What's my likely failure- 1st ST8 go?

[natchez]

Been wet shaving for years and DE for many of those. Also injector, cartridge- typical middle aged experience level. Never had any serious issues; only an occasional weeper or nick. Always end up CCS or better.

Picked up a ST8 on the B/S/T and watched the vids. Tried a shave with the ST8 and ended up looking like my face was in a cage with an angry cat. Lots of nicks, scratches, some burn, etc. Unpleasant and unsightly.

I used the same prep I always do, shower- good and hot water for a few minutes, no lather issues- better than usual- I even used a combo of Proraso and KMF to make sure I had a good lather.

What are your thoughts as to the reason why I looked like Tabby won the fight paws down? Thanks.

 

[michiganlover]

I am a newbie to even the idea of using a straight, but I have played around with a Shavette, with similar results to yours.

I would say the scratches are from moving the blade sideways in a slicing motion. The blade cuts skin quite well when used in that manner, and the result is inch long "scratches" to your face.

 

[LarryAndro]

One of my early mistakes was hurrying past the WTG pass. Now, after the WTG pass I test by running my hand over my face in the direction of the shave. If I feel stubble, I relather and repeat the WTG pass again. When everything feels smooth, I go to XTG, etc.

After the WTG pass, with XTG and especially ATG, if the stubble is too high the razor dives down too deeply into the skin. You then shave whiskers AND skin!

This is just one possibility. But, try focusing on WTG and see if the rest of the shave improves.