Straight Razor

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I am thinking about trying to learn to shave with a straight razor. I hear it gives a great shave and looks d@mn cool. Anyone around here ever given it a try?

Here a website that should help.

http://www.artofmanliness.com/2009/10/0 ... zor-shave/

Yea, I go on there a lot. Any firsthand experience?

Make sure you've calm hands, I know this seems obvious. * which it is * However, one time when I was shaving, I made a sudden motion with the razor on my skin. Ended up getting a big cut which started to bleed quite a bit. Also, before you shave get a feel for how your hair grows. If you can get a feel for how your hair grows, you shave with the grain and get a much better shave for it.

Been there - done that. Be very, very careful. The nicks are nasty.

Because my wife likes me better with my beard.

I shaved with a straight razor anytime we were in port while I was in the Navy (but straight razors weren't allowed on our boat). It definitely makes for a smoother face for longer. It does take some getting used too. Nicking yourself with one of these can be really nasty. You could end up skinning a good chunk off. I have a beard now, so I don't use the straight razor anymore. If I ever go back to shaving, I will probably go with the straight.

A few tips:
Shave BEFORE you have coffee (or any caffeine or nicotine).
Keep your blade very sharp.
You don't have to press hard. At all.
I'd also recommend still shaving your neck with a disposable or electric until you get the hang of it.
Take your time. Do not rush.
NEVER shave against the grain. It pulls the edge more towards the skin ever so slightly, making it more likely to nick yourself. Plus you are more likely to end up with ingrown hairs.
Don't shave when/where you might get bumped into (i.e. next to a door or when someone is moving around you).

And don't shave while driving to work.

Did you use antique razors or modern brands?

I used a "vintage," but it was new in 1998. Mine came from DOVO Steelware (a German company). I used a hollow grind, round point with a transverse stabilizer. That is probably the best for a full shave. I you are looking for something to get more detail (like a goatee or precise moustache trim), there are better options (although they take more skill, I've heard).

I still have it and the sharpening strop in a box somewhere.

I'm depressed all the time. I wouldn't trust myself with a straight razor.

^ That's what I mean. I could never keep a sword or gun around. Again, I'm depressed all the time and don't trust myself to be armed.

I shave with a straight. I made the switch from regular shavers to safety razors. I got comfortable with that, then tried a Merkur R41(safety razor that can skin you), before finally moving on to straights. I joined a forum, mentioned my curiosity and someone in my area messaged me and I went out there to learn how to hone, strop, and maintain razors. Then, it was time for a shave. He shaved one side of my face so I could feel how the blade is supposed to feel on thhe face(very important). Do NOT be ashamed or feel weird having an expert shave for you. You'll regret any safety step you missed when your cheek falls open(I say fall because it's that sharp). I shaved the other side and felt a sense of accomplishment. I've shaved 30 times with a straight and only had one cut. More like a scratch from not starting the movement before contact under my chin. Wasn't even significant enough to burn with aftershave. A good quality, less dangerous razor will cost you at least $70 used. I see cheap ones in catalogues for $30 that I wouldn't dream of using. I'm very inexperienced at this so I'd rather spend $100 now, and worry about bargain hunting later. I have two straights. A 5/8, and a 6/8(inch). Start with a 5/8 because it is easier to learn with due to the smaller blade. ALSO, start with a round pointed tip. Makes it easier to avoid lopping off your ear. Here are a couple diagrams to put things into perspective...

http://www.asharperrazor.com/wp-content ... points.png
Get shaving soap, not creme. If you're interested in starting, join an active straight shaving forum and see if any people in your area want to help you. No shame in asking for help.

Never tried it. Never will. Even if I had steady hands, which I don't, I would still be terrified of accidentally sinking the blade into the jugular or carotid. Unfortunately, my facial hair is so thick that I can't use safety razors either (I tried it and it was like trying to cut steel wool with plastic toddler scissors, even with plenty of shaving cream), so I have to use an electric. Which sucks, because I look like I have a three-day stubble even two minutes after I shave, but it's all I can do.