Thread: Dovo Bismarck 6/8

Originally Posted by Obie

Icarusflies,

Welcome to Straight Razor Place, and thank you for asking questions and listening to the answers. I share some of my thoughts with you:

You seem to focus excessively on how much time your straight razor shave will take, whereas you need to throw away the clock and concentrate on honing your skill regardless of time spent. Remember, the traditional straight razor is a completely different experience from the straight razor with replaceable blades, or the double edge razor. You, therefore, need to concentrate on a specific set of nuances for the traditional straight, including the proper method of stropping the blade.

I am not sure the Bismark 6/8 is a great idea for a beginner. Yes, of course, it's a handsome razor. I had one in the early years, and although I liked the razor, the thumb notch threw off my balance, especially when stropping. This could be a consideration for some beginners. It was for me, but it might not be for you, I don't know. Still, it is worth thinking about it.

Either way, please make sure you purchase a quality razor and strop. No, they need not be too expensive. What's more, do not buy sight unseen; rather, see what you are buying. Beyond that, please make sure to read on the subject, and watch quality videos. About 90 percent of straight razor shaving videos are not very good — in just about every way. The one set of good videos you especially should watch are these made by Lynn Abrams, because he knows everything there is to know about straight razor shaving and his videos reflect that.

The best of luck. We are delighted to have you with us.

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it.

What Dovo razor would you recommend or better said, what characteristics should I look for in a straight razor.

Now that's a good question sometimes that's the key to things knowing what and how to ask.. being new And looking for my first true straight razor you are truly helping my research thank you icarus

When going from a shavettte to a straight you should expect a WORSE shave AT FIRST. As you become more accustomed to a straight and hone your skills it will get better (sometimes quickly sometimes slowly) and in the end I think you will see the shave itself is as good and in some people's opinion (mine included) much smoother and more forgiving.

As for time, if I understand your intent for asking the question, you want to know if it's possible to eventually shave with less time? I just timed my shave yesterday because I had an appointment to go to. It took me 11 minutes for a 3 pass shave +touch ups and including stropping before and after. There are you tube vids of people shaving 2 passes in about 5 minutes or less. It eventually becomes second nature.

Originally Posted by Icarusflies

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it.

What Dovo razor would you recommend or better said, what characteristics should I look for in a straight razor.

Icaruflies,

Choose a Dovo, Thiers-Issard, Boker or Ralf Aust in a 5/8 or 6/8 blade with round point and standard shank. Also, don't forget that the scales are secondary to blade quality. Not only that, but make sure the razor comes to you shave ready. If I were to recommend one of the razors mentioned above over the others, it would be Ralf Aust. Start with the 5/8; I have that razor and it's a sweet one. Also, buy a quality 3" strop and learn to strop well.

Great! Thanks for all this very useful info.

Can I ask the same question about what kind of Strop should I get.

I suppose I should not even get close from a honing stone at this stage....

Is there something else that I would need to take care of the straight razor?

Thanks again

Those with more experience then me feel free to chime in but look for a two sided or 2 piece strop around 3" wide with either canvas back or linen or even poly web back side possibly a loaded balsa strop for touch ups wouldn't suggest a hone anytime soon I've always been told to get the shave and strop technique down before diving into honing or restoring blades

Originally Posted by Icarusflies

Great! Thanks for all this very useful info.

Can I ask the same question about what kind of Strop should I get.

I suppose I should not even get close from a honing stone at this stage....

Is there something else that I would need to take care of the straight razor?

Thanks again

Icarusflies,

There are a variety of leathers and finishes for your strop, and in a range of prices. I like a strop with a light to medium draw and, therefore, suggest the 3" English bridle strop (short). If you want a heavier draw, go with the latigo. Either way, buy quality. Yes, there is a chance you might cut your strop. Then again, you might not. Strop slowly and carefully and you'll be fine. If you cut your strop, consider as part of the learning curve and purchase another strop, or buy a replacement part for the cut strop.

Including stropping and lathering the soap, I can get away with a pretty decent 2 pass shave in about 15 to 20 mins. I'm usually in there for about an hour though chasing that BBS. But after the 2 passes, no one can tell the difference. Not unless they are rub on my face. But I'm still in my learning phase though. I'm still trying to map out my most efficient shaving route.

Thank you all for the feedback!!!

Would you say than a wood handle would be significantly harder to maintain than a plastic one as I think the Bismarck has.

Thanks