Tempted to try DE - advice?

[Leslie145]

I'm an ardent wet shaver (why would I be here otherwise?), but as you'll see from my Hall Of Fame entry, I'm a Mach3 user; a very nice Mach3, but hardly old school, I know...

Now, there is no way I will ever try straight razors, as to be perfectly honest, they scare the **** out of me. I've seen too many horror/gangster movies & even when I go to the barber, I have to close my eyes when he does the back of my neck with a straight... OK, OK, I'm a wimp...

One method I am interested in trying, however, is a traditional DE safety. Now, I don't want to pay the earth if I'm going to try it once & go back to the Mach3 after having to spend a couple of hours (a) cleaning up the bathroom & (b) waiting for my face to be stitched back on in hospital, so I'm looking for advice as to how to go about trying DE...

Do you have to change the way you shave? Are there basic tips I need to know?

Comments/suggestions/insults for being a wimp??

 

[SteveWY]

Welcome to the B&B! The answer to all of your questions may be found:

B&B Library

• Getting Started Wetshaving
• Interactive Guide to Aftershaves
• Interactive Guide to DE Razor Shaving
• Interactive Guide to Lathering
• Interactive Guide to Straight Razor Shaving
• Interactive Guide to the Shaving Brushes

Short answer: Yes, jump in! Pick up a used safety razor on the BST and some blades and get started. If it doesn't work out you won't be out much and you can always sell the razor. The techniques are different, think no pressure and multiple passes for a gradual stubble reduction. Review the "getting Started" and Guide to DE Razor Shaving" and that should give you a glimpse of what to expect. You will find lots of help and advice on this forum.

And no, you are not a wimp!

 

[Wingnut]

No worries--they're called SAFETY razors, after all! You don't have to stress about opening up an artery or vein and bleeding out with a DE razor.

However, there is a very different technique involved when transitioning from a Mach 3 or other cartridge system. The angle of the blade is controlled by the user, and the blades are not mounted on springs, so the amount of pressure required is MUCH less. It's a skill, and as such will require practice to achieve the best results. If you're interested in reading more about this, check out the "Getting Started" link in my signature for more information.

For what it's worth, I've got a hand tremor and stressed about whether DE shaving was for me or not when I first joined B&B. I gave it a try eventually, and one shave was all it took for me to see that I would soon be getting the best shaves of my life--and enjoying it more--with a DE. I now shave with DE, SE, and injectors without fear or anything more than the very occasional weeper when I get careless.

If you are still wary, think about transitioning by "de-evolving"--giving the Trac II cart a try, then a single-bladed disposeable, then eventually going to a DE (or not). The Trac II has no pivot or blade springs, so it will start to teach you about finding the correct angle and lack of pressure, but with "training wheels", if you will.

 

[ChiefThunder]

Definitely check out the B&B library. Also, google mantic 59; he has some very informative videos. As stated above, gradual beard reduction with multiple passes, a very light touch (use the weight of the razor only), and shaving only areas that have lather will reduce/prevent irritation. Enjoy!!

 

[Toothpick]

you have a lot of misconceptions in your head. I'd start by clearing those out completely first

read through this page as it is a darn good starting point for someone wanting to try DE

You will have to learn a technique with a DE and you will have to spend time perfecting this but it's not rocket science. If you go in to with an open mind and a willingness to learn you will never go back to a cartridge.

Do you use canned goo now? if you want to get a feel for traditional wet shaving you can start by purchasing a brush and soap/cream and building a lather and applying it by brush while still using your cartridge. It will give you an idea of some of the work involved while also perfecting your skills before you jump to a DE. I think you'll realize it doesn't take a couple hours either.

 

[dushea]

Spend some time watching Mantic59's youtube videos. I was pretty nervous during my first shave, but after that I realized it wasn't going to bite me. Grab a blade sampler, start with just a WTG pass and you'll be off and running to never look back.

 

[chrisf8657]

Garry's Sample Shop has a $30 SHIPED offer going on right now just for beginners - you get a razor, blades, shaving cream & aftershave.
This would be a great way for you to find out if it's something for you. If you like it, you can keep the razor Gary sends you, or spend some money and get a new Merkur 34c (recommended for beginners) and dive in.

