How much DE experience did you have before moving on to a more aggressive razor like an open comb.
Open combs are not necessarily more aggressive than safety bar razors, but your basic question about how much experience do you need to move up to an aggressive razor is a good one...Shaving daily, I would say that it took about 3 months to get half-decent at wetshaving; and then another 3 months to get good at it.
How much DE experience did you have before moving on to a more aggressive razor like an open comb.
I would have never even tried one if it weren't for B&B. Just buy one if you like. Experience begins when you dive in and get your feet wet.
Open combs are not necessarily more aggressive than safety bar razors, but your basic question about how much experience do you need to move up to an aggressive razor is a good one. A good wet shave is all about technique. I am an old guy. I started wetshaving 45 years ago, took a 42 year hiatus while I played with injectors and cartridges, and then started wetshaving again 3 years ago. I figured it would be an easy switch back to a safety razor. My first shave with an EJ89, a mild razor, was a knife attack disguised as a shave. It was most definitely a "What the heck!" moment. Shaving daily, I would say that it took about 3 months to get half-decent at wetshaving; and then another 3 months to get good at it; and years later I still tweak my technique looking to improve my shave.
I have moved on from the EJ89 to all manner of aggressive razors. I dare say that today I could get a great shave with the EJ in a dark room with my eyes closed. That is how much my technique has evolved over the years.
Good luck
About 8 months in, after fiddling with common Merkurs, vintage Gillette adjustables, all 3 modern Merkur adjustables and a plethora of brushes / blades / soaps / creams / lathering approaches and prep techniques, I have settled in to a comfortable routine.
I now have the confidence to open up my everyday Mergress to a setting of 3, which I did today with no problems and an improved shave, I think. I'll go about half a tick more everyday until my face says "uncle," and then play with my Futur and Vision 2000.
I still think that's the mistake most Fatboy users make. I almost did it myself. They adjust the dial until the first time the razor bites them and assume that it's too aggressive there. It's probably not. Shave with it there for a week before making a decision, and then decide. I'm a head shaver, and I'm currently using my Progress at a 6.5 equivalent (1.5 the second time around). I've gotten one small weeper in the past 3 weeks using it, and I'm getting great shaves.
Interesting, Garrett. Do you use the same settings on your face as you do your head?
None. It's shaving, not rocket science. Move on what you want, when you want, however you want.