo is horrible. Canned proraso is actually really good (as is their tube intended for use with a brush..in fact it's my current favorite). Proraso can also be found in Bath and Body Works rebranded as C.O. Bigelow. Good old Barbasol is actually pretty good as well. Other than those though I avoid canned goo.
As for razors I own several but mainly use two depending what mood I'm in. A 1957 Superspeed which is, imo, just all around a great razor. Cost me three dollars are a flea market and a little elbow grease with an old toothbrush and tooth paste. Still in perfect working order and only a few minor blemishes. This is a great way to get razors cheap.
Other one I use regularly a Merkur Progess which is an adjustable razor. Really nice with good heft and the angle is quite enjoyable, if you watch the Mantic59 videos I recommended earlier it's one of his preferred razors and you'll notice it's a move vertical angle than a lot of razors.
For canned stuff, Nivea and Aveeno both make stuff I like (sensitive-skin variety for each). Nivea is regularly available in major grocery stores, don't remember where the Aveeno came from.
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I know the layout of my face at this point in my life.
I guess that's what happens when you spend so much time admiring yourself in the mirror. Freakin' metrosexuals... ;/ :P
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Freakin' metrosexuals...
What's with you and city-humpers lately?
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Tattaglia is a metrosexual. :P
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For canned stuff, Nivea and Aveeno both make stuff I like (sensitive-skin variety for each). Nivea is regularly available in major grocery stores, don't remember where the Aveeno came from.
I used to use those, but still had issues. I switched to lush's updated men's shave lotion (prince) and have had nothing but good luck. (still using tend skin as an aftershave)
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Well, I've had my first casualty with a safety razor....
Was shaving this morning with a brand new Red Personna blade... And was *really* liking the feel of it. Much smoother than any of the blades I've tried so far in the sampler from West Coast Shaving.... Was almost done with the first pass, when I pushed with a little too much pressure as I was going over a mole on my cheekbone....
Whoopsie...
I do have to say though, the RazoRock stopped the bleeding pretty friggin' impressively...
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The Red Personna is what I have in now and has been the best for me so far out of that sample pack. I'm about ready to swap that one out and go to the Feather next.
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Yeah, I was really enjoying it too, actually. And even after that happened, I got the bleeding stopped with the RazoRock and lathered back up for the second pass. Just avoided that spot is all.
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Personally, I like the Astra and blue Gillette 7 o'clock from St. Petersburg.
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Weirdest was a child-sized rubber overshoe, the toe of which was filled with very small metal tack nails.
IMO, the most inexplicable was what we found in grandma's fridge after she died; mom remembers that Garrett snuff can being on the door shelf at least 30 years before, but nobody had ever bothered to see what was in it. It was an empty wooden thread spool. No clue why it was in the refrigerator for decades.
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I use the Blue package Personna, wonder what the difference is?
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Usually where they are made and/or differences in the blade itself (angle of the grind, smoothness, finishing or metal, etc.)
Gillette 7 o'clock is a great example as there are a ton of them and, while similar, they are all a bit different.
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Well, it has been a bit more than a month since I started with DE razors (actually, restarted since I first used them in college nearly 20 years ago).
I've since learned my brother is a wet shaving/DE razor aficionado, so he's been sending me razors, creams, etc to try.
He sent me 5 razors; 3 vintage Gillettes, a Merkur, and a Parker. I didn't like any of the Gillettes. Too mild and too light. They felt cheap. I like the Merkur and Parker (both long handle models). The Parker is much heftier and quite aggressive without being harsh. The Merkur is somewhat aggressive, but is lighter.
He sent two shave creams. One is a eucalyptus infused brand that I really like (C.O. Bigelow Menthol Shave Cream with Eucalyptus Oil). I'll probably use it for travel since I can work up a good lather wihtout a brush. The other isn't anything special, but it works. I'll use it up, then forget all about it.
He sent me an Arko shave stick. I like it. It isn't any "better" than the Palmolive stick I've been using, but being larger, is easier to use.
He pointed me towards a badger brush at Target for less than $10. I hate it. It has no body and doesn't build a very good lather with a shave stick applied to the face. It might be better with a mug and soap, but that isn't what I use. Previously, I was using an old boar brush that worked very well for me. He also gave me a smaller boar brush that I absolutely love. It works up a great lather directly on my face, but is small enough to get under my nose without loading my nostrils with soap. I'll be sticking with that.
So, at home, it'll be one of the long-handled razors with Palmolive or Arko shave stick and a boar brush to build a lather directly on my face. While traveling, it'll be the Weishi razor (because it comes with a case) with the Bigelow shave cream.
