Try the 12k first if you already ordered it, def be in that overlap of smooth/sharp.
I actually have less tugging when the spine is laid closer to my skin. Sometimes feels as if it is not even cutting. Cannot feel the blade, like it does not feel "sharp" to my skin....but the hair is cut closer with less irritation. Just play with it and see what feels best. I think the "blade feel" and "tugging," that I experience any way, is from "scraping as opposed to cutting.Today's shave was shave #5 with the SR. I had to wait a bit for my face to heal before I felt comfortable shaving again. Today's shave wasn't that close, I only did two passes but I only nicked myself twice. I'm mainly working on my motions and muscle memory at this point but I notice the razor tugging a bit in a few places. The chin is still a bit challenging to shave so I'm working on my technique with that. I know we normally want to hold the razor at an angle that is about the spine's width from the skin but are there any circumstances where anyone would recommend holding it at a higher angle?
I usually don't cut myself on the first pass. Its the second pass where I'm going across the grain that I find myself more likely to end up with cuts on my chin.Sounds like you have made a lot of progress - great to hear! The chin area can be tough. Don't be afraid to take multiple passes on this area.
I’ve been looking at the superior shave since he seems to have favorable reviews and seems well regarded on this forum. I’ve also had great success with maggards so I’ll keep that in mind. This Bismarck model has caught my eye aside from the gold wash which I know will wear off with home wear. I’ve yet to try a Spanish point.The Dovo Bismarck is currently one of their better SR's.
Both Dovo and Thiers-Issard SR's (new) can sometimes be hit or miss with their quality control for their price. If getting either, buy from a vendor that will happily accept returns if you are not completely satisfied.
I’ve been looking at the superior shave since he seems to have favorable reviews and seems well regarded on this forum. I’ve also had great success with maggards so I’ll keep that in mind. This Bismarck model has caught my eye aside from the gold wash which I know will wear off with home wear. I’ve yet to try a Spanish point.View attachment 1184962
I ended up deciding on the Dovo Carrie from tss. Thanks for the recommendation. I have a gold dollar I’m practicing my honing on currently. If I’m lucky by using the balsa strops and my finisher I won’t have to redone my Ralf Aust or this new Dovo for a while. I’m planning to rehone my vintage Japanese when I’m more comfortable honing.@Aidah, to the best of my knowledge, the Bergischer Lowe has a thinner grind than the Bismarck and requires a more careful touch when honing. I have a Bismarck (actually the Carre) which I bought from TSS and am very happy with. You will also notice that some folks sell the 5/8 versus the 6/8 inch Bergischer Lowe. Your plan to mix it up a bit makes a lot of sense to me.
I ended up deciding on the Dovo Carrie from tss.