Here's the thread:
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showth...mple-Shop-Vintage-Gillette-Razor-Starter-Sets!

 

[Emanon]

Garry's Sample Shop has a $30 SHIPED offer going on right now just for beginners - you get a razor, blades, shaving cream & aftershave.
This would be a great way for you to find out if it's something for you. If you like it, you can keep the razor Gary sends you, or spend some money and get a new Merkur 34c (recommended for beginners) and dive in.

Here's the thread:
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showth...mple-Shop-Vintage-Gillette-Razor-Starter-Sets!

I'm going to use this post to bounce my own thoughts off of because it is simple advice and relates to my own thoughts. DE shaving is about enjoying your shave. That may not be what it set out to be originally, but in the here and now, that's what it has become. So if you don't plan on loving the "art" of shaving, then stick to what you're doing.

Ok...that said. I know you don't want to dump cash into something you'll try once then not like it, so...
Let it be known right now and get comfortable with the fact that to truly decide if it's for you, then expect to spend about $50 right off. I started with a Merkur HD and after 5 years I see no reason to change. It works great. I suspect it was a 34C because I see that # thrown around so much as the big starter razor, it must be what I have. But I can't remember. Anyway, that's 30 something bucks right there. Then at least a pack of blades. Derby's are my suggestion which would only be a few bucks as you can get 100 for under $15. I wouldn't advise getting 100 but a pack of 5 or 10 (whatever they come in) would do. Then some shaving cream which would cost a beginner about $ 10 for a tube of C.O Bigelow from Bath And Body Works. Great stuff. Or $6 for Kiss My Face from some supermarkets like Wegmans or health food stores.

If you decide you like it then the next step would be a sample pack of blades. That gives you a few packs of 5-10 blades each of various DE blade brands to try for about $20-$25.

I say just cross that line and go for it. But know going in that there is no real "cheap" way. At least one pack of blades. A Razor and some cream to start.

Make sure to get a beginner friendly blade. That is why I suggested Derby. I still use them as I find them to be great close shaving blades as well as forgiving. YMMV.

Go for it bro.

And welcome.

 

[jeffriley]

You don't have to spend much to give it a try. The razors you find for sale for less than $20 seem to be perfectly fine for most people. I shave with a razor I bought from Amazon for $3. If you like it you can buy a nicer one. How you shave with the Mach 3 will have a large impact on how easy it is for you to transition. I came to a DE from a non-pivoting disposable and found the technique fairly similar. If you are use to bearing down and really forcing the Mach 3 you will have to work harder to change your technique. To me, the biggest benefit to DE shaving is the adaptability. You can get gear that specifically fits your needs. A Mach 3 has been designed to be a good razor for as many people as possible so it probably will not be perfect for very many people. However, since it has been designed for broad appeal, it is possible that it suits you just fine. A lot of the people on this forum (including me) have migrated to DE shaving because mass market razors did not work well on their beards. Because of this it is easy for us to forget that not everyone will see the amazing improvement in shaving quality from a DE that we get. This being said, I do believe that just about anyone can get some benefit from DEs, it is just up to the individual as to whether this benefit is worth the tradeoffs in time and learning curve.

 

[Heron]

you get a razor, blades, shaving cream & aftershave.

You get a brush with Garry's starter kit, too. I think it's an Omega boar.

 

[viper16]

Garry's Sample Shop has a $30 SHIPED offer going on right now just for beginners - you get a razor, blades, shaving cream & aftershave.
This would be a great way for you to find out if it's something for you. If you like it, you can keep the razor Gary sends you, or spend some money and get a new Merkur 34c (recommended for beginners) and dive in.

Here's the thread:
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showth...mple-Shop-Vintage-Gillette-Razor-Starter-Sets!

