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Thread: No matter what I try, my razor just does not perform

  1. #1
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    Default No matter what I try, my razor just does not perform

    A few months ago, I bought a Dovo Best Quality (full hollow, 5/8") straight razor and it has never performed well. It is my first straight, so I thought for sure the problem was my technique. I took a step back, started DE shaving, and once I felt comfortable with the DE style razor I stepped up to a Feather No-Sharpen straight razor. My technique with the Feather is to the point where I can get a nice BBS shave with no irritation. Still, every time I bring out the Dovo, I have nothing but trouble. The blade does not feel like it cuts cleanly and smoothly like the Feather does. I sent it to Don to do a professional honing on it, and it still doesn't even come close to the Feather. I've tried stropping with chromium paste, which has only had a minimal effect. What else can I do to get a halfway decent shave from this razor?

  2. #2
    At this point in time... gssixgun's Avatar
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    I guess the only question left here is "Was it honed professionally by a well respected Honemiester" if so then the odds are the problem is the guy in the mirror somehow


    Edit: saw the end finally, that Don honed it, first step would be to contact him and get his opinion, and go from there
    Last edited by gssixgun; 08-01-2012 at 07:42 PM.

  3. #3
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    I've nowhere the level of razor expertise as some guys here, but I have several Dovos, including a Best Qual, use them regularly, and they're all superb shavers.

    One that I had trouble with in the past is a En Vogue No. 105 - "Damascus" stainless steel. Had a problem getting a good edge on it, but after pro honing by Lynn, it was fine again, and I've learned to maintain it through stropping, CrOX and occasional coticule laps.

    I would try running your Best Qual over a good finishing stone for 10-12 laps, then a few laps on a CrOx strop or hone, then plenty of stropping on leather. All with a light touch. When you shave with it, try out different angles - when starting out with straights, I found that I tended to keep the angle between edge and skin somewhat too acute, now it's settled in at around 30 deg. YMMV...

    Skin prep and lather can also make a huge difference. It took me a while to find the sweet spot there. Now I always use oil, and know exactly how thick/wet I want my lather for optimal results.

    Best wishes, -o

  4. #4
    aka shooter74743 ScottGoodman's Avatar
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    After you have spoken with Don & whatever transpires you may feel free to send it to me.

    I will inspect the razor & then shave with it, followed by a report to you. Just cover the return shipping.
    Last edited by ScottGoodman; 08-01-2012 at 08:37 PM.

  5. #5
    There is no charge for Awesomeness Jimbo's Avatar
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    I am sure if there is anything wrong with the blade Don will sort you out. Those guys at SRD know their stuff and stand behind their service.

    James.
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  6. #6
    'tis but a scratch! roughkype's Avatar
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    Did you strop your feather blades? This could be a stropping issue. You wouldn't be the first person to roll an edge while stropping. Shooter74743's offer is a good one. I know his edges are good.

    And I just looked back at your post count--Welcome!
    Last edited by roughkype; 08-01-2012 at 11:56 PM.
    "These aren't the droids you're looking for." "These aren't the droids we're looking for." "He can go about his business." "You can go about your business."

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    ScottGoodman (08-02-2012)

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