Any fellow wet shavers here? What type of soap/brush/DE, SE or Straight do you use?

I used to use a Wilkenson Sword double edge blade in my Dad’s metal twist down shaver when I started out…that’s what he said was best. He claimed you could sharpen one by lowering it into a glass cup and carefully running it around the inside on an angle. If I did shave now, I definitely would go with a straight razor, leather strop, and nice soap, etc. I just trim up a few times a year. Btw, What happened to the term ‘little shaver’? Don’t hear that much any more

I wet shave, but don’t use anything too fancy. Got my Razor from Greens of Leeds ages ago, but it’s not the best quality as there’s spots of rust showing up, I use a Body Shop brush because they’re cheap and synthetic, and I’m currently using some Wilkinson Sword soap; am planning on Buying an Edwin Jagger D/E with an imitation ivory handle and some Taylor’s cream soon.

Don’t mean to derail your thread, Stokes, but what would be a quality moustache wax?

I got this set some years ago as a gift: http://www.jpeterman.com/Mens-1903-Collection At the time it included a stand to hold the brush and an included safety razor. Now they don’t sell the razors with the set. Thankfully its blades are compatible with one of the major brands. I’ve never tried a straight razor, except from a barber; and barbers who give shaves are rare. I have a fog-free mirror that mounts in the shower with suction cups. I shave in the shower. Of the 1903 consumable products, the only one I continually rebuy is the cream. I prefer a different aftershave.

clubman is the only wax I’ve found. If you can’t get wax hair gel works I hear

when i had my stache i was using hndlebars mustache wax. It worked fine for me so i never had to go out and find another brand. Why fix something if it is not broken. I am pretty sure you can still buy it online just type hndlebar mustache wax into google.

I shave with a straight razor and use cheap soap like Williams or whatever I find about town. I like it, but considered using a safety razor instead.

I’ve been wet shaving for a couple of years now. I have several straights and a couple DEs. I usually use Proraso cream or Mama bears lime soap, a vulfix brush, and a Merkur HD or a Dovo “en vogue” straight with nice micarta scales (depending on whether or not I’m in a hurry). I usually use Feather blades in the double edge.

I’ve got a 1940s Gillette Tech Razor (my late grandfather’s, in fact) with whatever cheapo DE blades I can find. Was using Williams mug soap, which is the only stuff I could find locally; recently found that Bath & Body Works sells C.O. Bigelow tube shaving cream (manufactured by Proraso) so I’m eager to try that. Recently picked up an antique straight razor, hollow-blade and appears to be a 6/8, but it’ll have to be professionally rehoned and I’d rather wait until I’ve got a little more finesse with the DE before I move up…

@Bart: Clubman is the only one I have seen around, if you can’t find it I will mail you some. I have been using a Schick Krona for some time. Recently just picked up a Bakelite 3pc and a Gillette. I have some Wilkinson’s (now made by Energizer in Germany), very good blades. Before that all I could find was overpriced ASR’s. I have some soaps and creams, but I do prefer Williams.

I made the switch last year; bought a Merkur HD safety razor along with a badger brush. Mostly been using proraso or uncle conk soap. Now I only use my old cartridge razors when I’m traveling or in a hurry.

@snuffegnugen: Have you checked out Badger and Blade?

I’ve got a Merkur as well. I did use a Mach 3 for years, but it used to irritate the hell out of my neck, so I switched to a single blade and the improvement is massive. It annoys me that they market these 4/5 blade cartridges as causing less irritation when the opposite is true for most people I’ve spoken to. I try to use a badger and soap if I have time, or if not just a can…doesn’t smell half so good though. The real joy of having a proper shave is taking the time to do a proper job with the proper equipment.

I was assured by a barber in Venice that the best shave (wet of course) is obtained by keeping the blade horizontal at all times and shaving in long straight lines of motion down the face and neck until only the upper lip is left. This is then finished off with smaller downward strokes. Never shave upwards. Most men change the angle of the blade or for the neck and chin shave upwards using repeated little strokes that irritate the skin. Venetian shaving is best. Always shave top-down; it is the cleanest, quickest method and there is never skin irritation like razor burn and certainly no cuts.

Yep, I do 3 top-down or north-south passes, washing and re-lathering between each.

I also like "wet"shaving! I use a Philips wet&dry electric shaver with the Nivea shaving gel which it is filled with. Push a little button and it squirts the gel onto the blades. I must add that I only clean my neck (throat) once or twice a week as I sport an almost full beard.

What catagory would depilatory shaving fall…wet or dry? I’ve never tried it, but understand it to be a napalm -type slurry that is rubbed on the face and melts the hair away. Not as classic as a straight razor, by any means.

I use an old Gilette travel tech (I believe it is called that). If you haven’t used “Feather” brand blades, give them a shot. They are the sharpest and longest lasting I have used. Proraso and a Vulfix brush get the job done.

@Bart: The “Magic” shave skips right over wet shaving and joins the ranks of multi blades and electrics in the “torture” section. From what I have heard, it is pretty painful stuff and causes ingrowns like nothing else. @Biz: I have heard good things about feathers, but I have also heard that they are damn sharp! I like my Wilkinson’s at the moment and I’m still exploring different blades, I am sure to pick up a pack or two of them soon.

I disagree about never reversing direction. You can run your fingers around on your stubble and quickly tell that your hair doesn’t all grow in the same direction. Therefore, to get that baby-smooth skin, you have to attack the hairs from all angles. I generally do 1 or 2 downward passes, always using clean, long strokes. The last lather I reverse everything and go up the neck and sides. I never get irritation from this and I know from experimenting when I’m short on time that I stay stubble free for longer when I include the final reverse shave. I’m working on my winter beard right now though so I guess I’ll bow out of this discussion.

Dang reverse- shaving- hippies! Gots no tolerance for them folk!

I’ve been interested in getting a straight razor for a while, but the cost of one is far too much for this broke college student. And I’ve not shave in almost two years, not even a trim, so it’s a bit late to start now. Of course, I wish my beard grew in evenly. I’ve got somewhere around 4-5" of hair around my chin and a full mustache, but for some reason the sideburns just don’t seem to grow at all.

Bearded for the last 20 years, shaving is just one hassle too much in the morning. I keep itto a neat goatee though usually. If anyone has ever privately thought this site is a wee bit eccentric have a look at all about beards.org.

@shikitohno: You can try honey and chicken droppings. You put some honey on the outside and chicken droppings on the inside. The honey pulls form the outside and the chicken droppings pushes from the inside. I’ve never tried this myself but I was made to believe it works like a song (don’t know the name of the song).

I’ve been using a cheap, store brand safety razor for a couple of years now mainly for cost reasons. I wasn’t even aware there was an online safety razor community until I read this thread and did some Googling. I guess there is no end to the things people can be enthusiastic about

‘online safety razor community’. That must be one hell of a place to be. Mind you, its beaten into first place as the world’s dullest club by the M25 group. The M25 is London’s orbital road, a place of utter tedium and despair and there are people who spend their leisure time talking and, more mind boggling, driving round it. Better than going out and robbing people so God bless em for that, but still…

@Snuffster: Badger & Blade is a very vibrant forum, here are some stats: Members: 32,451 Threads: 158,663 Posts: 2,421,615

Clearly, who am I to argue? I have posted a seperate thread to explore these issues with the membership.

I used to have a straight razor but my hands were too shaky. I use my grandfather’s beaver-fur brush and williams soap, but for a razor I use that 5-blade thing Gilette makes. They’re expensive but last a really long time.

@Snuffster: On closer inspection the B&B members behaviour seems to be very similar to our own. Many of them collect razors and I’ve come across several “hoarders” of razor blades who’s collections seem to be worshipped with an awe and fervour that a snuffhouse noob might display in response to a photo of a substantial snuff collection. Far from being critical of them, I actually see them as our brothers and have become rather worried by the realisation that the male hunter-gatherer instinct has been whittled away and reduced to the hoarding of tobacco and shaving paraphernalia

Haha! Well said! Bob posted a video a couple months back from the Onion on freak behavior and pondered how close snuff-gatherers were to the edge…I can’t recall what it was on now, though

I remember someone talking about a mustard forum and there were many similar “compulsive” behaviors.

I use King of Shaves and Aldi store brand cartridge blades and they work well, I don’t shave everyday though. Have a proper badger brush, no idea of make, a Chinese boar brush and a couple Wilkinson cheapos and they’re all grand, badger being most versatile. For lather I use Palmolive cream, Boots soap stick and Total Shaving Solution oil. I go to barbershop for hot towel shaves.