I still haven't picked out a favorite blade. My bro sent me a bunch of those as well. I have enough blades to last a year or more. :D
Chris
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But what pattern will you pick for the throw pillows in the sun room?
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But what pattern will you pick for the throw pillows in the sun room?
??? ??? ??? ???
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Still going with the accusations of metrosexuality. 'Cause why not?
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Well, it has been a bit more than a month since I started with DE razors (actually, restarted since I first used them in college nearly 20 years ago).
I've since learned my brother is a wet shaving/DE razor aficionado, so he's been sending me razors, creams, etc to try.
He sent me 5 razors; 3 vintage Gillettes, a Merkur, and a Parker. I didn't like any of the Gillettes. Too mild and too light. They felt cheap. I like the Merkur and Parker (both long handle models). The Parker is much heftier and quite aggressive without being harsh. The Merkur is somewhat aggressive, but is lighter.
He sent two shave creams. One is a eucalyptus infused brand that I really like (C.O. Bigelow Menthol Shave Cream with Eucalyptus Oil). I'll probably use it for travel since I can work up a good lather wihtout a brush. The other isn't anything special, but it works. I'll use it up, then forget all about it.
He sent me an Arko shave stick. I like it. It isn't any "better" than the Palmolive stick I've been using, but being larger, is easier to use.
He pointed me towards a badger brush at Target for less than $10. I hate it. It has no body and doesn't build a very good lather with a shave stick applied to the face. It might be better with a mug and soap, but that isn't what I use. Previously, I was using an old boar brush that worked very well for me. He also gave me a smaller boar brush that I absolutely love. It works up a great lather directly on my face, but is small enough to get under my nose without loading my nostrils with soap. I'll be sticking with that.
So, at home, it'll be one of the long-handled razors with Palmolive or Arko shave stick and a boar brush to build a lather directly on my face. While traveling, it'll be the Weishi razor (because it comes with a case) with the Bigelow shave cream.
I still haven't picked out a favorite blade. My bro sent me a bunch of those as well. I have enough blades to last a year or more. :D
Chris
On the cream, it's just rebranded Prorasso. So if you like it checking out the rest of their line might be worth it.
For brushes, boar is good particularly ones made by Omega. If you want to try a badger brush though, the best bang for the buck is made by Edwin Jagger and they run between 40-50 bucks. Cheaper "Pure Badger" and similar, like the one from Target, are about useless.
Link (http://www.westcoastshaving.com/Best-Badger_c_119.html)
Link 2 (http://www.edwinjagger.co.uk/Shaving+Brushes/Best+Badger/Handmade+English+Shaving+Brush%2C+Ivory+EJ877.html)
Link 3 (http://www.edwinjagger.co.uk/Shaving+Brushes/Best+Badger/Handmade+English+Shaving+Brush%2C+Ebony+EJ876.html)
Link 4 (http://www.edwinjagger.co.uk/Shaving+Brushes/Best+Badger/Handmade+English+Shaving+Brush%2C+Light+Horn+EJ872.html)
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Chris, I did the same as you with the Weishi. It's in my travel kit and it's size plus the case are perfect for that. I'm really liking the Merkur HD long handle I have (38C). It has a nice heft to it. The Weishi is still a great razor though, especially for the price.
I've been sticking with the Arko soap, mostly because of the nostalgia factor I had mentioned in an earlier post. Plus it lathers up REALLY well. I keep the Palmolive stick I have in my travel kit.
I'd been using a Crabtree and Eveyln badger brush I got as a gift over 25 years ago. I figured it's seen better days and since I had new everything else, got a new brush. I went with the Parker silvertip. Wow - what a difference! This thing lathers up like crazy! Also one of the best deals on a silvertip I've seen. Made in India, but the quality seems pretty solid, especially for the price of a standard badger brush by some of the other manufacturers.
On blades, I've gone through the whole sample pack now. I rate the red personnas and the Feathers at a tie for #1. I like the Derbys next. The 7 O'Clocks are pretty good. I have to give a thumbs down on the Astras though - they just don't work well in my razor, and seemed to dull significantly after the first shave. I also tried a Merkur blade that came with my razor, and was not impressed by that either.
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The C&E brushes are great, they're also rebadged versions of the ones I linked to above lol.
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I like this guy's (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqLv9js3L_U) take on shaving. He makes some interesting comments.
