Doc I just finished honing my 2nd razor because of all your videos and I greatly appreciate everything you do....I wouldn't have ever believed I could do this ...but I do primarily because of you ,thank you brother for what it's worth this means alot to me to be able to do this
Hi, I purchased a THIERS-ISSARD le grelot brand new (shave ready) & it felt like a farm plough. The retailer said send it back and they will hone it for £60. I followed your instructions and it shaves like a dream.😊
It's a statement of independence, creating and keeping an edge with simple tools, staying sharp, self reliance, emblematic of a manifesto synthesized in a process.
Dr.Matt I just want to say you convinced me to pull out my stones and try sharpening them using a much simpler tutorial. Thxs I'm ready to try AGAIN !!!!
Hey Dr. Matt: I've been watching your videos and collecting razors for about a year. You really boiled it down to a simple process with this one. I'm starting to favor the heavier wedge blades. Also trying different soaps, lots of samplers. Keep 'em coming!
Hey Dr. Matt, glad to see another video. I found your videos about 4/5 months ago after gaining interest over straight razor shaving and I must say, watching you shave has given me a huge amount of excitement over learning the process. I spoke to my father about straight razors and he was explaining to me how my grandfather had three or four straight razors, stones and strops and thoroughly enjoyed his Sunday morning shave! My grandfather passed many years ago but we still have lots of his belongings around the house, stored away. I spent about 4 days absolutely gutting all of our storage trying to find these items but only found the strop unfortunately. I actually told my father if I found them I was going to contact you to ask some questions about the razors and perhaps get them honed! My family purchased me a Parker shavette, brush and shaving cream for my birthday to get me started on the process (appreciating it isn't the same as a straight razor) due to my excitement. Although I've had one or two (being generous to myself here haha) nicks, your videos have taught me how to safely shave with this apparatus and for that I am grateful! Id love to have this straight razor for four reasons, one: I want to experience all aspects of a straight razor shave using a straight razor rather than a shavette (the process of honing and stropping fascinates me in particular), two: I am 21 but born in the wrong era, anything traditional or 'old fashion' grabs my attention and I just have to give it a go/learn all I can, three: to have a straight razor honed by you, the reason I stick to learning the process, would honestly be pretty cool and something to cherish and four: it would be a pretty cool graduation present after three long years at university haha. Thanks Dr. Matt, I hope to see many videos in the future, stay safe! Jason.
This is the exact kind of video I've been missing! I'm just now starting out shaving with straight razors. Nice, short walkthrough of the basic set of stones. Generally it's hard to find info about what the lowest and highest grits one should go far, natural or synthetic, etc. You know what I'm talking about, it's a jungle when starting out. Anyway, this video was a good reminder to keep stuff simple and the fact that you'll be able to achieve a good edge without insane investments in gear! Thanks. Also, would love to add that razor to my collection :)
Incredible. I was thinking just this morning, as I was shaving with my late father's DE Gilette, that it is about time for a Dr Matt video. Thanks! I live overseas and picked up some old razors at a flea market. Would like to send you photos and get your opinion. Will send to you soon.
Great display from a master. I’ve spent hours on a razor going through the grits and was still not happy in the end. Took a lot of practice to get it down but in the end it is a good feeling to be able to put an edge on a tool. It’s a matter of independence for me. Been trying to teach my son to do it also but he is at that difficult age, hopefully he will pickup something by osmosis. Thank you for all your wonderful videos as they have taught me a lot. Now if I can only get that rolling x stroke but I still need more practice on that one, have a difficult near wedge razor that gives me fits but it sure is pretty.
Another great video. Man I wish we had the internet and your videos back in the eighties. I could have shown my barber a few tricks because back then there was only one freaking guy in the whole town that still offered shaves like this and the ones that still shaved with a straight acted like it was a big secret to even show a young man the little tricks they had learned over the years.
Top class vid again Doc, superb tutorial. I have been honing for a decade now and i love the way you understand the metal and when to use pressure or torque. You are a master of this art.
Hey.. Welcome back in making more videos, I probably looked in all your videos around. Not long time ago I called you on email in regards with a set of Shapton Glass going all the way to 16K, thanks for the advise on there but in the mean time I purchased 2 JNATS Nakiama Kiita and Ozuku Asagi plus a Coticule stone and I want to say that is a different level. I finally managed to make a shaving edge. With all this been said I will appreciate to have that razor to my collection to see what an edge of a PRO looks like.. If I will not be the lucky one, no problem...keep doing good videos.
No, pulling backwards and forward essentially does the same thing, it takes away material and sharpens the edge but going forward removed material better than backwards. It doesn’t mess up the blade but it will put a burr quicker than backwards and so if you don’t know how to deburr the edge it won’t cut because the burr is in the way.
I'm just now getting into this and looking for my first razor. I can see why this is a lost art of manliness--so much work involved but it's something I want to learn. My dad sharpens knives but he never shaves (he's always bearded). Me on the other hand, this is my next thing to learn and conquer. Just wish I could find a good beginner blade that isn't too expensive and good enough to be one to hold for years.
@@drmatt357 Hey thanks for asking! :) I bought an "amazon" straight razor to learn the basics but shortly found my "forever" straight razor--the handle is off-white /cream colored that almost looks like opal but not quite. In the handle is etched in raised silver letters in cursive "Easy Aces" as well as etched into the handle of the blade on one side. On the other side is "THE GENCO CO. Made in U.S.A. BRADFORD, PA." It's quite a beautiful blade but for some reason I can't get it to be sharper than it is or as much as I think it could be. I have sharpened it on my stone once and use the strop always. It seems like the end of the blade where I want to do detail work is the least sharp part. Going to have to try again or send it off for pro-sharpening! But it gets the job done (I mostly use it to edge around my 'stache and use an electric razor for my cheeks & chin since it's quick, though I have done a full shave with it before.
Honestly, my first razor and strop I bought at a Love's Truck stop while I was driving one day. Cost me around $30 and I've had it for two years and following Dr Matt's videos, I've managed to keep the shave great. Best of luck to you!
It does do that but not the reason I recommend it. I suggest beginners do it as it's easier to create the apex when not having to deal with wear on the spine as well.
Okay dude. Today I moved up to the majors after failing a number of times. Used the Scotch Super 88 tape on my vintage razor. Smooth as a baby’s bottom. Awesome. Amazing how a small bit of advice can make a major change. True about shaving, business and life. Thx, Dr Matt.
I have been de shaving for 3 years now. I have been wanting to get into straight razor shaving, but I have needed the sharpening guidance you have just given. Terrific Video!
Nice quick instructional video. I dig it. Thanks for posting. I try and tell people that it isn't an all day thing to put an edge on a razor. This proves it. Haha. Have a great week.
@@belowzero5817 It is doing very well. I had to grind down the heel a bit as the blade was uneven, I used a Wastikivi stone for that then I used a coticule with different slurries to get it as sharp as I could manage. Im sure its not nearly as sharp as it could be but it shaves well and so far ive only needed to used a strop to keep it going. but I think it is due a rehone now.
@@belowzero5817 very true, its not as easy as it seems. but I much rather use the straight razor now instead of a disposable, I actually enjoy doing it!
Your honing instruction videos have helped me develop the skill to get a razor shave-ready. I still haven’t gotten good enough to shave against the grain on my upper lip like you, but it’s nice to know I don’t have to buy a new razor every time the edge gets dull. I do not need another razor, but hopefully your give-away will convert another person to the SR community. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos.
sorry but i am looking forward to the answer. I'm a big fan of vintage things, especially about this vintage razor. it fascinates me and makes me want to create something special but Vietnam is nothing but the stories told by my ancestors. I am missing information about steel process and material (steel type). I tried consulting some people like LEWIS RAZORS. but that's still not enough, I failed several times. PLEASE . WHAT IS THE BEST MATERIAL FOR 1 Razor.And IMPORTANT INFORMATION? I REALLY THANK YOU
When i first learned to use a SR, HRH (my missus) got browned off with me going 'feel my face - smooooth'! Never thought of using a slurry on a 4k before, very helpful. T
Being a hunter I have been sharpening knives for 40 years. I thought sharpening straight razors would be a piece of cake seeing you are riding the spine on the stone giving you a consistent angle. Not the case. It has been quite the process learning how to hone straight razors. I have the stones you are using. Finally getting a razor I can shave with. It would be nice to have a razor that I could compare my progress with. Rite now I’m kind of in the “twilight zone”. Is it really sharp or just sharp enough.
Thank you for one of the best and simplest videos on How to sharpen a Straight razor! I just bought some vintage Cattagurus the Green Lizards. Can't wait to apply what you taught. Mark A.