That was it, mark!

Google GARLICK CLUBS and see what you get!

I think it comes down to making something mundane into something interesting. I must say that before diving into shaving with a Double Edge, I hated shaving. Now my morning routine makes the event enjoyable. In turn, discussing other things shaving related is now enjoyable. Discussing everything from the multitude of blades, razors, soaps, creams, oils, after shaves, etc. makes the event enjoyable as well. It is also a conscious effort to return to a time when men were men and men were gentlemen.

@shikitohno Have you considered Rogaine

Im not critical of anyone, I think people with odd interests make the world more interesting. If I wasn’t on here so much (which is a statement in itself) doubtless I would be a member of the razor blade club. Dull is not neccessarily bad.

I’ve heard of people buying up every razor, brush, or cream they can get their hands on. I don’t get it. To each his own, I guess. I’m off to buy my 325th Zippo now. @cstokes4 Definitely try the feather razors. They are especially good for coarse hair.

@snuffster: Except in the case of your razor, in which case it’s always bad.

Yes, my razor has been in a drawer for 20 years:)

Hehe, I’m a member of B&B myself, although I don’t visit there often. Given my limited budget, I’d rather stock up on snuff than razors! In the event of the Apocalypse, I’d rather be bearded and calm than clean-shaven and having nic fits…

Lol I agree

Daily razor is Gillette 1949 Superspeed, with Astra blades. My day off / Weekend razor is a Thiers-Issard Straight Razor, and or my Wapi. Brush and Soap seems to be my preference i’m a huge fan of mitchels woolfat, and tabac, Neither have a fabulous scent, but hey I normally have some Kendel brown or Santa Domingo in my nose so who cares about scent of the cream!.

duplicate post - how to delete it?

I have a new appreciation for the wet shave experience. After decades of using disposables, i really like the feel of a solid tool like the old Gillettes. It makes me nostalgic for the way we used to make things in the USA. With a little practice, these old relics will deliver an astonishingly close shave. The extra time it takes is a luxury in today’s hectic world. But there is something meditative about the routine, and I find it time well spent. I have my dad’s old Gillettes, a '50 superspeed black tip with aluminum handle. Also his '66 flair tip. I bought a few others on ebay and really don’t think I’m in danger of amassing a huge collection.

@cstokes4 I had a look at the badgerandblade forum and the result … I ordered some quality material to replace my old no name brush and blade. Great forum with lots of good advice/reviews btw. On it’s way to my doorstep: DE Razor Edwin Jagger DE89L Edwin Jagger Silver Tip Badger Shaving Brush Truefitt and Hill Luxury Shaving Soap Mama Bears Patchouli Glycerin Shaving Soap Taylor of Old Bond Street Rose Shaving Cream Derby, Astra and Feather blades (got them for free from Traditionalshaving in the UK)

@snuff-belgium: B&B does the same thing to me! Looks like you have some very nice stuff on the way. Right now I am focussing on expanding my blade selection and buying more antique DE’s and SE’s, I just picked up an Ever Ready on ebay today for a whopping $7.

@cstokes4 I wanted to start with some good stuff but I definitely can see my interest expanding in the future. Looked up the Ever Ready, very nice and at that price a steal. I’ll start with the blades I get with my order and might try some feathers, crystals an personna next. If I find some I like I’ll probably order a pack of 100 from someone on the forum. The selection of blades available here in the shops is limited to Gilette. I find wet shaving one of the maybe more old traditional things but it gives great satisfaction, taking some time for yourself in this superfast society. Enjoying some Neffa Ifrikia at the moment.

Go easy with those Feathers.

I have a very old Wilkinsons “cut throat”, wonder if it’s worth anything?

I was just browsing around over at badgerandblades and I think I will refrain from going there again as I do not need another costly habit at this time, once I get my finances back to normal however I just might look into it some more.

There is also a UK based eurocentric shave site called “The Shaving Room” (one word) - why not pay us a visit?

I am a wet shaver. Started with Dovo straights but am currently into the 1904 classic DE by Merkur.

I’m a non shaver. Very economical, more money for snuff.

I tried straight razor shaving 30 years ago but didn’t like it, it just didn’t work. Now I learned that was because the razor wasn’t shave ready. But now that I’m retired I have more time and started reading on some forums and as expected I’ve parted with some of my money. Just yesterday I received a package from Neil Miller in the UK with 2 very nice vintage razors and a strop. Had my first shave, the cheeks went ok, no cuts, the rest I did with my DE razor, it will take lots of practice but should be fun.

Wooah, I could never trust myself, I reckon my jugular would be through in 10 seconds flat.

Shaving doesn’t normally make me wet…errrm not quite the same topic

@snuff-belgium: I am slowly building my straight supplies. I have a hone and a razor, now I just need a strop. Right now I am still too tied up on collecting DE’s to worry about it.

God I hate this thread!! I’ve been fascinated by antique/vintage razors since i was a wee lad(that might actually be an indication of some deep seeded probs haha). Anywho the more i read, the more my hoarding fingers begin to itch…if i start a new collection my wife will prolly kill me, so I’m DEFINATELY staying away from razors!! I did however learn to shave with a Gillette Fatboy and Wiklinson Sword blades…my daddy uses this set up to this day.

I finally purchased a Merkur DE. It’s so cold and I work in old warehouses and outside so I can’t bring myself to fully shave yet…just trim around my beard. But yeah, it beats the disposables hands down!

Water and mid-priced disposable razors here. :-s

@Bart: Glad to hear it! Did you get some Wilkinson’s Sword blades? They sell at Wally’s, 10 for $1.76! Made in Germany these days. I use a disposable about once a month, if I am in a hurry. Once the technique is learned, you can’t beat a DE. No ingrowns, no nicks, no razor burn.

I got the Merkur Super SS blades. I will have to look for the swords for old times sake. Some day I hope to graduate to a straight. I keep the razor high up in the bathroom but a couple times a week, I take the blade out and let my two boys lather up and try their hand at shaving.

Get them started the right way!

Personally - Gillette 4 blade thingy (I know its fuelled by advertising) but in the 25 years I have shaved with a blade, this one is the best. Soap - use Crabtree and Evelyn shave soap in wooden pot and a badger hair brush I inherited from my grandfather. Works a treat - super lather!

Paul, you know the badger brush is the only thing saving you from being sent to shaving hell

I know that… Hang on - I use block soap too, not that fizzy can stuff!

I am goin to shaving in hell in a bucket baby…Schick Hydro 5 with Schick Hydro shaving gel!! But I’m sure enjoyin the ride!!

This thread has frightened me so badly that I am allowing my beard to get long enough to plat chicken bones in like a druid.

Oh snuffster…the voodoo that you do!!

Lol this thread did inspire me to buy an inexpensive brush and some shavinf soap but im still using the quatro for now.

Alright finaly going to take the plung. Any suggestions on a decent razor?

I’ve been VERY happy with my Merkur DE if that’s the route you’re going. I could use a better brush though.

yeah!

thanks

I use an old gillette fat boy safety, a cheap burma brush, and williams mug soap for most of my shaves. Sometimes I like to use Col. Conk’s almond or sandlewood soap as well when I can find them local, for the aftershave I use Conks almond, or just oldspice classic. @FischTix If you use the Hydros check out this setup, modern razor head with a weighted handle and a classic kit. http://www.shaveshop.com/cu177bur.html

Don’t bother with all that shaving lark… It’s natural, so let it grow - speaking as a very hairy man myself, beards rule! Of course, you may find that women and children consider you to be weird and creepy looking, but that’s a small price to pay when you have the benefit of epic facial fuzz!

Earthbound89 Thanks man…that’s a hella nice looking set up…great price to! I might have to invest in that…I might actually look forward to shaving with that bad boy!!

Yea theres nothing like a good shave! lol

That be true, Sloth. I’ve had a full beard for around 8-9 years now…I just use the razor to trim under and around a bit. I think it’s common knowledge that bearded men are happier, more successful , and better well-rounded individuals.* (Also look up “Babies with Beards” for an interesting read. There are beardlings among us. *I currently misplaced my source for this information.

I’ve started to shave regularly in shower now and it works well for my tough stubble. Must get a proper non-foggy mirror though.

