Thread: Graduating to a Spike Point

I had my first experience with a spike point last week or so. One slice near my ear was all it took to respect it. Sharp objects are all the same I think, aim twice, cut once. Be aware and respectful of the edge and you'll be fine. Says I.

I've used them from the very first straight razor. I think the first round point I got was razor number 4 or 5. I find them actually more friendly since it's perfectly clear where the edge ends.

Originally Posted by BeBerlin

One could argue that round points (certainly 6/8 and wider) are harder to use XTG under the nose or to clean sideburns.

Keep an eye on your earlobe, and you should be fine.

I do argue this point (no pun intended). I started with spikes, and really prefer them to round points.

I've cut myself worse with round points than spikes (though most of my razors are round points). Just keep your eye on the toe, same as any shaped point. You'll be OK.

My dear David,

Much sound advice from these learned gentlemen.

I, too, like razors with precision points, as do many gentlemen at SRP. At the same time, I like my spike slightly tempered, just enough to take the bite out. In essence, then, the razor squeezes next to a square point.

That might be another options for you: a muted spike with just enough rounding of the point to take the bite out.

Thanks for reading.

Regards,

Obie

When I first shaved with a spike point as a newbie, I would focus on something and forget exactly where the "spike" itself was in relation to my skin, and I dragged a bit in my face, causing me to quickly recoil.

+1 to all the good stuff above!

If you're careful, and take your time, there's absolutely no reason why a "newbie" can't use a spike point, or any other point razor.

You just don't want to accidentally tilt the razor and have that point dip down into your face, or get too close to your ear and cut it.

I shaved maybe 2 times before I switched to a french/irish point razor, and it has yet to get me.

Just take your time, and you will be fine Enjoy the spike!

As a noob still, I was only a couple months into it when i got my first spike. I didn't look back after that. PAY CLOSE ATTENTION to the point. Especially before you buy it, because obviously not all spikes are the same. For instance, I got a Dovo spike point in bone that you can find on Straight Razor Designs and the spike does what I need and it didn't take much adjustment to get used to it. BUT I just got a Genco spike that is lethal, the blade is very straight and that point is a hard 90 degree angle, and I am trying to get used to it. So make sure you take a good look at the blade, because some spikes are harder to use than others. Look at the tip for the slightest muting or smirk (haha I wouldn't call it a smile).

Smooth shaving,
Gabe

I found a Simmons Hardware SR not too long ago and it has a "spike point" with a barber's notch. It's going to be my first restoration project on a SR.

+1 to watching the point. You might find danger where you don't expect it. I cut myself the other day on my upper cheek, above the shave area, with the point of my Heljestrand. As careful as I was with my ears and nose, I guess I lost focus at some point. (Dang. I was trying to avoid the word "point.")

The lesson is, don't assume it's only your earlobe that's in danger.

Constant vigilance!

Fred