Newb Question

[mouscacha]

So I've been shaving regularly for a few weeks, and can finally start to see some progress.

My question is regarding sharpness, which I seem to see all new straight users having questions about. Is my blade sharp? I can't get a close shave in this and this area. Am I right to assume that if I am gettting a close shave in most areas, save under my jaw line, that it has less to do with sharpness and more to do with technique?


I think I'm asking this question a little premature as I have another straight coming in the mail that is shave ready. Without asking I'd be able to remove that question, but I just can't wait. Haha.

 

[Luc]

If you get decents spots and rough spots, yes, technique. Don't worry too much about it. It will magically get closer!

 

[holli4pirating]

I would guess that, at this point, it is probably a combination of technique and the edge. From what I have seen, edges don't last as long for new guys because of shave technique and stropping technique. But there is no way anyone can say for sure without actually testing out your razor.

 

[mouscacha]

Dang. Guess I'll just wait for my 2 new razors to come in. I couldn't help myself after finding the le grelot. Had to buy the Sheffield on vintage. Dang this site and all the good information =P

 

[holli4pirating]

It is pretty typical for a new guy to get his second or third razor and think it is better honed or took a better edge than their first. This is because, with the first razor, your technique usually isn't great (shaving or stropping), and that can damage the edge a bit. So your technique improves but your shaves don't get waaay better because of the edge. Then you get your second razor with a fresh edge and, with your improved technique, get waaay better shaves. It's not necessairly that the first edge was no good, but rather that now you have a good edge and good technique.

So it's really win-win. You'll have more razors, fresh edges to go with your improved techinque, and your shaving experiece should be much more enjoyable. Have fun!

 

[Antique Hoosier]

A fresh, sharp, well honed edge is undeniable. You know it when you experience it.

 

[mouscacha]

Got my le grelot this afternoon. I feel the difference; in more ways than one. Close shave, but still have missed spots. I have to get used to the weight difference. The dovo feels so light compared to this blade. Also, the edge feels ???harder??? than my dovo. Does that make sense?

All in all, I'm a happy camper with the new blade. I'll see what the shave is like tomorrow. Today's shave was a bit rushed to begin with.

 

[holli4pirating]

The hardness you are feeling is probably due to the difference in grind. Since the LeGrelot is thicker right above the bevel, it won't flex like the Dovo.

 

[mouscacha]

I felt that right after the first pass. Not to mention the blade is heavier to begin with.

I also had my closest shave yet. I took my time shaving yesterday with the new blade and touched up in the areas I missed. Voilà!

Well, I better watch out. This is where the cuts begin again. Getting cocky with a very sharp razor is not a good thing. Hehe.

 

[holli4pirating]

That is another aspect of the thicker grind. Since they don't flex, they are less likely to bite you, which means they are more forgiving of small imperfections in your technique. This makes them much easier to shave with, initially, which is why half hollow is recommended for new guys and why new guys tend to love them so much.

One reult of this is that a more forgiving blade won't force you to implove your technique because they won't force you to pay for your mistakes in blood. Full hollows are, IMO, like tough love; quarter hollows coddle you. Here, as with all else, it is personal preference.

 

[Ru4scuba?]

That is another aspect of the thicker grind. Since they don't flex, they are less likely to bite you, which means they are more forgiving of small imperfections in your technique. This makes them much easier to shave with, initially, which is why half hollow is recommended for new guys and why new guys tend to love them so much.

One reult of this is that a more forgiving blade won't force you to implove your technique because they won't force you to pay for your mistakes in blood. Full hollows are, IMO, like tough love; quarter hollows coddle you. Here, as with all else, it is personal preference.

Good info Holli...appreciate it

I had a killer shave today and it was exactly the scenario you describe...my second or third razor.

Makes me want to get the first re-honed and give it a try again!

 

[mouscacha]

My first razor is already on it's way for rehoning. Definitely want to give my dovo another try after rehoning.