Simple DE blade question

[G22inSC]

I am brand new to this addiction and have a few shaves under my belt with the typical Merkur 34C. I have a couple Vintage Gillettes on the way now and I can't wait to compare them. Got to thinking this morning and realized I had a quick question.

Once it is time for a blade change (after "x" number of shaves), does everyone discard the blade for a new one or flip the blade over and get another round "x" number of shaves? Curious mind wants to know.

 

[SteveWY]

Flipping/turning the blade is often debated here. Most will agree will not extend your shaves. I tried flipping the blade after each shave and found no difference. You won't get another round of shaves but you may get a round of irritation if you push the blade beyond its limit. Just use the blade (most 3-5 shaves is average, some go longer) and toss it. Your reward... a new blade!

 

[dcobranchi]

+1 Flipping the blade is probably useless. Micrographs prove that as a blade gets used over several shaves the edge develops tiny nicks in it. Flipping won't fix those.

 

[Mick]

I typically get 7 days out of most DE blades. After that time they are starting to tug and become uncomfortable.

Just toss out any blade you are not satisfied with regardless of the # of shaves on it and grab a fresh blade. They are very inexpensive so no need to try to "stretch" another shave out of one that is "past the sell by date"

 

[JimK]

I have a tough time keeping a blade in my razor for an entire workweek, even if I'm not trying out other blades in the meantime... That slot in the back of my medicine cabinet keeps calling "feed me", and at 9 cents a blade, I'm very happy to do so before a new blade ever begins its downward spiral....

 

[Go West Young Man]

When your steak knife gets dull, does flipping from your left to right hand change anything?

 

[kosby]

I use a blade until it begins to tug then it's tossed out.

 

[Sledgehammer39]

I discard the blade after a few uses, no flipping!

 

[mistercitizen]

I can't say that I keep track of what side I use at any given time. I may be flipping a blade, but I am unaware of it if I am. I go about 4 or 5 shaves and I discard.... with or without flipping.

Ben