Great video!...appreciate the enthusiasm...I’m interested in shaving with a straight razor and didn’t want to have to send it out for sharpening...This video took the mystery out of it... really liked the tape idea...have not seen that in other videos!..
Hey there Dr Matt! Loving the videos, I started following you just after I started shaving with a shavette (about 4 months ago). I've been amazed at how much its saving my skin! I bought a cheap older solingen made straight razor about a month ago and am quite excited to do dome very necessary bevel setting, which your videos are really helpful with. I must admit though, as I'm a professional circus acrobat, and am out of work for the next 6months (at least), times are tough. There's been a lot of adapting and hustling to get work in another sector, so buying a 'good' razor and a decent finishing stone is a bit tough. It would be pretty cool to get to handle a blade you've honed, and I'd be very grateful... But that said I already feel like your videos are such a huge help that I almost feel cheeky entering this. Thanks for doing your thing! 😊
I’m with Jeronimo... looks easy, but I’m not getting a good edge. Yet. Do you have a suggested link to the 4K/8k stone for us? As you may remember, I have the King Razor manufactures in my hometown of INDIANA, Pa and the TI to which you directed me. An eBay blade looks like a good way to gain skills without screwing up my “special” blades. Thanks for all you do, sir! You make it look easy!
Do you have a piece of tape on it Jeff? Make sure you kill it then bring it back. Stay on that stone until it cuts the skin then move on to the finish. The link to the 4/8 is up in the description. ⬆︎
@@drmatt357 I was surprised by the tape option. I've not used it. I'd thought that was to be used as a last resort when the bevel angle had been determined to be off or set that way by a previous user. I'm presuming that once I use the tape, I'd always use the tape? I'm not sure how - or whether - to use it on both of my razors. And thanks for the link!
I really appreciated the video when you sharpened and corrected the neck of smiley bald a that was from Ireland that was over 100 years old that was really neat.
I have quite a collection of DE razors, and I've designed quite a number of DE razors for 3d printing. Also, I've shaved with shavettes for years. But it took COVID for me to commit to the effort required to maintain a traditional straight. I'm still waiting for all the gear to arrive, but I appreciate channels like yours that havehelped me come up to speed. You seem to have found a $15 treasure so easily! I had to settle for a Gold Dollar for my first! Thanks and stay safe.
Started watching you 2 weeks ago Dr. Matt. Bought my first straight razor 3 weeks ago, shave ready (not so much). Watched your video about the only 2 stones a beginner needs. Proceeded to buy the Shapton 8k+ILR. They came in yesterday. I used them today exactly as you said in that same video and.....WOW, what an amazingly comfortable and close shave!!! I have so much to learn from you. Thank you so much Dr. Matt, you've made the daunting seem somewhat manageable!! I would love to win the razor in this video, #1) to shave with (duh) and #2) to have a benchmark to see what a pro-honed/ACTUAL shave ready straight razor is supposed to look+feel like! Thanks again!!
Great to see you again Dr Matt. All my razors are eBay beauties since down here in Aus a new one is just silly expensive. So we need to know how to fix up our blades. I would love to get this one to see and feel how good a Dr Matt edge is. See how far I have to grow with my honing or if I’m getting good edges also.
Nick Sharples - Good to hear from you Nick. For some reason I thought your were in Europe... sorry! My edges are not magical. If you do it like I show, yours will be the same. I really can’t rub steel on a rock better than anyone else. Cheers and thanks for stopping by.
Just got done using these stones but my finisher was a Shohonyama Nakayama Asagi JNat. Did this on my Grim Dollar. Wonderful results. She's all stropped up and raring to go!
Scott Schmitz - LOL! Not a thimble! It’s a shave cloth. My daughter makes them and I don’t recommend an alum block. 😏 ruclips.net/video/wZjS6RWxPnQ/видео.html
Seeing that you're placing tape on the spine does that necessitate that tape must be placed on the spine every time the razor needs to be honed, or can the tape then be left off?
Been using a parker shavette for a few years. Wife tried to get me a proper straight razor but it ended up a (as you put it in your email a rso) got the stones for sharpening and would love to give one that cuts a proper try.
Sam Zulauf I have a classic Samurai Shavette. The stainless steel one. It was the first thing I bought when I got into Traditional WetShaving. Lol and my first Safety razor was the Muhle-R41 😁✌️
Thank you Dr. Matt this is the best video I’ve seen on a beginners first blade sharpening. Well done you’re awesome ! Please keep the videos coming! I really want to learn how to sharpen my own razor. Thanks again. Be safe and stay healthy.
I'm a newbie at wet shaving, I bought a haw&Simmons razor on ebay and can't get a shave ready edge, I would love to have a blade to compare it to, fingers are crossed, love your site.
Because you have added tape through the whole process would you have to do the same when you next strop it? When you come to next sharpening the blade would you apply tape again?
Fank234 - not when you strop but if you sharpen it again yes. After you get the hang of it and can consistently get decent shaving edges time after time, try pulling the tape when going to the stones.
my razor did some angry bird noises when doing edge trailing, or spine leading moves on one of the finer stones. and "bolster" seemed to get in the way a lot of the time.
Try a drop of dish soap on the stone, that’ll quiet it down. Regarding the bolster, try tilting the razor at a 45° angle with the heel leading, that can help. If that’s not enough check my video on how to fix the stabilizer.
Thank you for great video and explanation. You were very specific about what kind of electrical tape to use - but I'm living in a different country (Japan). So - how do I look for the tape I want? Kind of look for the thickest tape available?
You're welcome James! You can use regular 3M electrical tape. I'm pretty sure that's in Japan. I use the Super 88 because it's a bit thicker but also more abrasive resistant when rubbing on the stones but regular 3M Scotch 33 (or the multiple colored ones which are 35) work fine.
I live about 15 miles from Trenton, as an amateur historian and razor geek, it would be cool to have a Trenton Razor. In addition, as a razor evangelist, I'm always spotting newbies razors and brushes etc, so it would be cool to have something circle back.
not having to much luck picking up razors myself, bad pitting, badly worn or my last one blade split right in the middle about a 1/4 inch long, still sharpened it though. practice makes perfect, so they say.
Really appreciate your vids very informative ,I have a GD I got from the stallion a little over a year ago and love it, only got a couple little knicks from it until the other day... after a long day and a couple crown and cokes is not a good time to put a sharp blade to your face, wasn’t pretty almost had to get stitches lol.. thx again doc.
Quick question Gonna start learning to set a bevel, and this video made me decide to get a 4K or 5k stone. Which would be a better stone? The Naniwa 5k s2 Super Stone, or the Shapton Kuromaku 5k? I just purchased the Naniwa s2 8k and 12k which will be arriving any day now. They say the Kuromaku cracks in hot weather...and I’m about 45 minutes north of Sacramento, in hot weather. Loving your videos. Learning a lot.
Raymond Moreno - I don’t think you can wrong with either of those 5Ks. If you have the Naniwa 8&12 then I’d stick with the same brand for the 5. LOL, I live in the desert, was 110° yesterday and my Shaptons are still in one piece and have been for nearly 10 years.
DrMatt357 - Kewl. It was 104° today here in Roseville, CA. Thanks! Oh...by the way. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone shave with a SR as assertively, smoothly, and confidently as you. Just saying. Keep up with the good videos. Super informative.
Hey so just watched your video and can I use any brand sharpening stone and also I don’t want to spend a ton of money on stones and also the grit does it have to be 4k,8k,12k?
Another great one Dr Matt 👍🏼 Short and simple but with enough detail to get it right and keep you out of trouble 😉. You have always been there to help me along the way. The 8k Shapton I got from you is excellent. Would love to see this razor come my way. Fan of Trenton Razors and their Boker connection. Plus I have a wife that thinks I’m nuts every time I even look at razors on eBay. When she hears you or Keith or Lynn on RUclips I get the “not that again” ! So I would Love the chance to Stick It To Her ! 😆
DrMatt357 Hey Dr Matt, thanks for responding. Well the “Trenton” trade mark was used by Boker since 1905. I have a history picture here too but I don’t know if I can send it to you on here. I’ll send it to the email you gave me awhile back. I love printing these things out and putting them up on the bathroom wall. Luckily we have two bathrooms and about 3 weeks ago (after hearing all the complaints about my shaving soaps etc) I claimed one bathroom as MINE ! LOL ! Oh man when I took all of the flowery pictures down and put up razor history and shaving pictures she flipped. I always say well I can start collecting guns instead .. and that usually ends it pretty quick 😂. Anyway I was looking all of this stuff up awhile back because I was actually looking at a Trenton razor but got outbid. I wound up going for a Colonial razor which has a cool history too and was great after I followed your wobble test and straightened out a high spot in the middle of the spine on one side. I didn’t tape it though and I think that is what I will do next bevel setting. Either that or your back bevel technique. Because I know it can be sharper and I am thinking it was too much metal on the stone (stiction) or bevel angle off. ...sorry for rambling. But this is a great hobby and I love learning from you guys. I’ll send that picture to your email.Thanks for considering me. I can hear my wife now “Did you buy another razor “ ?!! 😂
@@jbgearhead - WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!! Need your mailing address JB. You can email it to me. Also included whenever someone gets a razor from me is a years worth of re-sharpening. Congrats!