I use the Merkur 34c Heavy duty with Feather blades and blue beards revenge shaving cream.The feather blades work great in the Merkur just got to be careful or you’ll need a blood transfusion after your shave lol

I use an Edwin Jagger DE89 and an old Melchior 4/8" straight. My current soap is an old bowl of Mem Company English Leather that was my father’s. My brush was his too. I used to hate shaving because of irritation, but switching to soap and brush really did the trick for me. I love my DE89. The chrome is just beautiful and it’s very easy to use. I’ve still got a ways to go with my straight, though – I find it rather difficult to shave around the mouth with it, but I guess that will pass eventually.

After reading this thread I did some research and went out and bought a DE razor and decided to step my shave game up! I get razor burn bad on my neck and this should help

The key to DE shaving is speed and pressure. Very little of both.

Let the heft of the razor do the work, then even slow passes.

@Bob: go with a Merkur or a vintage Gillette which can be found in just about any antique store.

awesome. That seems to be the general idea most people have. So even if I could get something better at the same price. well I know I’ll be happy with the purchase. Thanks guys.

I’m selling my silver snuffbox dating 1854 (more info on my snuffbox –> http://tinyurl.com/3qvcbx6 ) Exchanged it with Gsnuff for 2 razors.

I’ve been shaving with straight razors found in junk/antique shops ever since I was a boy. My Mum bought me a modern razor with lots of blades in a cartridge when I started to get fluff on my lip, but when the blades it came with went blunt wouldn’t get me any more. I went to buy some, did the maths and realised I’d be better off doing it the old fasioned way.

Its funny this topic would be revised. I was recently looking into the straight razor, strop, and brush sets. My motivation was money. A high quality set seems like it would pay for itself in the long run. I can also see the appeal of nostalgia to the shaving ritual. I can’t afford to buy a good set atm but I do like to browse the web and see some of the fine quality razors and brushes available. I was surprised to find an entire community of hobbyists into serious shaving. For now I’ll have to settle for my Fusion 5 and a can of Barbasol.

@ spyro No need to spend a lot of money to get started: http://straightrazorplace.com/beginners/43930-shopping-list-beginners.html only thing is you have to do some reading if you want to start out right (see wiki on the above web site) and willing to practise for a month of 2-3 before you become proficient at it. Some of the best shavers I have cost me almost nothing (I did the honing myself but there are people who are very good at honing razors and don’t ask money for it, just postage), also a good brush and a practise strop are all you need to get started. greets ron

Thanks for the info. If I ever quit blowing money on excess snuff I’ll probably jump in.

I LOOOOVE my Merkur and C.O. Bigelow Cream. SO refreshing to shave. Since I switched to DE shaving no more razor burn and bumps!! Perfect shave everytime. More ppl need to switch IMO. I also ENJOY shaving now its refreshing! It used to be such a chore. Thanks guys for this thread it really really helped me out and got me into it! I owe so much to this forum. Everyone here seems like good people.

I know it’s awesome. I got my Merkur this May. Seriously shaving went from a chore I could muster doing maybe two to three times a week and always something I hated to do. Now I love shaving it’s so much fun. It’s like a mini spa for my face. I’am still not ready for the straight razor no sir.

@bob agreed. No straight for me either!

I know it sounds strange but I shaved my wife’s legs last night with my double edge Merkur to show her how close one blade can get. She believes now.

yes that is so true. My girlfriend and me share my razor.

This thread is totally inspiring me…I tend to get ingrowing hairs and the past week or so I have had a couple of really nasty ones that were very uncomfortable (not to mention unsightly). From what I have been reading, thanks to the links here, a DE razor should help to prevent that sort of thing. I am gonna order a Merkur tomorrow.

I’ve not shaved in 18 months. I’ve always hated doing it even with a DE, I refuse to pay Gillette or Wilkinsons ridiculous prices for cartridge razors, so switched to DE. It gave a better shave but like I say it’s something I’ve never liked doing. I trim my beard once a month, I’m happy with that. Stefan

DE shaving is absolutely the best. I’ve been looking for this kind of shave all my life. I’m finally happy with it.

My name is gsnuff and I am recovering from RAD (razor acquisition disorder). I have a collection of 30 or so DE’s, mostly Gillette, and 10 or so straights. My favorite DE’s are the ABC handles that I screw onto the head of a Tech. I know… blasphemy Card carrying member of Badger and Blade (of course). Now that I have recovered, I use one DE made in my birth year as well as one straight. Oh… and I have a beard

I have a shell ABC, damn fine shave.

I LOVE the look of the entire shell ABC. For me, it’s too close a shave and that why I use the Tech head. Im told that the early heads, like the ABC’s, were made for the thicker blades produced back then (1907’ish). The result is a slightly different angle of attack. For those who like the closer shave it can be down right perfect!

I use my late grandfather’s '40s-vintage Gillette Tech Razor and corner-store DE blades, and love them. I WOULD have acquisition disorder but budget prohibits, hehe. I have a modest badger brush and have tried Williams soap and Proraso tube shaving cream (the only stuff available locally), but to be honest I’ve seen no problem with using plain old bar soap and shaving in the shower just like I did with my disposable before I saw the light. In a perfect world I’d master the art of the old-skool wet shave and I’d have a 7-day set of Dovo straights in a mahogany stand (next to my shaving mirror lit with twin Aladdin oil lamps, a strop hanging from the wall and a hot towel steamer), but in the meantime this method works…

@James S. - I hear ya. I made it 80% of the way to ‘perfect world’. I also get a perfectly good shave, and enjoy it, with a tech, brush and pretty much any soap will do. I do use my favorite straight once a week to touch up a beard line by the jaw and enjoy the 3 minutes of stropping that requires. Now, there WAS a time when a LARGE collection of DE’s, straights, brushes and soaps gave me much enjoyment… I was a collector. Im happy to be over it I stopped just short of the 7 day set. oh…and the one other thing I kept in my ‘simple’ routine is Thayers witch hazel right after rinsing the soap off. The simple things…

I crave simplicity so much I keep threatening that I’m gonna sell my Saturn Ion and get a Model T roadster. No water pump, no oil pump, gravity-fed fuel system, crank start, magneto electrics, and hey I work at a Ford facility so they can’t really complain, after all I’d be driving one of their products! Unfortunately that form of mechanical simplicity is not financially simple to keep running, I mean you can’t go to Auto Zone and ask for half a pound of babbit metal when you want to redo the bearings, any more than they’d have a transmission band to fit the planetary, hehehe…

and THATS why I miss windows 3.1

I haven’t read through the whole thread, so I’m not sure it was mentioned, but I noticed someone mentioned moustache wax. While Clubman is the most readily available, it never worked well for me. I can’t recommend highly enough Oregon Wild Hair Moustache Wax. Google it. It works vastly better, it’s real wax, it’s less messy, and it even smells nice. Totally worth it if you’re going to wax your whiskers. As far as shaving is concerned, for quick shaves I just use a little Shave Secret oil; for a better shave, I just use regular ol’ mug shave soap with a drop or two of Shave Secret oil in the lather. Couple that with Wilkinson Sword double-edge razors, and you got a cheap, but good shave.

@Gsnuff: Even that was too fancy for me! I can get anything I need from Windows Explorer using every keyboard shortcut I can manage and I think all this fancy graphics and effects of the modern OS’s are for people who probably have to tear open the condom box to read the illustrated instructions inside too…

This thread is awesome. I’m going to probably get a DE Fatboy but can’t afford much else so I’ll have to settle for a boar brush. Is it a HUGE difference than badger?

Not really. Badgers are just more traditional. I have really good Chinese wild boar brush bought almost 20 years ago and it’s brilliant, as good my late father’s badger.

@snuffpuff - YES! its much stiffer and coarser and thats why some people even prefer it! Others do like something a bit softer and go for the badger. The differences between the finer types of badger hair are smaller IMO. In hind sight, I might pay more to get any badger brush that will last, but not for fancier hair (like silver tip). YMMV!

I have to say that I got my Merkur a week ago and after some positively *evil* razor burn on the first shave, I am really starting to get the hang of it. I can see what people mean when they say that once you get the hang of shaving with a DE you never want to go back to the 'orrible plastic things. I have already succumbed and ordered a 50’s Gillette Superspeed online just to see what it is like. :-/ As far as boar brushes are concerned. I got a boar brush (Omega 49) and although I have no basis for comparison I think it is great. Even in the hands of a noob like me it is a real lather machine. It is apparently the ‘brush of the month’ (or whatever they call it) at Badger and Blade, although I didn’t know that when I bought it. Still, check out the thread (link below). I reckon that for £8 you can’t go wrong: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/242262-Brush-Chronicles-No.-10-Omega-Pro-10049-Boar

For those interested… Found a GREAT YouTube Wetshave Guru. I’ve learned an ASSLOAD watching his tutorials (and they are even funny & entertaining)! http://www.youtube.com/user/mantic59

Mantic also has a blog on blogspot.

