Thread: Sharpness or Technique

I tested the razor on my arm and it did in fact slide across like butter and take the hairs off. I guess my angle was not where it needed to be.

As for facial prep, I didn't give that too much thought. Next time I shave, I will definitely pay more attention to this as well.

Thanks for all the advice!!!!

I think beard prep is one of the areas that is easily overlooked by beginners. When I started, I really went overboard on beard prep because I knew it was both important and often under done by beginners. I think going overboard softens up the hairs a bit more as well, which helps a little with a beginner who is lacking technique.

As others have said, its likely your technique. Classic shaving is a reputable straight dealer, so I'm sure the razor is shave ready. Getting a good shave with a straight is very reliant on technique however, so the beginner will alway get sub par shaves. For an experienced straight user, a nice sharp razor can cut through hairs like a hot knife through butter. In the hands of a beginner, it can be an uncomfortable shave indeed.

Here is my 2cents on what to do.
1) Go overboard on beard prep.
2) Don't do any ATG passes for a few weeks. Your techniqe needs to develop, and you face needs to adjust. Without those, you will get bad razor burn.
3) Focus on 3 things: Keeping your skin tight, the angle of the razor low, and keeping the touch of the razor as light as possible.

Originally Posted by JMatthias

I tested the razor on my arm and it did in fact slide across like butter and take the hairs off. I guess my angle was not where it needed to be.

As for facial prep, I didn't give that too much thought. Next time I shave, I will definitely pay more attention to this as well.

Thanks for all the advice!!!!

My advice for beard prep would be to shave after a hot shower. While in the shower if you condition your hair, rub it into your beard as well. It will soften the whiskers.
I wash my face, rub the whiskers with the shampoo I use on my hair which has conditioner and last but not least rub either Stephan's Shave Cream or Neutrogena shave cream into the beard , rinse it off and then shave.
My whiskers are always very soft when shave which makes for a pleasant experience.
I use the Stay Smooth on this page. Not expensive at all and the tub lasts over a year.

Williamsport Barber Supply - Stephan's Products

Enjoy