DrMatt357 WOW ! Thank you so much Dr Matt ! 🙏🏻 That is just Awesome ! You made my Friday work day here fantastic ! Looking forward to posting a picture and a big thanks in SRP FB site 👍🏼
Good Video Dr. Matt. A quick "crash course" intro into getting started with straight razors. I hope you still have in archive those videos you did 5 years ago that get into more detail with technique. Glad to see you are well. Have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend. Cheers!
Hey Dr Matt, great video, I have used my stones to varying degrees of success, but I feel inspired by your instruction, that’s what I will be doing this weekend.
HOLY SUPER SHARP EDGE BATMAN! Matt, I saw this this morning, went out and bought some of that same tape and some tomatoes. Followed your instructions as closely as possible and WOW! Sliced through that tomato on the 4K and 8K like a hot knife through butter! One final question: Should I strop it now or tomorrow just before I shave?
Great going Pauli! I was following the feed on FB. I love hearing the "GOTTA SET THE BEVEL" crowd chime in with having to get the 1K and grind the shit out of the blade. They're like clock work. 3,2,1... there they go! 😆 Bevel setting is over rated! Strop after having it on the stone. If you have a prep strop or linen, go 20 and then 40 on leather. Just before the shave, go 10/20.
@@drmatt357 thanks for this also. I'm glad you clarified not using the 1K for something like this. I was tempted but I'm glad I jumped in with the group. But I've always been one to bow to experience....it's like personality, and personality goes a long way with me!
Hey good afternoon Doc i hope you’re having a day so far. My name is Ben and i’m a total newb it comes to straight razors. However i really dig your channel and I’m picking up on some useful things so thank you for that. You definitely seem like you know your stuff. An so i was wondering if you could make a video about the proper way to strop. Specifically on techniques like how to practice stropping and what things to practice to get the most out of your practice if that makes sense.
I have a question hopefully you will respond. I've bought a couple Shapton stones; 2K 5K 8K 12K and also an Atoma Diamond Plate 1200 grit because otherwise i'd leave marks in my finishing stones when lapping. But here is my question, would you recommend me to buy another diamond plate that is rougher, like is a 400 and a 1200 good to have or would i need to go lower in grit for the rougher whet stones? And also at which whet stone grit would you stop using the 1200 diamond plate, maybe stop using the 1200 plate at a 5K whet stone and then go lower in grit? Atoma sells 140, 400, 600, 1200 diamond plates and like i just said i've already ordered the 1200 one, would you recommend a second plate, if so which one. Thanks in advance.
The 1200 should be fine for not only lapping ALL of your stones including your finish stones (I use my 400 on my finish stones) but you can use it as a bevel setter and even skip the 2K and go straight to the 5... that's what I do.
The only stone I have is the Naniwa SS12K and it, along with your instruction, have been instrumental in keeping my only razor tip-top. It came to me professionally honed so I didn't have worry about the lower grit stones. I just had to worry about keeping the edge finely polished which I can do with the 12K and a good strop. Straight razor shaving, to me, necessitates the need to be able to hone your razor. As you say, it's not that hard and the satisfaction I get being able to do that myself is its own reward. I get it.
Hi DrMatt, thank you for this great video. One question, do I have to put the tape back on the razor each time before I can hone it on the leather to prepare it for the next shave? Greetings from Germany
@@vassiliostsokis9854 - Guten Tag Mate! No need to put tape on when stropping on leather, linen or any other material regardless if you used it while sharpening on the stones.
Great video series you got going there. I purchased a W. H. Morley about 2 weeks ago. I have not used it yet, as I wanted to make sure it had a good edge. Which brings me to where I am now. I just ordered a Gold Dollar SR from Amazon. And then I ordered an 8k and 12k Naniwa stones. Gonna practice on the Gold Dollar with that. My W H Morley was sharpened on tape (from what the seller told me), so I am on the wall now. Do I continue sharpening with tape, or do I purchase a decent 4K stone, and start a new bevel? Great videos. Much has been learned, and I am still learning. Don’t know if the giveaway razor is gone, but it’d sure be nice to have a good, sharpened, razor on-hand to see what one is supposed to look and feel like. Once again, great videos!
Raymond Moreno - stick with the tape. Wait until you can repeatedly put a decent edge on different razors until trying to attempt structural corrections.
DrMatt357 - Thanks. I’ve ground down and corrected the stabilizer on the Gold Dollar, like on your other video. (I immediately noticed it got in the way when sharpening the heel of the blade). Perfect now. The Gold Dollar is consistently popping held hairs after honing and stropping. I’ve decided to continue sharpening the WH Morley with tape, and that bad boy is also popping hairs ridiculously well.
Dear Sir-Is the purpose of the tape to preserve the edge of the spine? One of my favorite razors has a pronounced flat and has been professionally honed several times. Thanx for any details concerning this-John in Texas
The purpose of the tape in this video is to make it easier to form the apex or bevel set. Some guys use tape for cosmetic purpose but I usually don't but for beginners, it's usually easy with tape.
Great video. I've never used a straight razer before and this was a great little video. I have used double-edged safety razers but I would like to move into this. Now to go look at your other videos and see if you recommend brands. Since I never win anything lol.
Nice video, it was helpful. I have a question! I shave every day with a straight razor. I have about 13 old style straight razors and they all pull a little bit on the whiskers. I have the disposable blade straight razors too that I use Feather blades in (the double edge type. You break them in half). The Feather blade shaves effortlessly, no pull on the whispers. Let's say, that's a 10/10 comfortable shave. What would you rate a regular straight razor shave as? Like a 8/10? You can hear a regular straight razor cutting hair, but not so with a Feather blade straight razor. I'm just wondering if I have never used a truly perfectly honed straight razor. I do have tough facial hair like a caveman. Thanks again for your videos.
A straight razor will not feel like a shavette. It won’t approach that effortless glide you mention but they shouldn’t tug and most people think they’re more comfortable. When they’re hyper sharp like the Feather, they can remove a layer of skin.
Perfect Matt! This info is great because its simple and proven from someone with experience. I needed honing for dummies! Which is the better stone for finishing ILR or the one used in the vid? Just after best results. Thanks again! (I only have 1 straight 😬) Steve
Thanks Steve. They're both good finishers. I think the ILR is a bit cheaper. If you get the 2X6 stone as in my video, use code DRMATT2X6 for a $5 discount.
It should work for a dull razor. If there are chips or other gouges, you may need a 1K but if you’re just starting out, I would not recommend it because if you do too much, which would be easy on a 1K or lower grit, you’d ruin the razor.
I'd really enjoy taking this razor even further than 12k synthetic on my ~4.5-5 hard Shouhonyama Nashiji using a progression of the finer of the Asano Tomas [for instance Mejiro+ Koma + even a Tomo Nakayama] to a legendary cloudy bevel perhaps....and THEN check out how it will shave.....
Angelos Baikos - Ti Kaneis Angelos! Yes, that would be a wicked sharp edge... but probably a bit of an advanced stone progression for a guy just starting out. 😉
It can be both. In this video I recommend it to make it easier to hit the edge (which is essentially increasing the angle). I would say most guys who use it tho do it for cosmetic reasons. Ideally, you wouldn't want to use it as it was designed to be sharpened without tape. This video clip is the best explanation I've heard: ruclips.net/video/WECHanHc8Ko/видео.htmlm22s
I agree there is a great feeling from taking steel to stone and coming up with a shaving sharp edge! Don't need the razor I have enough! give it to someone that will enjoy it!
Dr Matt Howdy! I am new to your channel and I dig your videos on the straight razors. I just bought my first straight razor at the age of 70 and had a question for you. Is putting the 3M tape needed every time I sharpen it or is it just for the first time only? Because I see you sharpening razors without the tape. Just curious. I like how you get into explaining things. Thanks Craig
Most of the time I do not use tape but remember this is for beginners and the tape will make it easier to form an apex and get a shaving edge from the get go.
Thanks for the video Dr.Matt. I've been looking at getting into honing my own razors and seeing what you do for a basic hone job is awesome. Hopefully I'll have the coin this summer to start entering another rabbit hole.