I’m with sloth on this.

snuffster is that a picture of Bill Bailey as a smurf?

Someone mentioned earlier in this thread about B&B, and similarities with this forum. Not only am I a wet-shaver and I use snuff, but I also use a fountain pen and frequently visit the FPN site. I think the users of the three above-mentioned forums definitely have some similarities in what hobbies we choose. One interesting thing, to me anyway, about these 3 hobbies is that they are regarded as anachronistic by most people.

Just got a new fountain pen for work a few months ago. Helps a lot with my carpal (I do a lot of reporting).

@tin_can(man). Snuff and Wet-shaving (and to a lesser extent fountain pens) are things that anachronistic that make me wonder why they ever got replaced.

Just ordered a lord l6 and some feather blades both seem to be popular over at B&B. I have just started shaving again in the last couple of months due to a new job had a beard for ten year previous to that so gave away my Gillette super speed. Wish I hadn’t now I see the prices they go for on ebay. I still have my omega boar brush though and have purchased some Wilkinson dish soap which I always liked. smells horrid but is a smooth shave .

DE is where its at. Less expensive then straights and still fun.

@theratroom: Go easy with the feathers, not sure a Lord is the right razor to put those blades in.

I will take that into consideration and take the first shave slowly thanks @cstokes4

Watch the pressure as well!

even with every blade I’ve tried gliding seems better then pressure.

I will. Even with my Wilkinson classic I don’t apply much pressure any way.

Great tips for wetshaving newbies on this thread at Badger&Blade. http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php/84797-What-I-have-learned-If-I-was-starting-over-what-would-I-do-differently

Great thread @snuffnpuff

They say “let the weight of the razor do the pressing” but when I do that, I get nothing but crap for a shave. I HAVE to press down a bit when I’m shaving with my DE Merkur. You have to be careful, but once you have some experience you’re fine… Also, C.O. Bigelow Barber Shaving cream is the BEST cream I’ve ever used. SOOOO refreshing!

My current combo: ‘Merkur Progress’ wet razor - Taylor’s sandalwood shaving soap - Penhaligons aftershave.

@transistor: Your blade angle might be off. You also might want to try a pre-shave oil. Walmart sells one for about $3, stay away from “fancy” oils that cost $20+, they are the same thing in a glass bottle. If you want to make you own you can use castor oil and olive oil and then add whatever fragrance you wish. Bigelow is good but you can get it cheaper by just buying Proraso online. Plus you can get the whole line. The menthol is a nice way to start the day.

I think I’m missing something here. I’ve had a browse through B&B, and it seems some people actually COLLECT shaving tackle? Why? I mean it’s something you use, to scrape hair from your body, why would you need more than one? Ok I can understand different soaps/foams/oils/aftershaves for something a bit different, but actual razors? Maybe I’m missing the point big style here, as I know 99% of us are snuff collectors, that I can understand, different flavours/styles etc, but razors? You may as well collect cutlery or toothbrushes. Strange, but whatever floats your boat. As I mentioned earlier in the thread I’ve not shaved in ages, simply because after the age of 15 the novelty wore off lol. It’s something I’m loathe to do, so I’m going for the scruffy twat/Captain Birdseye look even though my beard is brown lol. I certainly can’t see the point in collecting razors. Somebody ffs enlighten me! Ok I’ve had 11 pints, but I still don’t think it would make any sense sober lol. Stefan

Some of the razors are works of art. If I ever get a new razor it will be a step up from my current one. I guess I’am saying it is just fetish really.

Stefan, I have over 20 razors and upwards of a dozen brushes. I think it is a homage to an era gone by, the same with snuff. Also, safety razors give a better shave without ingrown hairs and razor burn. they are also very eco friendly.

@Cstokes you’re totaly right but I’am also curious too and love my razor (I’am amazed that razor burn is avoidable), is there any practical reason to have more then one good razor? Or is it just fun?

@Chris fair enough, like I say whatever floats your boat. I definately agree that a DE gives a hell of a better shave and is a lot more economical. I know some men see shaving as a ritual, not a chore, I’m definately one of the latter. Stefan

@cstokes4 Proraso? Forgive my ignorance, but what is that? Are you saying it’s close to the same thing? Because I love the Bigelow SO MUCH that I’m close to not using anything else ever again because of my love for it lol If I can find something of similiar traits i’d gladly go for it especially for financial reasons… I’m pretty sure my angle’s okay… but I DO have very coarse facial hair… oh well I get a good shave either way

If I had extra moneies I’d certainly collect more razors. The one I have is a basic merkur and not only does it shave wonderfully it is beautifull in a way that only a very functional well made tool can be. @Walrus I used to hate shaving I really loathed it. I only shaved because I do better with the ladies when I don’t go grizzly beard. Now I really considering shaving to be a treat. Kind of like getting a nice foot massage. Wet shaving is something that has to be tried to understand.

“just fun”? - Isnt that the top of Maslows pyramid? “fetish”? - Thats more towards the base of the pyramid but still a DARN fine motivation!! I’ve done both but the truth is that, for a period, I suffered from RAD (razor acquisition disorder). It started as getting the Gillette i NEEDED (The Tech), then the one I WANTED (the ABC handle)… it went downhill from there. Waking up in a cold sweat being unsure that the sniping service is paid up… etc. It got ugly I look back now and wonder, like Bob… “why more than one?!” Im a RAD survivor … am willing to walk for the cause but would REALLY like a T-shirt! The good news: I have a VERY cool collection for my son!

I don’t collect razors. I do tend to accumulate them. I’m looking for the best razor for my face. When I find it I’ll buy 5 or 6 exactly like it and use them exclusively. The rest will be sold or traded off. I have a few special ones that I’ll keep even if I don’t use them often, but mostly it’s just a hunt for the perfect razor. I do collect firearms, knives and tobacco related items, so I can completely understand collecting razors, if one has a passion for them.

Having been using my DE for a few weeks now and enjoying it, I figured it was time to try some alternative products. I also figured that since London is only an hour away by train, a little visit to St James Street might be in order… Oh yeah!

I wish I had some bayrum snuff and Tom Buck aftershave.

@TheBoggart What Covent snuff is in the photo?

@transistor: Proraso makes Bigelow, it is the same product. In Italy is is sold as Proraso, in the US, Bigelowe for Bath & Body. Check out the Proraso products if you like Bigelowe.

@bob I wet shaved everyday for at least 10 years, I got an electric shaver for Xmas once. I used it once. It made my face sore as hell and gave a bloody awful shave. Like I say it’s just something I hate doing. I started shaving when I was 14. My birthday is in June, by Xmas the novelty wore off, but I still did it. But now I just think sod it lol. Stefan

I can dig. I hated shaving for a long time. Maybe it’s just amazing to me that I can have a shave that doesn’t cause me pain either way I think it’s a blast and it amazes me that it’s ever fallen out of fashion.

@Xander It’s the mature crumbled. I must say that I’m not a big one for the SP type snuffs, but this is very nice indeed! I like the coarseness and richness of it.

tried the feather blades. Great things. Just have to be carefull. Wanted to add that I just got an order of new shaving things. Got a mentholated soap Proraso love the stuff. Lucky tiger aftershave/face tonic. The aftershave is amazingly awesome and has a citrus scent I’am sure snuffs would love, and that ladies certainly find appealing. Also firehouse mustache wax is great by the way.

Howdy Bart! If you are still on the lookout for moustache wax, I can recommend: Clubman and Firehouse. see: http://www.firehousemoustachewax.com/ While you are there, take a look at their photo gallery (yup… I’m in there.) Both can be found on Amazon if you do a search for “moustache wax” All Pinaud Clubman waxes dry very stiff, which is the way I like it due to the fact that full handlebars look ridiculous if one side starts to droop in the middle of the day. There are others such as Colonel Ichabod Conk which do not set as firmly, if they even set at all. Which kind of moustache wax you use depends on what kind of moustache you have. Above all, you want to get one that is WATER SOLUBLE and will come off in the shower with shampoo and a bit of work. (I consider “a bit” of work to be 3 applications of shampoo or less.) When I wet shave I use a mug and brush and my old Gillette Atra. Although I regularly buy shaving soap (my pharmacy usually has Old Spice) shaving mugs are also a very good way to dispose of soap slivers. For fine tuning around my moustache, I use a disposable bikini line razor (the blade is only about 1" long.)