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Hey, how are you guys disposing of your old blades? I seem to recall back when I was first using a DE, the blade packs came with a little "storage area" on the bottom for old blades, then you just threw the whole shootin' match of blades and container away. None of the new blade packages I ordered have that.
Just save 'em up, and when you have enough you can stack them and use for a trap (probably not the right word) for your high-powered laser. The beam hits the stack of blade on edge edges and bounces around in the gaps and is totally absorbed and converted to heat.
Anyway...
Does this look like a decent shaving brush? http://www.walgreens.com/store/store/product/view_product_details.jsp?id=prod6143739&skuId=sku6127229 Or should I just get the $10 boar-bristle brush at the local Walgreens store? (the badger brush is only available online, but I have a few other things i need that I can pad the order with to get free shipping.) The boar brush looks pretty good to me.
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I got a cheap badger-hair brush from Amazon a couple of years ago - and I'm still using it. $12. Tweezerman brand.
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You can shave if you want to, you can leave your whiskers behind...
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I got a cheap badger-hair brush from Amazon a couple of years ago - and I'm still using it. $12. Tweezerman brand.
Plus one. Works like a charm.
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I got a cheap badger-hair brush from Amazon a couple of years ago - and I'm still using it. $12. Tweezerman brand.
I ordered that same brush on sale a week ago for about $10. It may be a crappy brush but I don't know any better so it's OK. ;) Just using a brush and hot water instead of my fingertips to apply canned shaving cream is a big step up.
I ordered an old (1940's) Gilette Tech razor from one of the vendors at badgerandblades but it won't get here for another week or two because I'm getting it replated. So meanwhile I'm still using up a bag of disposables. Next I need to get some real shaving soap (probably Arko or Palmolive or Williams) and order some decent blades.
Blades are so much cheaper by the 100-pack, should I do that (Personna "lab" blades in the blue box, or Astra SP's, or Crystal "SUPER +") or is it really better to try a bunch of expensive samples first and find the one I like? Then order that one in bulk?
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Blades are so much cheaper by the 100-pack, should I do that (Personna "lab" blades in the blue box, or Astra SP's, or Crystal "SUPER +") or is it really better to try a bunch of expensive samples first and find the one I like? Then order that one in bulk?
That is what I would recommend. Get a sampler pack. There really is a difference between razors and faces. I would stick with a sampler with the more popular brands - Feather, Derby, Merkur, Crystal, etc. You will definitely notice a difference. Feathers are probably the sharpest, closest shaving blades out there, but personally I do better with Derby as far as comfort without sacrificing a smooth shave. Which works out well for me because Derbys are really inexpensive. :)
You'll also notice a big difference once you dump the canned soap.
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At Christmas my Mother gave me my Grandfather's circa 1930s Gilette safety razor.
I may have to get a pack of blades and try it out.
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That is what I would recommend. Get a sampler pack. There really is a difference between razors and faces. I would stick with a sampler with the more popular brands - Feather, Derby, Merkur, Crystal, etc. You will definitely notice a difference. Feathers are probably the sharpest, closest shaving blades out there, but personally I do better with Derby as far as comfort without sacrificing a smooth shave. Which works out well for me because Derbys are really inexpensive. :)
You'll also notice a big difference once you dump the canned soap.
This.
Ordering what may well be a couple years worth of blades, depending how frequently you swap blades, is only cost effective if they work well for you.
Sampler first, westcoastshaving.com has reasonably priced good ones, then if one brand strikes you fancy I'd order two or thew packs to be sure. Then I'd go bulk.
Just be sure when you make the jump to bulk it's the EXACT same blade. Gillette 7 o'clock for example, there are multiple ones in different colored boxes. Similar, but each color is made somewhere else and is slightly different. So if you like the blues from St. Petersburg, but order the blacks from India, you may or may not like them.
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http://www.amazon.com/Superior-Premium-Platinum-Double-Safety/dp/B001QY8QXM/ref=?ie=UTF8&m=AAEAL4S4CJG99
I know I should try a variety pack of blades before ordering 100 of anything (I have a nice selection in my shopping cart at razorbladesandmore.com), but I couldn't pass this up. Thought I'd share the good deal.
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http://www.amazon.com/Superior-Premium-Platinum-Double-Safety/dp/B001QY8QXM/ref=?ie=UTF8&m=AAEAL4S4CJG99
I know I should try a variety pack of blades before ordering 100 of anything (I have a nice selection in my shopping cart at razorbladesandmore.com), but I couldn't pass this up. Thought I'd share the good deal.