Same difference... they're usually in the 20-30X range so that's fine. I don't have a loupe with a light and with my old eyes, I need it as bright as I can get it.
Thanks Dr Matt. Just honed my first straight razor, a 1930s hollow ground The Flic. English Diamond Steel. £12 off eBay. Honed if using your technique on Naniwa 3K, 8K and 12K then 40 passes on a leather strop. First shave like a knife through butter! My only query is that it’s REALLY loud! Is this normal or am I holding it wrongly?
Great job Mark! Full hollow grinds can make a lot of noise. Just make sure you keep the spine close to your face. Not more than 1/4” away. That’s about 6mm for you metric blokes. 😏
@@drmatt357 don’t worry, I use the same units as the colonies🇬🇧. 😳 thanks for the advice, the noise really put me off initially. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos. Found a couple of really old wedge razors (18th and early 19th century) but need a lot of cleaning and I don’t think my honing skills are up to the challenge yet. Keep up the good work
Just to let you know that the strop URL does not work, was watching this vid because I thought about buying myself a brand new Dovo and was looking for tips on how to sharpen it when/if I get one, thanks for the vid
Very helpful video! I have a vintage razor I’ve been trying to get a good shave with. Not successfully done yet, but I won’t give up. Would be great to have a razor that you honed. To see what a truly sharp blade should feel like. Congrats to the blessed person who gets this razor. Thank you for this opportunity Dr. Matt. Take care all.
Hello Dr. Matt I just ordered the strop you talked about in this video. Nice looking razor how different is the shave compared to a near wedge? A near wedge is all I own and use as of now never used a full hollow ground razor. Keep posting the great videos. Thanks Dr Matt.
Thanks for this video,i m new in this and i manage to fix edge with a small coticule stone.if i put the tape the first time i must put always a tape or doesn t matter?i buy a cheap razor for 25euro from internet,the metal of course isnt like the 150euros razors.does the metals can affect the sharpening or you can have the same cut in two different qualitys razors?
Yes, if you use tape to start, you will need to always use it on the razor. Yes, the metal can make a difference in the edge. Some metal is so cheap, it will never take an edge. If you would like to email me a picture of the razor, I should be able to tell if it can get sharp enough to shave. drmatt1911@gmail.com
Hi Doc, I am a bit confused (ok, very confused) about bevel setting. I have bought some blunt old razors from ebay, primarily to practice with and to learn some technique, but I am hopeful that I might get to shave with one of them. So, if I follow the process in this video, does it assume that the bevel has already been set, or are you setting the bevel during this process? I watched a video of another guy, demonstrating how to set a bevel, and his process is very similar to yours except that he is using a 1000 grit stone. How will I know if I need to set a bevel?
Those are good questions Stuart and I will answer them but first let me ask you a question. From your understanding, what is or define “setting a bevel” and how do you know when you get there?
@@drmatt357 Well, in all honesty, my understanding is very vague, but I sort of understood that it's the first step to sharpening a razor (or sometimes it is!) So in my head, it's about getting the apex on the blade to have the correct geometry, before you really start to hone it to the correct sharpness. The problem that I seem to have is that when I go through all the steps and the razor still isn't sharp enough, I don't know which step I didn't get right - or maybe it's all of them!!
I have a video called the 5 things you must know about bevel setting, it’s pretty good. Are you using a piece of tape as I show here and what brand stones are you using? If the edge is touching down on the stone the entire length and it cuts the tomato skin at a mid grit level, you’re good.
@@drmatt357 thanks for taking the time to reply to my questions. I am using ordinary insulating tape, but have ordered the Scotch 88. I've been using an assortment of stones - not terrible ones, there's a Norton in there, but I've ordered a really nice set of Shaptons, and I will redo my razor on those when they arrive. On the plus side, I did manage about half a shave with the razor yesterday - it wasn't very comfortable and I finished off with a DE, but half a shave is better than nothing right? It means my razor got pretty close to being shave ready, doesn't it?
Doc on the Norton 4/8K stone is it a splash and go or does it need soaked in water for a bit? My Shapton 5K I’ve got now doesn’t cut as good as the one I had a few years back.
The Norton, the 4K side requires a soak for a minute or 2. The 8K side is splash and go. If you have the Shapton 5, don't replace it with the Norton. The Norton 4K tends to dish quite a bit. I haven't heard that the Shaptons have changed their formula but I guess it's possible. Make sure it's flat tho... that can make it not want to behave properly.
I saw you stropping with the tape on when you finished honing (convenience) But is it okay to strop without the tape on if you honed with tape on? I don't think that will roll the edge right..
I love this man so much this is awesome you are so easy to listen to and follow and you offer real information I absolutely love it keep doing these I was literally about to spend 335$ on a straight razor because mine had a frown in it I guess you could call it a frowning razor
What grits are those? Is that all you need for old razors too? 4k, 8k and 12k? And a leather strop too I guess? Are all of those stones really necessary for an amateur? Or is one enough?
@@drmatt357 Okay! I am on a budget however. Can I get 4k If I only could buy one? I only care that it cuts the hair smoothly.. I don't care about micro serrations or how you call it. I need something practical only. Thanks for your reply.
@@drmatt357 wow, thanks for such a good answer! I will go with that. I guess If it does not have an effect I really need to use some coarser grits before.
Doc I just finished honing my 2nd razor because of all your videos and I greatly appreciate everything you do....I wouldn't have ever believed I could do this ...but I do primarily because of you ,thank you brother for what it's worth this means alot to me to be able to do this
That's awesome!! Makes your balls feel huge, don't it!!
😂 you da man Doc
Hi, I purchased a THIERS-ISSARD le grelot brand new (shave ready) & it felt like a farm plough. The retailer said send it back and they will hone it for £60.
I followed your instructions and it shaves like a dream.😊
@@Doowickeybob - Right on! I love it. 😁 I’m sure it came out better with you doing it and it save you 60 bucks! Great job.
Short n sweet method. No frills, just efficiency & results. That IMO is a true art form. Love it!!
It's a statement of independence, creating and keeping an edge with simple tools, staying sharp, self reliance, emblematic of a manifesto synthesized in a process.
Ian Sinclair - Well said Ian. Eff The Man!😉
No one puts a better edge than Dr.Matt
Dr.Matt I just want to say you convinced me to pull out my stones and try sharpening them using a much simpler tutorial. Thxs I'm ready to try AGAIN !!!!
Hey Dr. Matt: I've been watching your videos and collecting razors for about a year. You really boiled it down to a simple process with this one. I'm starting to favor the heavier wedge blades. Also trying different soaps, lots of samplers. Keep 'em coming!
Hey Dr. Matt, glad to see another video. I found your videos about 4/5 months ago after gaining interest over straight razor shaving and I must say, watching you shave has given me a huge amount of excitement over learning the process. I spoke to my father about straight razors and he was explaining to me how my grandfather had three or four straight razors, stones and strops and thoroughly enjoyed his Sunday morning shave! My grandfather passed many years ago but we still have lots of his belongings around the house, stored away. I spent about 4 days absolutely gutting all of our storage trying to find these items but only found the strop unfortunately. I actually told my father if I found them I was going to contact you to ask some questions about the razors and perhaps get them honed! My family purchased me a Parker shavette, brush and shaving cream for my birthday to get me started on the process (appreciating it isn't the same as a straight razor) due to my excitement. Although I've had one or two (being generous to myself here haha) nicks, your videos have taught me how to safely shave with this apparatus and for that I am grateful! Id love to have this straight razor for four reasons, one: I want to experience all aspects of a straight razor shave using a straight razor rather than a shavette (the process of honing and stropping fascinates me in particular), two: I am 21 but born in the wrong era, anything traditional or 'old fashion' grabs my attention and I just have to give it a go/learn all I can, three: to have a straight razor honed by you, the reason I stick to learning the process, would honestly be pretty cool and something to cherish and four: it would be a pretty cool graduation present after three long years at university haha. Thanks Dr. Matt, I hope to see many videos in the future, stay safe! Jason.
Jxsonmuss - Great story Jason. You’re in!
DrMatt357 Thank you!
This is the exact kind of video I've been missing! I'm just now starting out shaving with straight razors. Nice, short walkthrough of the basic set of stones. Generally it's hard to find info about what the lowest and highest grits one should go far, natural or synthetic, etc. You know what I'm talking about, it's a jungle when starting out. Anyway, this video was a good reminder to keep stuff simple and the fact that you'll be able to achieve a good edge without insane investments in gear! Thanks. Also, would love to add that razor to my collection :)
It is a jungle... but I'm right! 😉
Incredible. I was thinking just this morning, as I was shaving with my late father's DE Gilette, that it is about time for a Dr Matt video. Thanks!