@bob yes feather blades ate amazing I use them a lord. BB shave every time I also use palmolive soap great stuff and cheap in the UK at 49p a stick.

Thanks, Dave…Yes, Firehouse wax was going to be my next buy. I’ve used Clubman before.

I don’t like clubman compared to firehouse. The firehouse is trickier to use but works much better and doesn’t give me the droops holds up to water better. Smells a little nicer. It’s definatly a diffrent beast it’s more like a block of hard wax. Which you have to melt before getting it in the stache.

Wish I could grow a moustache, just too darn irritating.

I don’t. I don’t care much for moustaches lol

I had moustache back in '80’s and early '90’s. They were more popular then and I also wanted to look older. Heh, now I’m clean shaven because all hair an my head an face is grey! Even my cheast hair is grey and pubes too, I’ve been told. Must get Brazilian.

Howdy cstokes4! Talk about irritating… Try standing at a bus stop in January and having 3" icicles growing on your face! Moisture from your breath condenses and freezes on handlebars don’cha know…

This is true. Though if you want a non-irratating mustache go for one like mine the reverse hitler. You shave out the middle. Of course I’ve got handle bar buds right now (not quite there but soon.)

Thanks for the insight Allan. @howdydave: For some reason I can grow a mean goatee but not a moustache, itches my face. Maybe one day I’ll give it another shot.

I used to do this for years. In fact, I started with a straight. I quickly realized why so many men had beards back in the day…

…Because with a beard comes supernatural inner AND outer strength.

I recently got a Parker 89R DE razor, a Parker badger hair brush and some Col. Conk almond shave soap to give wet shaving a try and I must say I am very impressed with the results, my face is smoother than a babies ass.  Whats more suprising is that I actually enjoy shaving now that I started wet shaving and this is coming from a guy who utterly hated shaving.  So if your someone who despises having to shave I highly recommend you start wet shaving, it will change the way you see shaving forever.

9Inch,

It’s a nice feeling when you find something that works well for you, isn’t it?!

The only thing I would add is, invest in quality supplies. My brush is less than a year old and losing hair…it was a very cheap one.

Have been using my Dad’s 1941 Gillette Ranger Tech since I could shave. Recently bought a Bostonian and it has taken over the no. 1 spot in my rotation. Great heft and the open comb really helps give a close shave with minimal effort. Use whatever soap/cream that I can find on sale. Try Shark blades–either chromed or stainless. Sharp and forgiving.

Dug out my 70’s era Gillette razor, and my Shick injector. Couldn’t find any injector blades. Bought some Wilkinson Sword blades. Threw out the disposables. Still haven’t bought a brush and soap yet. Still have to finish the can of edge. Where can I get a Merker for a good price?

edm

I use a murker razor with durby extra blades and colenole conk shaving soap

@mustangii, I get all my shaving supplies from West Coast Shaving. You can shop around and save a few pennies, but WCS has a pretty complete selection and great service.

@mustangii: I use www.razorbladesandmore.com you can’t beat their selection of blades and shipping prices.  

Also, you might want to check out any barber supply/beauty supply shops in your area.  I buy my Personna Blue’s locally, best blade around IMHO.  The barber supply that I frequent also sells Merkers and injectors. Just look around, you are bound to find something.  

Twice a week I wet shave, with a Wilkinson Sword.

love wet shaving. It’s actualy fun. Feather is my blade of choice. It’s nice and sharp. As far as cutting yourself. A nice sharp blade will teach you good hurt less when you do cut your self and give you an even smoother shave.

I had only used electrics or disposables until about 10 years ago and stumbled on straights on the internet. I bought one and all the required (or not) accessories and never looked back. WOW what a difference. Gave my electric to my oldest son and my wife confiscated my disposables. I need to get my straights sharpened again. Most of the time now I use an old Gillette DE that belonged to my G-Grandfather. Soap is usually Williams unless I just want to treat myself (and impress the wife) and then it’s ToOBS Sandalwood (that stuff is AMAZING). I’ll never use another else but straights and DEs now. Now the only question is “Do I order more shaving supplies?” or “Do I order more snuff?”.

Started out with one of them Gillette metal-handled adjustable DE’s in the '80s, now using my second Merkur DE with the full length handle and whatever blades I can find locally- but I guess I like Wilkinson’s. Have a couple straights in storage somewhere. I do the 2-plus phase method, down/with grain, then up/against where needed. I just can’t get that close with just shaving down.  I don’t think I’ll get the RAD, but unless I find my old straights soon, I might just buy a new one. So guys, can someone reccommend a good straight or line of such, I don’t need fancy- just solid functional quality, and not too expensive. I think when I bought my last one it was about $100-125, and I don’t know if I can push the envelope any further than that these days. Any input would be appreciated!

Just have a look at badger and blade forum in the B/S/T forum, lots of good used straights can be found there, If you looking to spend around $125 for a new one you won’t get much I’m afraid. Two weeks ago I’ve send 5 good straights to the US for just over that amount (don’t have any more). happy hunting

Thank’s for your input! Geez I really should try to find my old ones then! Got so much else to spend on!

OK I’m looking at some straights, DOVO’s, or something in that price range. Don’t need anything fancy, just quality and performance. No need for damascus steel or buffalo horn handles, just something that will hold up for a long time. Any more suggestions?

Hell Yeah, I have been wet shaving for about 2 years, it can be just as addictive as snuff

huh, I’ve been meaning to start wet shaving, but I can never seem to get the brushes/soaps and a razor at the same time. I can get brushes and soaps at walmart, even blades, but can’t get the actual safety razor.

For a safety razor (DE), I offer my novice/amatuer opinion, the Merkur’s are quite nice. I’m on my second one only because my first dissappeared. They’re not cheapos nor super expensive. I’ve never bothered with a brush as I can get good results with some shaving lotions, one of which a peppermint formula from “Kiss My Face” I believe. But I’m just getting nostalgic for straight razors atm.

There’s one that sells for around $10 on Amazon that has great reviews for a starter blade. It’s “LORD” brand I think. I’m not too comfortable dropping over 30 bucks into anything that I might not like. Comes from a $250 e-cig issue I had. Yeah, that hurt and my wife has never let me live it down.

Wow $250- ouch! Thank’s for the info!  I was looking at some of the cheaper ones there and wondered if they were shaveworthy, or just a novelty pocket knife etc. I had (or have if I can find it) a decent one and a couple of questionable quality. So crossing the fingers here to see if they can be found.

Also wondering how a stainless steel blade compares to carbon steel as far as performance; edge retention, ease of honing etc.

And what’s the deal with the blue DE blades? Do they have any advantages? 

Oh, what about those new straights that use a DE razor in them? They seem pretty nifty and are pretty cheap.

Worth considering…

If you guys really wanna talk wet shaving you should check out Badger & blade, it’s a great wet shaving forum that I am a member of and all your questions will be answered, they also have buy/sell/trade section and you can get some great deals.

If you are going to use a shavette (disposable straight), be sure to get a good one (Feather).  They will run you the same as a good straight, but no upkeep. The Dovo’s are used with mixed results.  I have a Parker and Magic, they are ok but very touchy. 

I have the Feather SS no-sharpen straight and it is great, does take some practice though.

wow…just used a brush and puck soap for the first time. Picked up a set last night. Even for a cheap set and an unexperienced wet shaver it works MUCH better than canned spray gel or cream. A much closer shave.

I’ll probably go for a traditional straight, I really liked the one I was using- wish I could remember the brand!

Another Feather user here, got a folding and non folding DX mostly used for head shaves but I love my straights above all.

i am also a wet shaver. My favorites are R41 and straight razors.

and I thought this was going to be about hot women. Had a hot title

When I started shaving (back in the days of music on vinyl, leaded petrol, and dinosaurs) I used an electric razor, but after a few years really hated the noise of the thing. I went on to double bladed things, which were ok (just) but really fancied trying an old-fashioned double edged razor just like I used to see advertised on telly (Wilkinson Sword). The girlfriend I had at the time treated me to one, and my shave inproved straight away. I’ve tried shaving gels, and King of Shaves oil, and even standard Aloe Vera gel from health food stores (not bad), but have found proper shaving soap applied with a proper shaving brush to be the best. I’m currently using Trumpers almond shaving soap. It’s eighteen quid a go, works very well but somewhat overpriced, though it did come in a very nice turned wooden bowl, but truth be told I don’t think it’s much better than the one Boots the Chemist does for three pounds or so. The best soap I’ve ever used is Italian, made by a company called Valobra - it’s lovely stuff, comes in a cardboard box but it’s soft so it can be moulded to fit into whatever container you want to use. Lasts for months, and gives a gorgeous shave. http://www.valobra.com/shavingsoap.htm I love the old fashioned look of the pic on the box. Real class.