That's about $0.40 cheaper than the 100 pack of Derby blades, which is what I use. I tried some Shark's that came with my handle, didn't like them, figured I'd take a gamble on the Derby and absolutely loved them.
Derby blade, Parker handle, apply water to face, shave, replace blade every week and dump the old one in a broth can that I cut a slit in with a crappy knife as suggested in this very thread.
I don't see myself changing from that setup ever.
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I use those Astras. They work fine for me for a week at a go. I do plan on trying some others eventually.
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I'm still gonna order samples of Personna medical blades, Feather, Gillette Russian, Crystal, etc. But now I can wait until they get some items back in stock that I want. And I get 100 Astras for $9 instead of $4 for 10. That's a pretty good gamble for $5.
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That reminded me that I have been wanting to try the Personna 74 blades (Tungsten steel, and titanium coated). Allegedly the best blade out there. Just found some on Amazon (computer doesn't wanna play nice and post the link for some reason). 13.99 for 14 blades, plus 5.11 shipping. Since these allegedly will go *30* shaves per blade, I feel ok ordering them. The standard red Personna blades have been my favorite so far, with the Feather Hi Stainless being next in line...
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*D'OH!*
:facepalm:
Seems I didn't quite read the listing close enough... These are the Personna 74 *injector* blades - single edged....
I don't have an injector razor....
Anybody have a source for an inexpensive injector type razor that I can get to try these out in? or interested in buying a 14 pack of Personna 74 Injector blades??? :)
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My mom has an old Schick injector razor. She asked me recently if they still made blades for it.
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yup, can still find plenty of injector blades...
Found a nice Schick injector razor on evilBay, went ahead and pulled the trigger on it.... From what I've been reading about these injector razors, they're supposedly even better than the double edge ones we've been discussing.... Will post more info once I get to try it out...
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I've set aside my Mach III after reading this thread, and have an inexpensive safety razor. It happened when I ran out of blade refills and saw Walmart wanting $10 for Mach III packs. You guys are right about the difference in quality between different blade brands on these double-edged razors, though.
I've used a few Derby, Feather and Gillette blades on it so far. I like the Feather blades the best.
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Feather is generally the sharpest and many are a big fan.
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Soooooooo.....
First off... Personna 74's are absolutely amazing. The very first shave with this thing, I tell you it was the smoothest, most tug free blade I've ever used.... It's almost like it scared the stubble into just jumping out and running away ahead of this incredibly sharp blade.
Second, I agree with what one poster on one of the forums when I started searching for injector razors said... Injectors are so easy to get the right angle it's almost like cheating.
However, the particular version of the Schick Injector I got was a touch more... Aggressive... That what I was used to.... No bad nicks, but a few more than I usually get with my DE....
Overall, extremely happy with everything so far... Now, the Personna 74's are allegedly good for 13-14 shaves... We'll see how they feel at about shave 10.... :)
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Oh, you guys are still talking about safety razors? How quaint. :P =D
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.straightrazordesigns.com%2Fbmz_cache%2F7%2F725772bbe104220f57da8fe3bf28d226.image.525x550.jpg&hash=661396080410ddf7fe327205dd5200ed543bc2c6)
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Oh, you guys are still talking about safety razors? How quaint. :P =D
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.straightrazordesigns.com%2Fbmz_cache%2F7%2F725772bbe104220f57da8fe3bf28d226.image.525x550.jpg&hash=661396080410ddf7fe327205dd5200ed543bc2c6)
I prefer to keep the red stuff in the inside, thanks. :P
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I prefer to keep the red stuff in the inside, thanks. :P
It's not so bad after the initial few bloodbaths. =D
I got the above Dovo Gentleman about a month and a half ago. I was first playing around a bit with one of the $25 "shavette" razors with replaceable blades, but the difference between this one and that one is night and day. More heft which I think leads to more feeling what the blade is doing.
I'm still working on getting the right angle of attack around the chin area, which apparently takes a good bit of practice, but everywhere else the shave is even closer and smoother than the safety razor. I've generally only been using it on weekends or other days when I have time, as prep, shaving, and cleanup can be a good 30 minute process.
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Oh, you guys are still talking about safety razors? How quaint. :P =D
(https://armedpolitesociety.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.straightrazordesigns.com%2Fbmz_cache%2F7%2F725772bbe104220f57da8fe3bf28d226.image.525x550.jpg&hash=661396080410ddf7fe327205dd5200ed543bc2c6)
Do you carry that in your shoe?.....
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Ben, I might eventually graduate to one of those.... Hopefully I can manage to keep my nose attached to my face... :)
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Do you carry that in your shoe?.....