I live overseas and picked up some old razors at a flea market. Would like to send you photos and get your opinion. Will send to you soon.
Great display from a master. I’ve spent hours on a razor going through the grits and was still not happy in the end. Took a lot of practice to get it down but in the end it is a good feeling to be able to put an edge on a tool. It’s a matter of independence for me. Been trying to teach my son to do it also but he is at that difficult age, hopefully he will pickup something by osmosis. Thank you for all your wonderful videos as they have taught me a lot. Now if I can only get that rolling x stroke but I still need more practice on that one, have a difficult near wedge razor that gives me fits but it sure is pretty.
Thanks I've been trying to sharpen my own now I see I need better stones I've been using the lansky system to no avail thanks DR Matt
Another great video. Man I wish we had the internet and your videos back in the eighties. I could have shown my barber a few tricks because back then there was only one freaking guy in the whole town that still offered shaves like this and the ones that still shaved with a straight acted like it was a big secret to even show a young man the little tricks they had learned over the years.
James Heath - Thanks Jim. Unfortunately there aren’t any barbers using straights now as they all use the shavettes with disposable blades.
I missed you!
eBay razors are fun surprise. One of my favorites (Genco Gold Seal) was a nearly a "pig in a poke" is was so blury.
Top class vid again Doc, superb tutorial. I have been honing for a decade now and i love the way you understand the metal and when to use pressure or torque. You are a master of this art.
Thank you kindly!
Hey..
Welcome back in making more videos, I probably looked in all your videos around. Not long time ago I called you on email in regards with a set of Shapton Glass going all the way to 16K, thanks for the advise on there but in the mean time I purchased 2 JNATS Nakiama Kiita and Ozuku Asagi plus a Coticule stone and I want to say that is a different level. I finally managed to make a shaving edge. With all this been said I will appreciate to have that razor to my collection to see what an edge of a PRO looks like..
If I will not be the lucky one, no problem...keep doing good videos.
DRAC K - Thanks Mate, you’re in!
Why wouldn’t you just pull the razor backwards? Doesn’t going forward mess up the edge?
No, pulling backwards and forward essentially does the same thing, it takes away material and sharpens the edge but going forward removed material better than backwards. It doesn’t mess up the blade but it will put a burr quicker than backwards and so if you don’t know how to deburr the edge it won’t cut because the burr is in the way.
I'm so excited to start my honing journey cant wait to shave with my own edge
The Dude Of Shaving - So are you “The Dude” that Ant.- Knee was talking about that caught shit for using a dirty word(s) in YOUR video?
@@drmatt357 yeah man I was just having fun I wasnt hurting anyone.
I'm just passionate about SR shaving and everything about it.
@@drmatt357 love your channel by the way very informative
I have watched so many videos on how to do this process and this is the first one to actually work. Thank you.
I'm just now getting into this and looking for my first razor. I can see why this is a lost art of manliness--so much work involved but it's something I want to learn. My dad sharpens knives but he never shaves (he's always bearded). Me on the other hand, this is my next thing to learn and conquer. Just wish I could find a good beginner blade that isn't too expensive and good enough to be one to hold for years.
How’d you make out on this Joey?
@@drmatt357 Hey thanks for asking! :) I bought an "amazon" straight razor to learn the basics but shortly found my "forever" straight razor--the handle is off-white /cream colored that almost looks like opal but not quite. In the handle is etched in raised silver letters in cursive "Easy Aces" as well as etched into the handle of the blade on one side. On the other side is "THE GENCO CO. Made in U.S.A. BRADFORD, PA."
It's quite a beautiful blade but for some reason I can't get it to be sharper than it is or as much as I think it could be. I have sharpened it on my stone once and use the strop always. It seems like the end of the blade where I want to do detail work is the least sharp part. Going to have to try again or send it off for pro-sharpening! But it gets the job done (I mostly use it to edge around my 'stache and use an electric razor for my cheeks & chin since it's quick, though I have done a full shave with it before.
Honestly, my first razor and strop I bought at a Love's Truck stop while I was driving one day. Cost me around $30 and I've had it for two years and following Dr Matt's videos, I've managed to keep the shave great. Best of luck to you!
so what value does the tape bring then? is it just to put the edge at a less shallow angle to the stone when honing?
It does do that but not the reason I recommend it. I suggest beginners do it as it's easier to create the apex when not having to deal with wear on the spine as well.
Okay dude. Today I moved up to the majors after failing a number of times. Used the Scotch Super 88 tape on my vintage razor. Smooth as a baby’s bottom. Awesome. Amazing how a small bit of advice can make a major change. True about shaving, business and life. Thx, Dr Matt.
Jeffrey Tobin - Pretty cool and satisfying doin it yourself, right?😏
DrMatt357 very.
I have been de shaving for 3 years now. I have been wanting to get into straight razor shaving, but I have needed the sharpening guidance you have just given. Terrific Video!
Easy to understand, concise, no technical mumbo jumbo. Thanks Matt
Thanks for stopping by Ronnie!
Nice quick instructional video. I dig it. Thanks for posting. I try and tell people that it isn't an all day thing to put an edge on a razor. This proves it. Haha. Have a great week.
Literally just got my first e bay razor 4 days ago! Dr. Matt on point!
Out of curiosity how’s the razor ?
@@belowzero5817 It is doing very well. I had to grind down the heel a bit as the blade was uneven, I used a Wastikivi stone for that then I used a coticule with different slurries to get it as sharp as I could manage. Im sure its not nearly as sharp as it could be but it shaves well and so far ive only needed to used a strop to keep it going. but I think it is due a rehone now.
dundalk holly that’s pretty cool I also got an eBay razor, honed it following this video this man makes it look too easy Lol
@@belowzero5817 very true, its not as easy as it seems. but I much rather use the straight razor now instead of a disposable, I actually enjoy doing it!
Your honing instruction videos have helped me develop the skill to get a razor shave-ready. I still haven’t gotten good enough to shave against the grain on my upper lip like you, but it’s nice to know I don’t have to buy a new razor every time the edge gets dull.
I do not need another razor, but hopefully your give-away will convert another person to the SR community. Thank you for taking the time to make these videos.
sorry but i am looking forward to the answer. I'm a big fan of vintage things, especially about this vintage razor. it fascinates me and makes me want to create something special but Vietnam is nothing but the stories told by my ancestors. I am missing information about steel process and material (steel type). I tried consulting some people like LEWIS RAZORS. but that's still not enough, I failed several times.
PLEASE . WHAT IS THE BEST MATERIAL FOR 1 Razor.And IMPORTANT INFORMATION? I REALLY THANK YOU
When i first learned to use a SR, HRH (my missus) got browned off with me going 'feel my face - smooooth'!
Never thought of using a slurry on a 4k before, very helpful.
T
Being a hunter I have been sharpening knives for 40 years. I thought sharpening straight razors would be a piece of cake seeing you are riding the spine on the stone giving you a consistent angle. Not the case. It has been quite the process learning how to hone straight razors. I have the stones you are using. Finally getting a razor I can shave with. It would be nice to have a razor that I could compare my progress with. Rite now I’m kind of in the “twilight zone”. Is it really sharp or just sharp enough.
You can compare it to a shavette with a DE blade. Won't be exactly the same but will give you an idea.
Thank you for one of the best and simplest videos on How to sharpen a Straight razor! I just bought some vintage Cattagurus the Green Lizards. Can't wait to apply what you taught. Mark A.
How's it coming along for you Mark?
Great video!...appreciate the enthusiasm...I’m interested in shaving with a straight razor and didn’t want to have to send it out for sharpening...This video took the mystery out of it... really liked the tape idea...have not seen that in other videos!..
Hey there Dr Matt! Loving the videos, I started following you just after I started shaving with a shavette (about 4 months ago). I've been amazed at how much its saving my skin! I bought a cheap older solingen made straight razor about a month ago and am quite excited to do dome very necessary bevel setting, which your videos are really helpful with. I must admit though, as I'm a professional circus acrobat, and am out of work for the next 6months (at least), times are tough. There's been a lot of adapting and hustling to get work in another sector, so buying a 'good' razor and a decent finishing stone is a bit tough. It would be pretty cool to get to handle a blade you've honed, and I'd be very grateful... But that said I already feel like your videos are such a huge help that I almost feel cheeky entering this. Thanks for doing your thing! 😊
You're in Chuck!
I’m with Jeronimo... looks easy, but I’m not getting a good edge. Yet. Do you have a suggested link to the 4K/8k stone for us? As you may remember, I have the King Razor manufactures in my hometown of INDIANA, Pa and the TI to which you directed me. An eBay blade looks like a good way to gain skills without screwing up my “special” blades. Thanks for all you do, sir! You make it look easy!
