Rookie to DE w/questions, using a Merkur 38c

[cbd]

My lovely wife bought me a Merkur 38c for Father's Day. Anticipating the switch from Mach 3 to DE, I galloped to the bathroom to prep my face and try my new razor out.
First off, I used the Merkur blade that came with my razor. After this blade, I will resort to my new stash of Derby Extras, which I hear are pretty good blades.
Now excuse the newbie question, but from what i understand, you will average 5-6 good shaves with one blade. Is this 5-6 shaves per side of the one blade? How do you keep track of what side of the blade you use each time? I know it's probably over-thinking, but I want to maximize my usage of both sides. So I guess I'm looking for your input on how you use your razor, namely, if you keep record of how many times you use the one side of the blade, or if you simply replace the blade whether you've used both edges to it's full 5-6 shaves per side.
But to complete the 1st-time experience with a DE razor, I thought it was fun, and I'm looking forward to my next shave. I took my time, studied the angles and went slow. I did get razor burn and just a couple of minor weepers, but I do realize this will improve over time. Thanks for any input!

 

[uberculture]

My lovely wife bought me a Merkur 38c for Father's Day. Anticipating the switch from Mach 3 to DE, I galloped to the bathroom to prep my face and try my new razor out.
First off, I used the Merkur blade that came with my razor. After this blade, I will resort to my new stash of Derby Extras, which I hear are pretty good blades.
Now excuse the newbie question, but from what i understand, you will average 5-6 good shaves with one blade. Is this 5-6 shaves per side of the one blade? How do you keep track of what side of the blade you use each time? I know it's probably over-thinking, but I want to maximize my usage of both sides. So I guess I'm looking for your input on how you use your razor, namely, if you keep record of how many times you use the one side of the blade, or if you simply replace the blade whether you've used both edges to it's full 5-6 shaves per side.
But to complete the 1st-time experience with a DE razor, I thought it was fun, and I'm looking forward to my next shave. I took my time, studied the angles and went slow. I did get razor burn and just a couple of minor weepers, but I do realize this will improve over time. Thanks for any input!

Most of us use both sides during each shave. Take a few strokes, twirl the razor around, take a few with the other side... you'll know when to replace the blade, but in general, for me, 3-4 shaves total before I replace the blade (using both sides, not 3-4 per side).

Welcome to the club! And kudos to your wife for getting you started.

 

[ytsejammer]

awesome father's day present...best thing to do with those merkur blades is throw them away...and also as mentioned both sides of the blade are up for grabs...enjoy your new hobby, prepare to be broke and welcome kind sir!!

 

[cbd]

Thanks for the great explanations guys! It is indeed a whole new outlook on shaving. Much appreciated!