Honestly, as you can see I shave my whole head and there is only one creme that will allow to put real pressure on your razor and that is Neutrogena Shave Creme. You only use a small amount like putting tanning lotion on. Also helps to keep your skin clear. As far as a razor… I gotten fond of the Gillette Fusion only because it has the one reversed blade for tight spots

Well I got home today to find a missed delivery notice for my package from Fendrihan Shaving Store. I have been slowly building up that cart for over a year now and finally decided to splurge on myself. Tomorrow I’ll have a package of fancy new wet shaving supplies waiting for me at the post and I can’t wait, been dying to try Feathers blades and Tabac shaving soap for some time now

I have been using a Merkur DE with Feather blades for about a year. I love my shave regimen. I use Glyce Lime pre shave soap and Proraso products with a Badger brush. Awesome results! I got tired of paying $20.00 for 4 Fusion blades. I also dig my Alum block & Witch Hazel as a tonic.

I’ve been using my Eric Anton Berg, and old refurbished Sheffield Blades with Col. Conk for a couple months now. I’ll NEVER go back to crap cartridge razors. I keep my 1950’s brass Gilette DE around for when I need a really quick shave, and dont have time for the SR.

@Chef_Dean I understand that, I have to buy them at Sams Club to keep the cost down.

I use an Sollingen Erbe straight and all the prorazo products I can get - the prorazo pre and after cream is a great product.

I use a '56 model Gillette safety razor (older than I am) and Feather blades. It probably cost me about 5 dollars to shave last year!

I have eight straight razors, and seven safety razors three of them being SE. My daily razor tends to be my red tip super speed made with in the last quarter of 1957 I happened to be born on Sep/1/1957. Sometimes I do touchups with my Muhle R41, which is as aggressive as a straight. I use a silver tip badger brush with a tallow soap from prairie creations. I like the soap, but be aware that it can take the maker a month to ship it. Oh yes…I tend to use my Wade & Butcher with a barber notch out of my straight razors http://prairie-creations.com/pc/

I have 15 DE’s, 7 SE’s, a couple shavettes, two Rolls, and one straight that needs some work. My favorite is my Gillette ABC Shell, complete with custom case, blade box, and original blades.

I also have a Rolls, but it’s my least favorite razor.

Woah. A Wet shaver thread. Great! I love my merkur futur especially with the super iridium blades. :x

I have an EJ DE89, but lately have been tending toward my GEM MicroMatic SE - just get a better shave. I’m really enjoying shaving now, which is an entirely new thing.

yeah Pete I’am on the same wave length. I used to hate shaving now it’s one of the things I get enjoyment from. Wet shaving is a wonderfull thing.

The bummer is it’s not always easy to find DE blades locally, and often I get stuck with the drug store house-brand ones. oh well…

I order my blades from west coast shaving. I have a few years worth of feather blades (which are my favorite and I don’t find them dangerousily sharp.).

@ Mr_O you might want to look for DrIdiot on Badgerandblade, he has some great choices of blades for a very good price, great service, many people use him. Recently I’ve found out via a sample that HeadSlick Shave Cream is fantastic. I shave my head daily with a Feather DX razor and that is one of the slickest and best shave creams I’ve ever encountered. It’s sold as a brushless cream but I use it as a normal cream either in a bowl or face lathering.

Thank’s guys! I’ll google them up…

also Amazon has a good selection and there are a lot of online specialty shops that have variety selections!

I use http://www.fendrihan.com a plus for me is their warehouse is only 2 hours away from me so my packages arrive the day after they’re shipped. You might want to give them a try they have free shipping on US orders over $75.

my last blade order was from here ShoeBox ShaveShop

I’ll have to check those out too, thank’s for the suggestion folks! Thinking if I can’t find my old straight razors I might order one sometime soon. Are there any especially good places to order one from, if not the above places? Or any other suggestions? Thinking about the $100 -$150 dollar range. edit… Maybe a Dovo? Do they have a good reputation?

my last blade order was from here ShoeBox ShaveShop

Thought I’d let you know, that link goes elsewhere, to a photo.

Sorry about the link, here is is corrected: shoeboxshaveshop.com/ Thanks Mr_O!

Had a horrible nightmare last night. I dreamed my safety razor broke and I had to finish shaving with a disposable.

1967 Gillette.

I have a Merkur DE but won’t be shaving again till Summer. I do kind of miss the ritual actually.

my handlebar is starting to curl nicely now

That’s cool, never had one. Though I’ve thought about getting some 'stachewax for my occasional goatee experiment, you know, just to give the 'stache some direction.

@Mr_O check out Oregon Wild Hair - I got a nice tache brush and some wax from them.

Will do Pete, thank’s!

I got some “the gentlemans stiffener” for my husband, so he can try handlebars. Its a nice moustache wax. “Bounder extra firm” is also good he reports I bought him an Edwin Jagger safety razor and brush, I have a Parker 22 to shave my legs with, and we both use Taylors of Old Bond Street shaving cream. Neither of us would ever go back to disposables.

I have been wet shaving for many years but have always used the multi blade cartridge type razors. Although I did drop out of the multi-blade arms war some time ago and reverted to basic two blade razors. But yesterday I picked up a Wilkinson Sword Classic double edge safety along with a brush and soap bowl - less than £20 for the lot. I realise the razor is a lightweight but it was significantly heavier than the razors I have been using so I can only imagine what the solid metal ones weigh. This morning I had my first shave with it and amazingly got through it with no cuts or nicks and only a very small and very slight patch of razor burn. I am completely converted as my face feels far smoother than it has done for years. So now I am hooked what would you veterans suggest as a decent and not too aggressive serious razor? I have been looking at Merkurs, Muhles and Jaggers but there is such a variety that I am totally confused as to my next step. Having picked up a wealth of snuff knowledge from this forum I am sure that I will get some sensible advice here so all comments welcomed.

@chris I have a Jagger DE89 that is incredible. I have really enjoyed it! Heavy, but shaves very well.

@PeteTschantz Thanks for that. I have seen a lot of people on the web recommending that razor as suitable even for a beginner like me. The only thing that concerned me is that the handle is plain chrome with no texture and could get quite “slippery when wet” unlike something like the Merkur 34 which is heavily textured. I don’t like the idea of the razor slipping in my hands while shaving.

@chris, I haven’t had any problems with mine slipping at all. You might want to read around, I’ve read of some folks having problems with the plating on the Merkurs. Just make sure to get an assortment of blades whichever what you decide to go.

@PeteTschantz Thanks for that info. I just had a look around on the web and there is a Jagger 89 that has a barley pattern engraved on the handle that would give it a little extra grip. The more I read the more it looks like the Jagger is the way to go and I will - as you have suggested - be getting an assortment of blades to experiment with. I’ve already got a styptic pencil just in case!

definatily try diffrent blades. I found for me the best is the feather which has a reputation as being dangerous because of being very sharp. The thing is I don’t cut myself with it the few times I did the cut was clean so it healed faster and hurt less.

@bob, I like the feather blades as well - they are SHARP! Trying some Gillette’s right now for due diligence

I use a Shavette, Its a straight razor that uses disposable razors, so I don’t have to sharpen and strop it, I think it was like 20 bucks, it was a birthday gift. I also got a cheap plastic handle badger brush that came with a puck of shaving soap and a little bowl for 15 bucks. It all works really well for being cheap products, and my face feels amazing after a straight shave, plus if I only do one pass over my chin and under my nose it leaves some stubble. I’m thinking of picking up a real straight razor once I get some more cake, I was just afraid I wouldn’t be able to sharpen it well enough and then i’d be stuck with a straight razor that wont shave.

@bob / @PeteTschantz Thanks for the info on the Feathers. Happily my beard does not seem to be too tough so I probably do not have to risk going with the sharpest possible blades. The basic Wilkinson Sword ones were fine and I have some Performmas to try. @Vito445 Yes I looked at shavettes and straight razors but I just don’t fancy too much exposed blade and the DE razors seem to do a good job. From my experience of sharpening normal knives I would also - like you - worry about keeping a straight edge properly sharpened. I think I will be going with Peter’s advice re the Jagger 89 and getting the version with the barley pattern on the handle to get just a little more grip. I will let you know how I get on.