Do you have a piece of tape on it Jeff? Make sure you kill it then bring it back. Stay on that stone until it cuts the skin then move on to the finish.
The link to the 4/8 is up in the description. ⬆︎
@@drmatt357 I was surprised by the tape option. I've not used it. I'd thought that was to be used as a last resort when the bevel angle had been determined to be off or set that way by a previous user. I'm presuming that once I use the tape, I'd always use the tape? I'm not sure how - or whether - to use it on both of my razors. And thanks for the link!
I really appreciated the video when you sharpened and corrected the neck of smiley bald a that was from Ireland that was over 100 years old that was really neat.
Jonathan Bailey - Thanks Johnny! That was a fun one. 😁
Doc is back!! Hope you and family have been well, sir. Are you planning on making some shaving videos soon?
Thomas the Shaver - Thanks Tom. I don’t want to be a shave channel but if it has to do with sharpening, I can discuss it while shaving. 😉
I have quite a collection of DE razors, and I've designed quite a number of DE razors for 3d printing. Also, I've shaved with shavettes for years. But it took COVID for me to commit to the effort required to maintain a traditional straight. I'm still waiting for all the gear to arrive, but I appreciate channels like yours that havehelped me come up to speed. You seem to have found a $15 treasure so easily! I had to settle for a Gold Dollar for my first! Thanks and stay safe.
Inspired by this video, I managed to snag a 1957 Soviet straight -- looking forward to making it shine.
Started watching you 2 weeks ago Dr. Matt. Bought my first straight razor 3 weeks ago, shave ready (not so much). Watched your video about the only 2 stones a beginner needs. Proceeded to buy the Shapton 8k+ILR. They came in yesterday. I used them today exactly as you said in that same video and.....WOW, what an amazingly comfortable and close shave!!! I have so much to learn from you. Thank you so much Dr. Matt, you've made the daunting seem somewhat manageable!! I would love to win the razor in this video, #1) to shave with (duh) and #2) to have a benchmark to see what a pro-honed/ACTUAL shave ready straight razor is supposed to look+feel like! Thanks again!!
Dis shit works! Thanks Drew
Great to see you again Dr Matt.
All my razors are eBay beauties since down here in Aus a new one is just silly expensive. So we need to know how to fix up our blades.
I would love to get this one to see and feel how good a Dr Matt edge is. See how far I have to grow with my honing or if I’m getting good edges also.
Nick Sharples - Good to hear from you Nick. For some reason I thought your were in Europe... sorry!
My edges are not magical. If you do it like I show, yours will be the same. I really can’t rub steel on a rock better than anyone else. Cheers and thanks for stopping by.
Dr Matt, I think you should send that razor to the UK. Thanks for all your help.
Just got done using these stones but my finisher was a Shohonyama Nakayama Asagi JNat. Did this on my Grim Dollar. Wonderful results. She's all stropped up and raring to go!
Way to go Gurl!
Hear this Guys? No excuses!!😏
The Norton 4000/8000 is about $100 on Amazon. I wonder if there are any cheaper but still adequate options.
If you find one, let me know.
The thimble is an awesome idea. I typically rub my fingers on an alum block for the grip
Scott Schmitz - LOL! Not a thimble! It’s a shave cloth. My daughter makes them and I don’t recommend an alum block. 😏 ruclips.net/video/wZjS6RWxPnQ/видео.html
Seeing that you're placing tape on the spine does that necessitate that tape must be placed on the spine every time the razor needs to be honed, or can the tape then be left off?
Hey Dr.Matt, great video. I’ve been using a Parker shavette for about a year and want switch to a real straight razor. Your videos are super
helpful.
Been using a parker shavette for a few years. Wife tried to get me a proper straight razor but it ended up a (as you put it in your email a rso) got the stones for sharpening and would love to give one that cuts a proper try.
Sam Zulauf I have a classic Samurai Shavette. The stainless steel one. It was the first thing I bought when I got into Traditional WetShaving. Lol and my first Safety razor was the Muhle-R41 😁✌️
Thank you Dr. Matt this is the best video I’ve seen on a beginners first blade sharpening. Well done you’re awesome ! Please keep the videos coming! I really want to learn how to sharpen my own razor. Thanks again. Be safe and stay healthy.
Teri Barba Arias -Thanks Teri and glad you can make use of the content.
Dr Matt never fails to make a great video... interesting/educational especially for people just getting into straight razor shaving.
I'm a newbie at wet shaving, I bought a haw&Simmons razor on ebay and can't get a shave ready edge, I would love to have a blade to compare it to, fingers are crossed, love your site.
Brad Amedee - I’ve never heard of that brand Brad. It might be a fake razor. Send me a pic.
Because you have added tape through the whole process would you have to do the same when you next strop it?
When you come to next sharpening the blade would you apply tape again?
Fank234 - not when you strop but if you sharpen it again yes. After you get the hang of it and can consistently get decent shaving edges time after time, try pulling the tape when going to the stones.
my razor did some angry bird noises when doing edge trailing, or spine leading moves on one of the finer stones. and "bolster" seemed to get in the way a lot of the time.
Try a drop of dish soap on the stone, that’ll quiet it down. Regarding the bolster, try tilting the razor at a 45° angle with the heel leading, that can help. If that’s not enough check my video on how to fix the stabilizer.
Dr. Matt, thanks again for refining my razor! Scott G from Bryan, TX
Thank you for great video and explanation. You were very specific about what kind of electrical tape to use - but I'm living in a different country (Japan). So - how do I look for the tape I want? Kind of look for the thickest tape available?
You're welcome James! You can use regular 3M electrical tape. I'm pretty sure that's in Japan. I use the Super 88 because it's a bit thicker but also more abrasive resistant when rubbing on the stones but regular 3M Scotch 33 (or the multiple colored ones which are 35) work fine.
I shaved with my first edge last week and it felt great!
I live about 15 miles from Trenton, as an amateur historian and razor geek, it would be cool to have a Trenton Razor. In addition, as a razor evangelist, I'm always spotting newbies razors and brushes etc, so it would be cool to have something circle back.
Robert Manduca - Do you know if they actually manufactured razors there Robert or are they German ones with their name?
@@drmatt357 TRENTON RAZOR CO
Trademark later used by Boker
ca. 1880 - 1906
And it is also listed in the Boker trademarks as well.
not having to much luck picking up razors myself, bad pitting, badly worn or my last one blade split right in the middle about a 1/4 inch long, still sharpened it though. practice makes perfect, so they say.
Great to see you back, as usual fantastic, concise information, many thanks. Enjoy
Roy Hadley - Thank you. That’s how I roll Roy!😉
Really appreciate your vids very informative ,I have a GD I got from the stallion a little over a year ago and love it, only got a couple little knicks from it until the other day... after a long day and a couple crown and cokes is not a good time to put a sharp blade to your face, wasn’t pretty almost had to get stitches lol.. thx again doc.
Quick question
Gonna start learning to set a bevel, and this video made me decide to get a 4K or 5k stone.
Which would be a better stone?
The Naniwa 5k s2 Super Stone, or the Shapton Kuromaku 5k?
I just purchased the Naniwa s2 8k and 12k which will be arriving any day now.
They say the Kuromaku cracks in hot weather...and I’m about 45 minutes north of Sacramento, in hot weather.
Loving your videos. Learning a lot.
Raymond Moreno - I don’t think you can wrong with either of those 5Ks. If you have the Naniwa 8&12 then I’d stick with the same brand for the 5.
LOL, I live in the desert, was 110° yesterday and my Shaptons are still in one piece and have been for nearly 10 years.
DrMatt357 - Kewl. It was 104° today here in Roseville, CA. Thanks!
Oh...by the way. I don’t think I’ve seen anyone shave with a SR as assertively, smoothly, and confidently as you.
Just saying.
Keep up with the good videos. Super informative.
Hey so just watched your video and can I use any brand sharpening stone and also I don’t want to spend a ton of money on stones and also the grit does it have to be 4k,8k,12k?
Thanks a lot, very interesting. If you could only buy one straight razor, which one would it be?
Mmm Cccc - Thats easy, a Koraat!
@@drmatt357 thanks a lot
Another great one Dr Matt 👍🏼 Short and simple but with enough detail to get it right and keep you out of trouble 😉. You have always been there to help me along the way. The 8k Shapton I got from you is excellent. Would love to see this razor come my way. Fan of Trenton Razors and their Boker connection. Plus I have a wife that thinks I’m nuts every time I even look at razors on eBay. When she hears you or Keith or Lynn on RUclips I get the “not that again” ! So I would Love the chance to Stick It To Her ! 😆
Best reason I've heard so far!
Tell me about the Boker connection...