Only if I think my arch nemisis Goldfinger may be nearby...
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I like the Persona blades, though mine aren't the 74 series. I'm using "Shark" brand at the moment and they're doing a good job as well. Derby is ok, I can use them, but not for many shaves, maybe 3-4. Feathers are supposed to be the best, but they're not any better on my face than the Persona or Shark blades. Astra is the worst for me.
Once I'm done withe all my samples, I'll probably stock up on Persona. They're inexpensive and available. My brother tells me the ones sold through medical supply houses are even better.
Chris
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I actually liked the Personas from my sample pack a lot as well. I liked them better than Feathers. The only thing I don't like about Personas is all the confusing different packaging of the different types. I also read that the blue Crystal blades are the same as red Personas.
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It's not so bad after the initial few bloodbaths. =D
I got the above Dovo Gentleman about a month and a half ago. I was first playing around a bit with one of the $25 "shavette" razors with replaceable blades, but the difference between this one and that one is night and day. More heft which I think leads to more feeling what the blade is doing.
I'm still working on getting the right angle of attack around the chin area, which apparently takes a good bit of practice, but everywhere else the shave is even closer and smoother than the safety razor. I've generally only been using it on weekends or other days when I have time, as prep, shaving, and cleanup can be a good 30 minute process.
As I think I said upthread, I tried "straight razor" shaving with one of those Dovo Shavettes, and the bloodshed was enough to convince me to stick with my safety razor. You really had an easier time with an actual straight razor? May have to give that a try...
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As I think I said upthread, I tried "straight razor" shaving with one of those Dovo Shavettes, and the bloodshed was enough to convince me to stick with my safety razor. You really had an easier time with an actual straight razor? May have to give that a try...
Yup, I found it much easier. I had read that before I got the shavette, but the difference between $25 for the shavette and $200 for a razor and strop made me ignore the advice for just wanting to see what it was like. It's a big leap cost-wise and hard to make if you think you may end up not liking the straight razor. Though it appears there is a thriving market for used straight razors.
I still nicked myself slightly a few times the first couple of shaves with the Dovo from getting used to the different feel, but nothing like a bloodbath. I recall my first shave with the shavette, my chin looked like I had a red goatee. :laugh:
One piece of advice if you want to get into it is to buy from a shop that sharpens the razor for you. The Dovos come from the factory stating they are "shave ready", however the one bit of advice I picked up from researching razors was to buy from a place that will hone them further until they can be run across the hair on your arm and cut the hair off -- that's not rubbing against your arm and shaving hair off, but running it through the hair like a comb and seeing if it will cut the hair in half. That's when it's "shaving sharp".
There are a few Internet providers that will hone the razor for you. I found Straight Razor Designs to be really good for service and for advice:
Shop:
http://www.straightrazordesigns.com/
Forum:
http://straightrazorplace.com/
I know there's a few guys here who know way more about it than I do that might weigh in.
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Derby's I like OK and I actually don't mind Astras. I'm one of those guys that didn't care much for the feathers, personally. They are indeed the sharpest but they just didn't agree with my face.
I like the blue 7 0'Clock Gillettes best
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Thanks for the info, Ben. Don't know if I'm going to jump into straight-razors, but at least now I know to go big, if I go at all. Appreciate it, especially the advice to have it honed before using.
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A straight razor would be very cool - unfortunately, I can't sharpen worth a damn. I sharpen a knife for 15 minutes, and it's duller when I finish than when I started. ???
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A straight razor would be very cool - unfortunately, I can't sharpen worth a damn. I sharpen a knife for 15 minutes, and it's duller when I finish than when I started. ???
I have no experience yet, but it appears if you strop properly and use chromium dioxide on a linen strop occasionally, you can go up to a year before you have to hone. I've watched some honing videos, and it actually looks to be easier than knife honing, because you're basically leaving the blade flat against the stone, so no angle to try and hold.
I'm going to give it a go myself when it's time. If I screw up, Straight Razor Designs includes one free sharpening with the razor (and apparently once in a while has sales that include free lifetime sharpening). Otherwise it's only like $20 to send it away for professional sharpening.
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Well, second experience with the Personna 74 injectors was.... Less than satisfactory... Not the fault of the blade, it's still wicked sharp... The problem is the razor itself... It's actually *much* more aggressive than my Weishi DE...
My neck looks like they threw a ticker tape parade....