That is a good deal. Many people like the vintage Gillettes, and you get a good brush and some sample blades to boot. Arko is a great soap, if the scent doesn't bother you as it is pretty strong, but it works really well. Also the certificate is nice, either to try a different vintage razor, or if you do like it and decide to get a new razor, for getting some additional samples from Gary to try out. I would probably lean towards the Arko, just because with it you get plenty of soap to get you through the learning phase of DE shaving, and then some, so it is a great value, and if you don't like the smell, I would flatten it out on a plate, so you can get the most surface area available, and then set it out someplace where you can just let it air out, to get much of the scent out. The sample will probably last you a few weeks or more. I have a few samples that I have a few weeks on, and they still appear to have a few more weeks to go, it is just hard to estimate how long a sample will last each person though.

 

[tm3]

i am all for you becoming a new convert, but will make a somewhat contrarian comment.

if you are getting great results with your Mach 3, and are considering a DE in an effort to get an even better end result, you may be disappointed (my best cartridge shaves are as good as my best DE shaves). if, however, you are having problems with the Mach 3 shaves then a DE might be just what the doctor ordered as many users report closer shaves with less ingrown hairs, irritation, etc.

regardless of the end result, i find the traditional razors giving a much more comfortable shave and the hobby aspect of trying different tools and software is great fun. the only downside to me is inattention with a Fusion does not yield nearly as much damage as carelessness with a DE.

 

[Niles]

Welcome to B&B.

 

[Emanon]

i am all for you becoming a new convert, but will make a somewhat contrarian comment.

if you are getting great results with your Mach 3, and are considering a DE in an effort to get an even better end result, you may be disappointed (my best cartridge shaves are as good as my best DE shaves). if, however, you are having problems with the Mach 3 shaves then a DE might be just what the doctor ordered as many users report closer shaves with less ingrown hairs, irritation, etc.

regardless of the end result, i find the traditional razors giving a much more comfortable shave and the hobby aspect of trying different tools and software is great fun. the only downside to me is inattention with a Fusion does not yield nearly as much damage as carelessness with a DE.

Now THAT is a great post!True, true, true.

Shaving cream aside because the commercial canned stuff is garbage; aside from price, the typical cart gives just as good a shave, maybe better and with allot less chance of nicks.
I have said this before here many times in my short time as a member. I use a brush a bowl, soap/cream and a DE and I get great shaves and great enjoyment from it. BUT! Let me tell you. I get a fantastic shave...BBS...from a Mach 3 and King Of Shaves Shaving gel faster and equal to or better than any DE shave.

I also shave my head and never use DE. But my shaves are great. Fusion and whatever cream. I've used many creams all with good results. Some better than others but none really bad.

 

[InfernoOrangeSS]

Hi & welcome to B&B!

I was a lot like you. I wanted to try safety razor shaving, but was afraid it was not for me. I didn't want to shell out hundreds of dollars on the latest and greatest items only to find out it wasn't for me. (Unfortunately for me, I hadn't found B&B at the time.). What I did was buy a Van Der Hagan shave kit, (bowl, brush, and soap.), and a Lord safety razor from Amazon. It think total expense was about $20 or less. It gave me a serviceable shave, but more importantly it let me know I wanted to get more into it. Had I known then what I know now, I'd have bought a vintage razor, soaps, etc. from the B/S/T here. Lots of great information for you to learn on this site. Good luck with your shaves!!

 

[framos242]

Welcome. As the others have mentioned, go through the links. They were helpful to me. Re-read them again. Post any questions you may have and the members will help you out as best they can. It can look intimidating but it's more time consuming because you're going try to find your shaving technique that will work best for you especially in the beginning. Take your time. Don't rush it and give it at least a month or 2 so you can develop your skills. Good luck!