DrMatt357 Hey Dr Matt, thanks for responding. Well the “Trenton” trade mark was used by Boker since 1905. I have a history picture here too but I don’t know if I can send it to you on here. I’ll send it to the email you gave me awhile back. I love printing these things out and putting them up on the bathroom wall. Luckily we have two bathrooms and about 3 weeks ago (after hearing all the complaints about my shaving soaps etc) I claimed one bathroom as MINE ! LOL ! Oh man when I took all of the flowery pictures down and put up razor history and shaving pictures she flipped. I always say well I can start collecting guns instead .. and that usually ends it pretty quick 😂. Anyway I was looking all of this stuff up awhile back because I was actually looking at a Trenton razor but got outbid. I wound up going for a Colonial razor which has a cool history too and was great after I followed your wobble test and straightened out a high spot in the middle of the spine on one side. I didn’t tape it though and I think that is what I will do next bevel setting. Either that or your back bevel technique. Because I know it can be sharper and I am thinking it was too much metal on the stone (stiction) or bevel angle off. ...sorry for rambling. But this is a great hobby and I love learning from you guys. I’ll send that picture to your email.Thanks for considering me. I can hear my wife now “Did you buy another razor “ ?!! 😂
@@jbgearhead - WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!! Need your mailing address JB. You can email it to me. Also included whenever someone gets a razor from me is a years worth of re-sharpening. Congrats!
DrMatt357 WOW ! Thank you so much Dr Matt ! 🙏🏻 That is just Awesome ! You made my Friday work day here fantastic ! Looking forward to posting a picture and a big thanks in SRP FB site 👍🏼
DrMatt357 Wow ! What a great edge you put on that baby 👍🏼👍🏼
Good Video Dr. Matt. A quick "crash course" intro into getting started with straight razors. I hope you still have in archive those videos you did 5 years ago that get into more detail with technique. Glad to see you are well. Have a fun and safe Memorial Day weekend. Cheers!
Grilla Ray - Thanks Richard. Yes, all the videos are on my channel from way back!😉
Hey Dr Matt, great video, I have used my stones to varying degrees of success, but I feel inspired by your instruction, that’s what I will be doing this weekend.
Nice to see a new video from you. Hope you are doing well during this pandemic.
The DespeRAWdo - Doing fine. Ain’t afraid of The Rona!😉
HOLY SUPER SHARP EDGE BATMAN! Matt, I saw this this morning, went out and bought some of that same tape and some tomatoes. Followed your instructions as closely as possible and WOW! Sliced through that tomato on the 4K and 8K like a hot knife through butter! One final question: Should I strop it now or tomorrow just before I shave?
Great going Pauli! I was following the feed on FB. I love hearing the "GOTTA SET THE BEVEL" crowd chime in with having to get the 1K and grind the shit out of the blade. They're like clock work. 3,2,1... there they go! 😆 Bevel setting is over rated!
Strop after having it on the stone. If you have a prep strop or linen, go 20 and then 40 on leather. Just before the shave, go 10/20.
@@drmatt357 thanks for this also. I'm glad you clarified not using the 1K for something like this. I was tempted but I'm glad I jumped in with the group. But I've always been one to bow to experience....it's like personality, and personality goes a long way with me!
Hey good afternoon Doc i hope you’re having a day so far. My name is Ben and i’m a total newb it comes to straight razors. However i really dig your channel and I’m picking up on some useful things so thank you for that. You definitely seem like you know your stuff. An so i was wondering if you could make a video about the proper way to strop. Specifically on techniques like how to practice stropping and what things to practice to get the most out of your practice if that makes sense.
I got you Bruh! ruclips.net/video/1EYqYVsQgbI/видео.htmlsi=0RW_JLtvOnpISltV
@@drmatt357 Hell yeah that’s right on time! Thanks man.
I have a question hopefully you will respond.
I've bought a couple Shapton stones; 2K 5K 8K 12K and also an Atoma Diamond Plate 1200 grit because otherwise i'd leave marks in my finishing stones when lapping.
But here is my question, would you recommend me to buy another diamond plate that is rougher, like is a 400 and a 1200 good to have or would i need to go lower in grit for the rougher whet stones?
And also at which whet stone grit would you stop using the 1200 diamond plate, maybe stop using the 1200 plate at a 5K whet stone and then go lower in grit?
Atoma sells 140, 400, 600, 1200 diamond plates and like i just said i've already ordered the 1200 one, would you recommend a second plate, if so which one.
Thanks in advance.
The 1200 should be fine for not only lapping ALL of your stones including your finish stones (I use my 400 on my finish stones) but you can use it as a bevel setter and even skip the 2K and go straight to the 5... that's what I do.
@@drmatt357 Thanks alot for the information i really appreciate it. And thanks for making the useful video's they are great!
@@BerserkeR_031 - Yes they are!😉
The only stone I have is the Naniwa SS12K and it, along with your instruction, have been instrumental in keeping my only razor tip-top. It came to me professionally honed so I didn't have worry about the lower grit stones. I just had to worry about keeping the edge finely polished which I can do with the 12K and a good strop. Straight razor shaving, to me, necessitates the need to be able to hone your razor. As you say, it's not that hard and the satisfaction I get being able to do that myself is its own reward. I get it.
grishfish - Well said. Thanks for tuning in. 😁
Hi DrMatt, thank you for this great video. One question, do I have to put the tape back on the razor each time before I can hone it on the leather to prepare it for the next shave? Greetings from Germany
@@vassiliostsokis9854 - Guten Tag Mate! No need to put tape on when stropping on leather, linen or any other material regardless if you used it while sharpening on the stones.
@@drmatt357 Thank you for the prompt reply :-)
Great video series you got going there.
I purchased a W. H. Morley about 2 weeks ago.
I have not used it yet, as I wanted to make sure it had a good edge.
Which brings me to where I am now. I just ordered a Gold Dollar SR from Amazon. And then I ordered an 8k and 12k Naniwa stones.
Gonna practice on the Gold Dollar with that.
My W H Morley was sharpened on tape (from what the seller told me), so I am on the wall now.
Do I continue sharpening with tape, or do I purchase a decent 4K stone, and start a new bevel?
Great videos. Much has been learned, and I am still learning.
Don’t know if the giveaway razor is gone, but it’d sure be nice to have a good, sharpened, razor on-hand to see what one is supposed to look and feel like.
Once again, great videos!
Raymond Moreno - stick with the tape. Wait until you can repeatedly put a decent edge on different razors until trying to attempt structural corrections.
DrMatt357 - Thanks. I’ve ground down and corrected the stabilizer on the Gold Dollar, like on your other video. (I immediately noticed it got in the way when sharpening the heel of the blade). Perfect now.
The Gold Dollar is consistently popping held hairs after honing and stropping.
I’ve decided to continue sharpening the WH Morley with tape, and that bad boy is also popping hairs ridiculously well.
Dear Sir-Is the purpose of the tape to preserve the edge of the spine? One of my favorite razors has a pronounced flat and has been professionally honed several times. Thanx for any details concerning this-John in Texas
The purpose of the tape in this video is to make it easier to form the apex or bevel set. Some guys use tape for cosmetic purpose but I usually don't but for beginners, it's usually easy with tape.
"Kill the edge" I love it. Think I'll have a t shirt made.
Great video. I've never used a straight razer before and this was a great little video. I have used double-edged safety razers but I would like to move into this. Now to go look at your other videos and see if you recommend brands. Since I never win anything lol.
Hi
Love your videos! Never tried a straight razor before but I would love to give straight razor shaving a go!
Nice video, it was helpful. I have a question! I shave every day with a straight razor. I have about 13 old style straight razors and they all pull a little bit on the whiskers. I have the disposable blade straight razors too that I use Feather blades in (the double edge type. You break them in half). The Feather blade shaves effortlessly, no pull on the whispers. Let's say, that's a 10/10 comfortable shave. What would you rate a regular straight razor shave as? Like a 8/10? You can hear a regular straight razor cutting hair, but not so with a Feather blade straight razor. I'm just wondering if I have never used a truly perfectly honed straight razor. I do have tough facial hair like a caveman. Thanks again for your videos.
A straight razor will not feel like a shavette. It won’t approach that effortless glide you mention but they shouldn’t tug and most people think they’re more comfortable. When they’re hyper sharp like the Feather, they can remove a layer of skin.
Perfect Matt! This info is great because its simple and proven from someone with experience. I needed honing for dummies! Which is the better stone for finishing ILR or the one used in the vid? Just after best results. Thanks again! (I only have 1 straight 😬)
Steve
Thanks Steve. They're both good finishers. I think the ILR is a bit cheaper. If you get the 2X6 stone as in my video, use code DRMATT2X6 for a $5 discount.