*sigh*
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Yup, the Weishi is very mild. It lulls you into a false sense of safety. :D
Chris
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As a revolver nut, I do want this: http://www.sixshootershaving.com/six-shooter-shave-brushes/
Not for that price though.
Chris
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As a revolver nut, I do want this: http://www.sixshootershaving.com/six-shooter-shave-brushes/
Not for that price though.
Chris
Somebody's been on Gentlemint again... :P
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Getting ready to take the plunge... and I'm pretty sure I'm going to permanently replace the cartridge razor for the DE safety razor, so I'm looking at taking a step up from the aforementioned Weishi razors. I'm looking at the Merkur 33C Classic, the 34C Heavy Duty, the 23C Long Handle, and the 47C Long Handle razors. Suggestions on which one to start with?
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I have one of the Merkur long handle razors, the 38-something I think. For my hands, I like the longer handle. It is quite a bit heavier than the Weishi. I use the Weishi as my travel rzor, and the shorter handle doesn't bother me at all, but I do prefer a longer handle.
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Have you considered getting a "vintage" safety razor? I bought a Schick Krona (guessing it's about 30 years old) off eBay and a replated Gillette fat-handled Tech razor made in the 1940's from one of the vendors at B&B. Including the shipping, the Krona was $10 and the Tech was $27. Both of them look almost new (the Krona was a mess when I got it, but it cleaned up really easy), and shave great with the right blades*. I think I like the Gillette better.
*so far I like Wilkinson blades from Walmart, and Astra SP's. Derby blades from Sally Beauty suck, even though they were the most expensive.
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I've tried those "vintage" razors, but prefer my Merkur over them.
Chris
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So now that I've learned a bit more about my Schick single-edge w/ the Personna 74 blades....
My face no longer looks like that of a Freddy Krueger victim...
I use the Schick pretty much only when I have several days growth though... the more open design of it really does a number of a 4-5 day beard.. I'll use it for the first pass, then do a second (and if needed/desired third) pass with my Weishi...
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A little googling is showing that the Edwin Jagger DE89 seems to be highly regarded as a first DE razor... hmm...
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FWIW, I've been using Shark brand blades lately. I really like them. They seem to last longer than others and shave better.
Chris
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Getting ready to take the plunge... and I'm pretty sure I'm going to permanently replace the cartridge razor for the DE safety razor, so I'm looking at taking a step up from the aforementioned Weishi razors. I'm looking at the Merkur 33C Classic, the 34C Heavy Duty, the 23C Long Handle, and the 47C Long Handle razors. Suggestions on which one to start with?
I have used my Merkur 1904 Classic with a closed comb (pretty similar to the 33C Classic) exclusively for about four months. Never tried a long handle, but don't think it is necessary for me. There's a learning curve, but it does a fine job once you get past that.
The cheap Astra blades I bought with the razor are still working okay for me, and changing them out once a week makes it easy to keep a sharp blade. I did buy some Wilkinson Sword blades recently to try soon.
My first DE shave was with conventional shaving cream. Meh. With the Mach 3, I just used water, but knew I'd need something more with the DE. Later, I tried using my wife's conditioner, which did an okay job but needed to be reapplied between passes. The past week or so I've used Shave Secret shaving oil. It has greatly reduced irritation, but it slows the blade down as you shave which makes it feel like it isn't lubricating as much as I'd like.
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Guess what came today? =D
An Edwin Jagger 89L, sampler pack of blades, Palmolive shave stick, and shaving brush. Looking forward to trying it this weekend.
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I was in Woodfield Mall the other day (First mall I've been in since the late '80's) and there was a store called "The Art of Shaving".
I got a new pure badger brush, matching stand and a Merkur Solingen Safety Razor. I just order the $32 blade sampler pack from West Coast Shaving (Their website is very slow and clunky.)
I'll report my findings on blades once they arrive, but barring slicing my face up, I'm not that metrosexual to get into the finer differences. It either takes off the stubble and lasts more then a couple of shaves or it doesn't.
I've still got 5 or 6 bars of Burma Shave soap, but I'm starting to get worried about my supply.
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Art of Shaving is terribly expensive. We've had them here in NoVA for a few years.
Chris
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Art of Shaving is terribly expensive. We've had them here in NoVA for a few years.
Chris
That is because it is owned by Procter & Gamble.
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Art of Shaving is pricey but their stuff is usually at least decent.
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I found a weird place downtown called "Dandy's" ( http://www.dandysuit.com/ )
Really cool store with really nice people, but a bunch of their straight razors were in terrible shape. I saw wavy edges, and some horrible regrinds.