 

[JimK]

Welcome! A few thoughts to share... Mach 3 didn't happen because the shaving community was desperate for a better shave. It came about because Gillette was desperate to build a more reliable, and more fruitful bridge to our wallets. Marketing departments are pretty darn good at what they do, and the wet shaving global picture illustrates that very well. The only reason that we still have DE razors and blades is because many world markets are lagging behind the major markets in spendable cash by decades. It is in the best interest of the various blade companies to serve those markets with cheap, and outstanding products until those local economies expand enough for the next wave of "less for more money" , and they do so very well. I came into the Atra, Mach 3, and other expensive tools from the opposite perspective as you. I grew up with DE shaving, and switched to the more "modern" alternative in lockstep with the various marketing departments offerings. What a waste of my time.... Try DE shaving with a good razor handle (anything with a good quality, and nothing extreme for you). Forget Feather blades for now. Buy a pack of 100 Astra Superior Platinum blades for about $10, and start shaving. Soft Soap Aloe pump hand soap, and warm water works fine as a shave soap. You can (and should) try brushes, soaps, and a multitude of other blades down the road. Meanwhile, use a mild Merkur (or similar) handle, Astra blades to start (trust me here), and learn how to shave with a DE razor... It is not a steep learning curve, and you will be amazed that a 10 cent blade can give you four days to a week of perfect shaves without irritation after your hands learn how to do the job right. Getting your hands and face in tune is the key. Never again will your razor clog. Ever. Never again will you spend a boatload of cash on a blade that lasts a short while, can't shave the fuzz off of the back of your neck cleanly, and can't deal with you forgetting to shave for a day or three. You can even quick shave with a splash of water, and a bit of hand soap on a rushed morning, and not bleed. Buy a good razor, buy some Astra blades, and shave for three months. Then, after you offer me a high five for pointing you in the right direction, go for the gusto, and start enjoying everything that DE shaving offers. It really is a personal place in our daily routine that can be enjoyed like no other. Good luck!

 

[Kramerica]

Jump in and try the DE. You'll be glad you did!

A Mach 3 can give me a perfectly decent shave, but the only way I every got a true DFS/BBS shave from a Mach 3 or any of the carts was to shave a 3-4 day beard growth. I suppose the length of the whiskers allowed the cart to really dig in and get the hair shaved close to the skin.

With my DE, I get that same BBS smooth shave nearly every day, regardless of how long my whiskers are.

For me, a Mach 3 = a very simple, effortless SAS, with an occasional DFS. My DE, with just a little effort and time, gives a DFS and BBS most days.

The choice, for me, is obvious.

 

[wrinkles2]

Welcome aboard!!

 

[Fatestorm]

i am all for you becoming a new convert, but will make a somewhat contrarian comment.

if you are getting great results with your Mach 3, and are considering a DE in an effort to get an even better end result, you may be disappointed (my best cartridge shaves are as good as my best DE shaves). if, however, you are having problems with the Mach 3 shaves then a DE might be just what the doctor ordered as many users report closer shaves with less ingrown hairs, irritation, etc.

regardless of the end result, i find the traditional razors giving a much more comfortable shave and the hobby aspect of trying different tools and software is great fun. the only downside to me is inattention with a Fusion does not yield nearly as much damage as carelessness with a DE.

I agree with this, with another note. Everyone is different, so you may be a shaving Wunderkind and be able to pick it up instantly, or it may take you a while. If you want to try it, then you will have to spent time learning technique. Do NOT think that this means you will be cutting yourself left right and center. That's an understandable fear, but that isn't what learning technique is about. It's likely--likely--that you won't cut yourself at all.

What I mean by technique is, that your first shaves won't be as close as what you're used to. They just won't be. Some people it takes a week to get great; for me, I've been at it off and on for a year and I've steadily improved. But the point of technique is that, once you've got it, you've got it--and the closest, easiest, and cheapest shaves of your life are at hand. Until then, even though the shaves may be enjoyable, they probably won't be as close.

By all means, I think you ought to try it if you're interested. You can get rid of most of the kit you buy on the B/S/T here if you find it's not to your liking (I think there is a 50 post minimum for posting on the B/S/T). I didn't know about the Garry's Sample starter kit when I started. I think it's a great deal and a good place to start.

Anyhow don't let us pressure you. All I mean is, it will probably take you a while to get close shaves like you are used to--*probably*. It's not something you can do once and then decide if it's for you or not.

Though, as some above have said--you *can* absolutely move to making your own lather with cream or soap + brush even with Mach 3. In a way, that's completely detachable from using a DE razor. You could use your DE razor with a can of Barbasol if you wanted to (though most here won't).