Will these three stones work for a completely dull new razor or do you reccomend a 400/1200 first as shown on your bevel set video?
It should work for a dull razor. If there are chips or other gouges, you may need a 1K but if you’re just starting out, I would not recommend it because if you do too much, which would be easy on a 1K or lower grit, you’d ruin the razor.
Hell yeah \m/ I haven’t shaved in years, but I still watch these great videos.
I'd really enjoy taking this razor even further than 12k synthetic on my ~4.5-5 hard Shouhonyama Nashiji using a progression of the finer of the Asano Tomas [for instance Mejiro+ Koma + even a Tomo Nakayama] to a legendary cloudy bevel perhaps....and THEN check out how it will shave.....
Angelos Baikos - Ti Kaneis Angelos! Yes, that would be a wicked sharp edge... but probably a bit of an advanced stone progression for a guy just starting out. 😉
So the electrical tape isn't to protect the spine from wear, it's to change the angle relative to the stone?
It can be both. In this video I recommend it to make it easier to hit the edge (which is essentially increasing the angle). I would say most guys who use it tho do it for cosmetic reasons. Ideally, you wouldn't want to use it as it was designed to be sharpened without tape. This video clip is the best explanation I've heard: ruclips.net/video/WECHanHc8Ko/видео.htmlm22s
Great video, as always. Do you use tape for regular touchups?
Depends if you did it the first time. If yes, then you have to use it for touchups.
I agree there is a great feeling from taking steel to stone and coming up with a shaving sharp edge! Don't need the razor I have enough! give it to someone that will enjoy it!
Dr Matt
Howdy!
I am new to your channel and I dig your videos on the straight razors. I just bought my first straight razor at the age of 70 and had a question for you. Is putting the 3M tape needed every time I sharpen it or is it just for the first time only? Because I see you sharpening razors without the tape. Just curious. I like how you get into explaining things.
Thanks
Craig
Most of the time I do not use tape but remember this is for beginners and the tape will make it easier to form an apex and get a shaving edge from the get go.
Thanks for the video Dr.Matt. I've been looking at getting into honing my own razors and seeing what you do for a basic hone job is awesome. Hopefully I'll have the coin this summer to start entering another rabbit hole.
Would a loupe be better than a magnifying glass?
Same difference... they're usually in the 20-30X range so that's fine. I don't have a loupe with a light and with my old eyes, I need it as bright as I can get it.
Thanks Dr Matt. Just honed my first straight razor, a 1930s hollow ground The Flic. English Diamond Steel. £12 off eBay. Honed if using your technique on Naniwa 3K, 8K and 12K then 40 passes on a leather strop. First shave like a knife through butter! My only query is that it’s REALLY loud! Is this normal or am I holding it wrongly?
Great job Mark! Full hollow grinds can make a lot of noise. Just make sure you keep the spine close to your face. Not more than 1/4” away. That’s about 6mm for you metric blokes. 😏
@@drmatt357 don’t worry, I use the same units as the colonies🇬🇧. 😳 thanks for the advice, the noise really put me off initially. Looking forward to seeing more of your videos. Found a couple of really old wedge razors (18th and early 19th century) but need a lot of cleaning and I don’t think my honing skills are up to the challenge yet. Keep up the good work
Just to let you know that the strop URL does not work, was watching this vid because I thought about buying myself a brand new Dovo and was looking for tips on how to sharpen it when/if I get one, thanks for the vid
Yeah, I left it there hoping they would restock but no luck so far.
Very helpful video! I have a vintage razor I’ve been trying to get a good shave with. Not successfully done yet, but I won’t give up. Would be great to have a razor that you honed. To see what a truly sharp blade should feel like. Congrats to the blessed person who gets this razor. Thank you for this opportunity Dr. Matt. Take care all.
Very nice video thank you for the info
Just purchased my first stone. 12k naniwa
Can I use any technique to sharpening?
Are there any best ways to do it?
Yes, the best way to do it is EXACTLY like I do it. My way or the highway!😆
Hello Dr. Matt I just ordered the strop you talked about in this video. Nice looking razor how different is the shave compared to a near wedge?
A near wedge is all I own and use as of now never used a full hollow ground razor. Keep posting the great videos. Thanks Dr Matt.
Nice job. These videos are quite helpful for someone like me who's looking to get into honing.
Good video Dr. Matt. Question: would you be able to kill the edge, and then bring it back on only an 8K Stone? Or is something of lower grit required?
william bingham - Yes, absolutely! Watch my latest video series, Part 2 and you’ll see me do it.
Thanks for this video,i m new in this and i manage to fix edge with a small coticule stone.if i put the tape the first time i must put always a tape or doesn t matter?i buy a cheap razor for 25euro from internet,the metal of course isnt like the 150euros razors.does the metals can affect the sharpening or you can have the same cut in two different qualitys razors?
Yes, if you use tape to start, you will need to always use it on the razor. Yes, the metal can make a difference in the edge. Some metal is so cheap, it will never take an edge. If you would like to email me a picture of the razor, I should be able to tell if it can get sharp enough to shave. drmatt1911@gmail.com
@@drmatt357 thanks for you answer,i will send some photos to email!!!
Hi Doc, I am a bit confused (ok, very confused) about bevel setting. I have bought some blunt old razors from ebay, primarily to practice with and to learn some technique, but I am hopeful that I might get to shave with one of them. So, if I follow the process in this video, does it assume that the bevel has already been set, or are you setting the bevel during this process? I watched a video of another guy, demonstrating how to set a bevel, and his process is very similar to yours except that he is using a 1000 grit stone. How will I know if I need to set a bevel?
Those are good questions Stuart and I will answer them but first let me ask you a question. From your understanding, what is or define “setting a bevel” and how do you know when you get there?
@@drmatt357 Well, in all honesty, my understanding is very vague, but I sort of understood that it's the first step to sharpening a razor (or sometimes it is!) So in my head, it's about getting the apex on the blade to have the correct geometry, before you really start to hone it to the correct sharpness. The problem that I seem to have is that when I go through all the steps and the razor still isn't sharp enough, I don't know which step I didn't get right - or maybe it's all of them!!
I have a video called the 5 things you must know about bevel setting, it’s pretty good. Are you using a piece of tape as I show here and what brand stones are you using? If the edge is touching down on the stone the entire length and it cuts the tomato skin at a mid grit level, you’re good.
@@drmatt357 thanks for taking the time to reply to my questions. I am using ordinary insulating tape, but have ordered the Scotch 88. I've been using an assortment of stones - not terrible ones, there's a Norton in there, but I've ordered a really nice set of Shaptons, and I will redo my razor on those when they arrive. On the plus side, I did manage about half a shave with the razor yesterday - it wasn't very comfortable and I finished off with a DE, but half a shave is better than nothing right? It means my razor got pretty close to being shave ready, doesn't it?
Doc on the Norton 4/8K stone is it a splash and go or does it need soaked in water for a bit? My Shapton 5K I’ve got now doesn’t cut as good as the one I had a few years back.
The Norton, the 4K side requires a soak for a minute or 2. The 8K side is splash and go. If you have the Shapton 5, don't replace it with the Norton. The Norton 4K tends to dish quite a bit. I haven't heard that the Shaptons have changed their formula but I guess it's possible. Make sure it's flat tho... that can make it not want to behave properly.
Thanks Doc I’ll stick with my Shapton 5K it may just be me knocking off some rust, but thanks for your help!!!!
I saw you stropping with the tape on when you finished honing (convenience) But is it okay to strop without the tape on if you honed with tape on? I don't think that will roll the edge right..
No, won't roll the edge. I got distracted talking and didn't remove the tape. Don't need to leave it on.
I love this man so much this is awesome you are so easy to listen to and follow and you offer real information I absolutely love it keep doing these I was literally about to spend 335$ on a straight razor because mine had a frown in it I guess you could call it a frowning razor
I’d send you a picture if I could lol
@@malachicousinSA200 - You can send a pic any time. drmatt1911@gmail.com
What grits are those? Is that all you need for old razors too? 4k, 8k and 12k? And a leather strop too I guess? Are all of those stones really necessary for an amateur? Or is one enough?
Yes, need those stones minimum. Razors and knives are a different ballgame. A knife you could use just one if you had to.
@@drmatt357 Okay! I am on a budget however. Can I get 4k If I only could buy one? I only care that it cuts the hair smoothly.. I don't care about micro serrations or how you call it. I need something practical only. Thanks for your reply.
@@Wedkog - You need a minimum 8K to shave with so I'd go with that.
@@drmatt357 wow, thanks for such a good answer! I will go with that. I guess If it does not have an effect I really need to use some coarser grits before.