I started with a set (7) of Swedish straights. Unfortunately a burglar got them all and I could not find the same quality again. Then to double edged Gillette blues, stainless Wilkonson…Was talked into a Philips electric wet. Always shave in the shower so I really enjoyed it. Bought 3 of the latest model with extra heads 3 years ago and found the razor was better but the blades dulled very rapidly. I had well over 100 Gillette 2 and 3 blade cartridges (sent as a care package from friend in California who was sick of my whining) so I tried them again. Either my hand got steadier or my skin thicker. In 4 months of blade shaving not a nick and it is faster than the Philips. If anybody here wants to insult me I can find out how thick my skin has gotten. A tip: If you take your blade (assuming a cartridge system) and rub it against a bar of dry soap opposite to the shaving angle it will “hone” the blade. Blow through the blade first to get rid of most moisture. In addition to honing the blade some soap will coat the blades lessening any oxidation from water. Before shaving again use shower head or running water (if you don’t shave in the shower, but shave in bed don’t use the running water) to wash away or minimize the protective soap layer. I keep one bar of soap for this. When it wears down it rotates into regular washing and I open up a fresh bar for honing. I managed over 2 months of shaving from a blade this way. The local pharmacies here frequently sell blades made in China, so my friends send me them form America. I suspect I have a life time supply now.

@PeteTschantz Having examined the various options and reviews I have taken your advice and ordered a Jagger DE89 with the barley handle. It should be here tomorrow and Special Delivery post normally arrives here early in the morning so hopefully I will be using it for my morning shave. I will let you know how I get on and thanks again for the advice.

@chris, hope you enjoy it!

@PeteTschantz Well it turned up yesterday but I didn’t have time to use it until today. A very nice piece of kit and the first two passes went exceptionally well and lulled me into a false sense of security - but on the third I nicked myself under the nose and above the lip. My own fault as I had got a bit too casual and was not paying enough attention - too many years of using multi blades. But I can’t blame the razor for that and I did have a styptic pencil to hand! So lesson learnt - these blades can be dangerous when compared to the multi blades and I won’t do that again. Anyway thanks again for the advice - it really is a lovely razor and clearly built to last.

@chris, glad to hear you enjoyed (mostly). I switch back and forth between the DE89 and my GEM Micromatic.

@PeteTschantz Cheers. I think I might use the cheapo Wilkinson Sword for my third pass for the next few days. It seems to be almost impossible to cut myself with that and the bit under the nose is the trickiest part - for me at least.

@chris, I hope that works for you! I haven’t shaved my upper lip in many years so not something I have had to master

@chris you should get yourself an Alum Block it will take care of any nicks or razor burn you might get, its an essential part of my shaving routine. Also I stopped getting pimples after shaving since I started using an Alum Block

@PeteTschantz Not shaving my upper lip would be a solution but SWMBO would definitely not approve. @n9inchnails Funny you should mention that as it is already on my shopping list for tomorrow.

Does anybody use a Dovo straight? I’m leaning towards one if I can’t find my old ones. Just want to know if they are a good quality piece of work. Can’t for the life of me remember who made my fave old one…

Does anybody use a Dovo straight? I’m leaning towards one if I can’t find my old ones. Just want to know if they are a good quality piece of work. Can’t for the life of me remember who made my fave old one…

I suggest you get a used razor from whipped dog, it will be just as good if not better than a new razor. I have nothing but praise for Larry who runs the business. One of my favorite razors is a Wade and Butcher from Larry, and it was only $35. http://www.whippeddog.com/

@tyboyer- thank’s for the suggestion! I’ll check them out…

I’ve been wet shaving for a year and a half maybe. I have a Merkur 1904/1906. I like it a lot. I use wilkinson blades and that cheap Williams shave soap. I just shaved for the first time since November but I kept the mustache and soul patch. I’m digging getting back into the ritual of shaving. I’ve also been waxing my mustache to keep it out of my mouth. Heck I even bought some Murray’s Superior for my hair after getting it cut. I been styled up nice these last two weeks

murrays is my pomeade of choice.

I use a device called ‘Rasierhobel’ in german, it’s just a metal stick with a frame in which you insert the classic razorblade. I usually use just water for moistening, only when I’ve stopped shaving for some time and the hair got quiet long I either use soap or shampoo to soften it up before shaving. Amazingly, I enjoy it much more since I stopped using those expensive high-tech devices by wilkinson & co. A shaving knife is one of the things on my list of stuff to buy when the money comes rolling in again, I think this would improve both the result as well as the enjoyment of the process.

@bob: I user Murray’s Super Light, Dax, and Royal Crown. Dax does best in the humidity down here, has a good scent too. @otherwheres: A Raiserhobel is what we would call a Safety Razor.

@cstokes4: Maybe, it is a similar device to the picture Hamlet posted above, just more simple. somehow this image didn’t display for me yesterday.

murrays is the only one I’ve tried that works on my hair. Royal Crown gives me a greasy fro.

Can one find those pomades at the shaving shops? Finally located my old straights, think I need to send 'em in to get cleaned up and honed, though…

Having picked up a wealth of snuff knowledge from this forum I am sure that I will get some sensible advice here so all comments welcomed.

This UK based shaving site may also be of some use. http://www.theshavingroom.co.uk/forum/portal.php

@insufflator Many thanks for the info. I have indeed been lurking there for a little while but have not actually signed up.

I have a '63 Gilette and an EverReady.I usually use Wilkinson Sword blades. But I have an absurd amount of aftershave/colognes.

Palmolive shaving soap, an old mug, badger hair shaving brush and a parker sr 31 shavette (straight razor that takes regular wilkinson sword blades). All used in a deep hot bath with an audio book on, lather up and zone out.

I personally love wetshaving I do have a Filarmonica  straight razor that only used once, but have many safety razors. Merkur, Muehle, Gillete, Pearl, Edwin Jagger… The best thing is the ritual, and the fact that you get a clean shave without irritation nor nicks.

I progressed to cut throats in my early twenties and love the ritual of a leisurely close shave.  I have saved a fortune over the years by using these antique razors.  

After restoring , honing and stropping an antique cut throat, its a pleasant thought that I am getting an excellent shave with a razor that has been around for a hundred years and still outperforming a modern one.

A recent television advert made me chuckle when they used a cut throat as the mark of excellence and told us that their five or seven bladed disposable was as good as the cut throat.        Is that progress?

I have to admit though that if I am in a rush I reach for my Muhle razor and a selection of double edged blades.

On a lighter side I must tell you about my Grandfather.

Apparently he used to shave with a cut throat as soon as he got out of the bath.

One day he was shaving his top lip with an upwards stroke of the cut throat. The blade juddered and he sliced off the tip of his nose, a perfect circle.     Blood everywhere.

In shock, he let go of the razor, and it fell to the floor.    Here it struck his big toe and sliced the tip of that off as well.    Just like his nose.

With blood all over the floor he picked up the pieces and rinsed them under the tap.  A piece of sticking plaster held the discs of severed flesh in place  until they eventually grew back into place, and saved his handsome features.

What he did not know was that he had attached the piece of toe onto his nose, and the piece of nose onto his toe.

He only found out because after taking snuff,    when  he sneezed, his boot flew off.

:))

Hello there! I am a wet shaver. My main three razors are an Edwin Jagger DE89,Parker 24C and a Merkur 37C slant. My go to blades are Astra and Voshkods and my favourite Soaps are Wickham 1912 Classic 24 and Nanny’s Silly Soap Moroccan Sands together with Prorasso Green. I am a member of “theshavingroom” forum and have been sold and gifted a few injectors and have recently bought a Gilette Fatboy which I would like to get re-chromed at some point. I have a couple of straight razors too but I must confess I seldom use them.

Edwin Jagger 3D Diamond DE razor
Parker 22 “Interceptor” DE razor
Wilkinson Sword Classic DE razor
Unbranded travel DE razor
Edgar Allen (Sheffield) open razor
Darwin (Similar to Rolls, but made in Sheffield) razor
Mitchell’s Wool Fat Soap
Assorted balms, nothing exotic

… and I’ve had a full beard for about 18 months :-"

@50ft_trad    

Two more razors and you will be able to shave like an octopus.     
:D/

A Merkur 34C HD with feather blades, a Semogue finest badger brush and Tabac shaving soap is my preferred set up.  I started wet shaving with a Parker 22R, Parker badger brush and Prorasso soaps/aftershaves.

In the past year I have accumulated 7 DE razors, 4 straight razors, 9 brushes, a dozen soaps/creams and more than that number of aftershaves and balms, and about 150 DE blades. There will be no more purchases of these items in 2018.

