I recently bought a Dovo classic 6/8 because I really wanted to get into using a straight razor. Tonight I used it for the first time after getting it properly honed. I will admit it was a little intimidating but I finished without doing any major damage. I had a few spots that gave me some trouble mostly because I struggled to figure out what kind of grip to use. I ended up finishing with my DE razor just to make it nice and clean. Overall I really enjoyed using the straight razor, even if it does have a bit of a learning curve. Any advice from the more experienced guys on how to become more proficient? I really want to learn how to get better.
My first shave with a straight razor
- Thread starter rfn379
- Start date
Congratulations!
First bit of advice: make your lather a little wetter than you would with a DE. It helps the blade glide more smoothly.
Second bit of advice: don't die.
First bit of advice: make your lather a little wetter than you would with a DE. It helps the blade glide more smoothly.
Second bit of advice: don't die.
The most important thing: Stick with it! It gets better very quick if you try to shave with it every day.
It takes a while to learn how to use this tool to it's maximum potential. Just keep trying different things. Remember that a straight razor was designed to be used with a slicing motion, as if you are cutting steak or bread, not a straight ahead ax chopping motion. Be careful with this though as you can cut yourself very easily. Remember to REALLY stretch your skin too, it's very important that you are always pulling the skin tight so the hair stands up on your face.
Welcome aboard. I had my fourth shave yesterday. While far from expert, things are starting to click. My hang up now so the ATG hold.