Through trial and error I’ve found the Razorock 37 German Slant and British Flare Tip Rocket to be my two favourites. If I want aggressive I go for the Razorock while the rocket provides a great mild shave. Hopefully I can give away some of the others as none of them are particularly valuable razors and not worth selling.

Over the summer I’ve mostly used Geo F Trumper’s Limes cream, Barrister and Mann Bay Rum soap, Razorock XXX Duro soap. Winter will be Tabac soap, Mitchell’s Wool Fat, and Cyril Salter’s French Vetiver cream. I’ll use some of the others in between shaves for a bit of a changeup and to get them used up.

The only shave related items I may buy in the coming year will be for maintaining my straight razors. I need a decent strop (I have a cheap board strop right now), and a set of stones for honing. From what I’ve read that’s another deep rabbit hole to go down, hopefully I can practice a bit of restraint!

@crullers

Going from a board to a flexible belt style strop.    Do not buy an expensive belt strop at first,   just get a reasonable modest priced belt strop.   My first ever strop cost an arm and a leg, and once I had a bit of confidence in waggling a razor to and fro, I managed to put a nice slice in the edge of the strop through lack of concentration…     This was in the days before the internet was thought of.  I have since seen this bit of advice repeated time and again on open razor forums.

Trust in The Lord and keep your styptic dry.

@ArtChoo

I’m looking at a couple strops in the $100CAD range so not overly expensive. It’s the stones that have me a bit baffled, so many different options. I’m not looking to buy anything until the new year so lots of time to do my research.

@crullers I think there is a lot of over-thinking in today’s world. People get all kind of expensive stones, and fancy strops, and CBN impregnated compounds… but people weren’t using any of that when open razors were common, and their faces didn’t fall off. I have two combination stones 250/1k and 1k/6k. I also have one leather strop which cost about 40 GBP, and has compound on one side only. I also have some coarser general purpose stones (including diamond stones) going to about 120 grit. I can sharpen everything from scissors, to kitchen knives, to a razor on this stuff. What you NEED is typically less than 1/4 of whatever the internet normally leads you to believe you need

Good point @50ft_trad. I plan on keeping it simple and buying only what I need to get the job done. 

My colection of shaving instrunents:
Muehle Solingen Cuthroat Razor 5/8" Full Hollow Ground
Kaufmann Solingen Cuthroat Razor 5/8" Full Hollow Ground
Kron Punkt Solingen Cuthroat Razor 4/8" Half Hollow Ground

Gilette DE Safety Razor (Made in England in 60-70’s)

2x Tweezerman Real badger shawing brush

Old chinaware shawing mug

@Crullers as 50ft_trad said All you need is one combined stone 1k/(3)6k (I would recomend King Brand with rather solid ratio useability/price). As Sharpening Strop you can use leather belt from army surplus after shellac varnish is removed (use rubbing spirit) and then apply saddle balm (bees-wax/lanoline compound). . Let say 2 combination stones and old belt you are set with less than 100 USD (postage incl) for rest your life.
Jack

Edit I have also full beard for some 3 years by now, I was too lazy to shave. J

It was a thread on Badger & Blade,about snus,that introduced me to the joys of smokeless tobacco.

Double edge. Somersets pre shave oil.

So many wet shavers here. What are the odds? Even I am. I use an old razor in which you fit a normal blade, use a shaving soap for the foam and a block of alum as aftershave.

@newbiesnuffer I think with the net a lot of people are discovering this especially with the high price of cartridges. You get a better shave and it it much cheaper. You only need one razor such as an Edwin Jagger, a half decent brush, decent soap and some good blades and you are off. My DE89 was

Trying to edit this but not managing to get the article from my memory.  Will persevere.

I use straight razors 

I currently own 6:

Dovo Best Quality (a Solingen blade)

Henckles 10072 1/2 (a Solingen blade)

KJKMA (a Japanese straight razor)

H. Boker “Our Own” (a Solingen blade)

Robert Klaas (a Solingen blade)

Gold Dollar (a piece of crap!)

My favorites are Solingen blades made in the Solingen Valley of Germany; e.g.; Dovo, J.A. Henckels, R. Klaas, Boker, etc,

I basically got the Gold Dollar so that I could learn how to hone a razor. Basically, it would be no great loss if I ruined the blade on my first try at sharpening a razor on a set of stones.

You can find them used for a very reasonable price on eBay; just make sure that you get one that says right up front that it is “SHAVE READY”  or you may have to hone it on a stone before you can use it.

Don’t forget to get a strop!

A properly cared for straight razor will last a lifetime and can become a functional family heirloom for several generations.

There is a wealth of information available at Straight Razor Place

https://straightrazordesigns.com/pages/straightrazorplace

When using a straight razor, don’t forget your Alum block and maybe a bottle of Witch Hazel!

Take it slow at first…

Practice makes (almost) perfect!

There are lots of YouTube straight razor tutorials out there.

Lynn Abrams is a big noise in the straight razor community:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sDq-2ZRVYXA

Many people confuse straight razors with shavettes.

A shavette looks and works like a straight razor but it has replaceable blades.

Thus, when your blade becomes dull, you simply replace it  rather than stropping it to keep it sharp.

Modern barbershops all use shavettes these days.

I made my shaving set complete with a set of honing stones for sharpening my straight razors, they will eventually need it. (I got my Gold Dollar sharp enough to give me a reasonably comfortable shave.)

I got:

1 Norton 200/1000 grit stone (different coarseness on opposite sides of the stone)

1 Norton 4000/8000 grit

1 Norton flattening stone (to keep my honing stones perfectly flat.)

Now I’m set for life.

Note: The higher the number, the finer the grit.

I start on my 1000, work my way up to my 4000, and finish with my 8000,

There are finer stones, but 8000 is good enough for me as a non-professional.

I’m not reading through 10 pages. Why/what is so great about this? I use a beard trimmer to get rid of the beard and if i want i will shave with a razor. What’s the big deal? To me shaving is just a pain in the butt. For the record my wife went to hair school so I have had a good razor shave, just curious

I have a straight and a shavette, and I only use them occasionally. My straight didn’t come shave ready (old Sheffield razor off ebay), and used a couple of cheap waterstones (250/1k, and 1k/6k), and some lapping film on a marble tile to get it back working again. They’re only occasional “novelty” shaves for me though, and I don’t think they’ll ever become more than that. Most shaves I do are with double edge razors. It’s what I’ve used for the last 25 years. Some people consider double edge to be making a comeback, but from my perspective, it never went away.

The “big deal” is that if you like a really close shave (baby bottom smooth), a straight razor or shavette will give you the best results.

Once I saw the difference between a straight razor and my safety razor, I never looked back!

If one has a goatee or a Van Dyke, you can make much sharper demarcation lines between the beard and the shaved areas of the face with a straight/shavette.

Its double edge razors for me, I know I’ll just butcher my face if I try a straight razor. Still gives me a babys ass smooth shave no cartridge razor can compete with. Why do we wet shave? Its because all cartridge and electric razors are shit by comparison. Cartridge razors are just annoying, you have to rinse it out after every half stroke with a double edge razor I can shave my whole face before I have to rinse out the razor.

A double edge razor gets me fully clean shaven anyway, so in that respect, a shavette or straight cannot improve the quality of my shaves. Its a different experience, and a skill I wanted to acquire (both the honing and shaving), but there’s no significant benefit considering the extra few minutes it takes in the shave plus the additional maintenance before and after. I will occasionally use the shavette for edging up the handlebarred goatee though, if I am attending a function or something of that ilk. Other novelty shaves for me are a Rolls Razor or Darwin Hollow Ground

All valid points, thank you

I don’t know,but every time I see a straight razor,a little voice whispers in my head:cut throat-cut throat!or at least some fingers!

No no,not for us these things!

X_X

Handmade Razor Set,

My dear wife made this set for me on the lathe. It is made of Green Malachite and Mammoth Ivory and accepts either a multi blade commercial refill, or a double edged blade like Gillette. I would have liked to try using a Straight Razor as many are so dang beautiful, but at my age and mileage, my hands shake enough to make that a very dangerous place to be in.

Cheers,

Doc Holliday 

       Is unus bibliotheca magna , He is in himself a great library. 

That looks great! I have a question btw, does anybody know a good place to buy a new single blade razor? The only place I have found is West Coast Shaving, but I think I remember them being expensive. I think it just might be the most comfortable type to use, for me personally. I have a straight razor, but it needs to be spiffed up.