i truly love shaving with the straight razor. I have about 10 of them. I hone them and strop them. It took some time for me to get the skills to manage the maintenance of the straight, but that has made the experience all the better. I look forward every morning to shave with my straight. I did the DE razors and still have them. I haven't gone back to them but always have the option. I make take one when I travel as straights don't travel well with security etc. I fully understand not wanting the striaghts, its not for everyone and doesn't give a metric to wet shaving acumen. I continue to cruze ebay for vintage razors at a good deal. All of the ones I have purchased have honed well and performed as expected.
Cool man I'm looking into this ,I love using a safety razor,just love the feel and sound when shaving, I can't describe it but it's so much better than using modern razors love the sound aswell.
I've been shaving with a straight for about 15 years now and I would not recommend straight shaving for everyone. Just about anybody *can* learn to shave with a straight but unless it's something that really appeals to you (and you know if it does) you won't be successful. You need the drive and desire to keep going through the initial bad times. It's going to take at least 3 months and probably closer to a year before you can get shaves as good as a DE (which takes days or at most weeks to begin getting good shaves). I personally found it took over a year before I could exceed the quality of shave I get from a DE using a straight and although I hear people claiming to have done it significantly faster I have my doubts about such claims. Having said that, nothing can compare with the quality of shave it's possible to get from a straight razor if you have sufficiently good technique and the only limitation is your own skill. I shave with a DE occasionally when I'm rushed or just fancy a change but I would never go back entirely. I encourage anybody who really wants to learn to shave with a straight to go ahead and do so; but if you're not really sure then leave it alone. As far as cost is concerned - it certainly can be expensive but it doesn't necessarily need to be, you'd be surprised the results you can get with a barbers hone and a leather belt and you could get both for a total cost about the same as a pack of Fusion cartridges. The razor itself is not something to skimp on but if you're lucky and patient you may manage to pick up a Wapienica or vintage razor surprisingly cheaply.
I agree with everything you say, I believe my enthusiasm has fallen off to the point that some B/S/T list will soon have a strop, blade and fine set of stones available. Its not that I don't think I will ever get it, just that for old tech, it has a ton of upkeep and in the end, I can do my face faster sitting in the tub with my old Gillette than I ever could with a blade with its limitations.
I have been using a straight razor for a little over a year. I shave my face and head with one. I started out just shaving my face for a few months before shaving my head. If you do choose to start using a straight, my advise is to start with your face and get use to using it. After you have shaving your face done, shaving your head is not so scary.
Yeah, agreed. Straight shaving isn't an instant gratification endeaver when first learning. Someone has to want to do it and It takes time to learn. Couple of months at least.
I agree completely with the points in this video. If, for whatever reason, I couldn't shave with DE/SE/injector razors, I would sooner pick up cartridge razors than I would pick up a straight razor. Shaving isn't a way of life for me lol. I like shaving with a DE, and that's enough for me. I don't want to add all this extra effort into shaving when it's already something I see as a chore.
I wouldn't give up because your judgement on your first few shaves they say it takes.100 shaves but I think it's worth it the awkwardness goes away quick. I'd sent you a blade. I can shave with a straight quicker then a de.
I learned how to shave with a safety razor, but I was buying a lot of razors blades. Which at the time they were not easy to find. Shaving with a straight razor is an investment at first, but in the long run it really saves you money. I paid 12 for a used straight razor on eBay and paid $25 to get it restored and honed. My large strop I got it for another $25. If you can learn to stop well you don’t have to get your razor honed for maybe a year and a half. I have not had my razor hone for about 3 years and it only cost $12 to $15. It may not be for everyone, but definitely not a big upkeep, and can be less expensive.
I agree with everything you said! I have to admit that I am scared of cutting a major artery in my neck!! Agh! Thanks Clean Shaver for everything you are doing to bring awesome, positive messages to RUclips. - Ginger Adventurez
I enjoyed your video, Scott. I just came to this realization a week ago and it's fine with me. What I found especially relevant was the maintenance part. I personally know for sure that as dedicated of a wetshaver I am, I'll never have the dedication to hone or strop my straight razor. If I ever do attempt any razor similar to a straight, it will be a shavette or a Feather Artist Club razor. I'm also kind of sick of the straight razors equalling masculinity mentality. Thanks again, this video made very valid points and was a breath of fresh air!
I enjoyed your video Scott. Some of your points are valid and some are not. The cost factor is relative and depends of course what you buy. You can find a nice straight on EBay for $30 and have it honed for $20. You're now 50 into it. You'll need a strop which could vary in price, but are available in the 30 range. You can go for months if you alternate between straights and DE's or just use a straight a couple days a week. I think the biggest concern would be your children, which to me would be a concern as well. The easy fix would be to store your straight somewhere not accessible. You have steak knives and other things that I'm sure are safeguarded and secure. You can do the same. The fact is, what may be perfect for me may not be perfect for you and vice versa. May I suggest trying to embrace both. Just because someone like Anthony or myself have turned to straight shaving exclusively, doesn't mean that it's best for everyone. Sometimes having variety is best and perhaps you should look at adding a straight or two to your collection. I thoroughly enjoy straight shaving, but it does take a bit more time, effort, concentration and commitment. That being said, I couldn't imagine not using a straight razor. I'm having a blast and hope you give it a go (it takes time and should be a 60 day commitment). When I get back from this trip, I'm gonna send out a couple razors I recently purchased for honing. I'd be happy to send you a razor to try. You'll find them to be much more forgiving than a Shavette. Good luck!
Nicely said Peter Charkalis and Scott, once you shave even just your cheeks with a straight you will find that nothing shaves as well or as easily to get a nice shave. Yes I did say easily. There is less irritation, less or no ingrown hairs for me. And the challenge is still there but fun and exciting to do. Yes it takes a learning curve, but you are more than capable. You could keep the straight in a little cash lock box you get at OfficeMax or Staples with a lock. I will have a razor for you, if willing to commit to learning and having some fun. You will not regret it the time you commit. Hope this helps you.
Peter Charkalis Great response! This is the kind of discussion I was talking about. I'm very willing to give it a shot, and appreciate your generous offer. I may have to take you up on it. :-) Like you said, though, you have to find what works for you. If I try it and I enjoy it, I'll gladly eat a little crow. Up to this point, though, I don't feel like I've missed out on a lot (probably just because I don't know what I'm missing). Ignorance is bliss, right? Thanks for watching and contributing to the discussion!
I started head shaving with my shavette a few years ago and then moved to my straight razor I can tell you that yeah the shavette can be challenging when it come to head shaving but the straight razor is forgiving.
Giorgio Corrado That's what I've been told, but I'm still unsure. I think that, if I ever did pick up a straight, I'd probably do like Kickingandshaving with Kojak does and just use a DE on the noggin, but shave the face with a straight. Thanks for watching!
The Clean Shaver You will never know until you try it at least once. So come on over and shave straight I am sure Billy T still has a few Gold Dollars or Titan hanging around with your name on it. ;-)
I was going to ask for my first straight razor for my birthday but I'm reconsidering. The upkeep and cost for honing every few months puts me off. A 100 pack of double edge blades will last me 1-2 years. But who knows, I might end up eating my words if I do get a straight razor in the future haha
+ElementalHeroJoe I've started using one from time to time now, and I must say that I do enjoy using it, but I'd never be strictly a straight shaver. It all depends on what you get out of it. If you end up buying a straight, give it an honest try, but it doesn't work out, you can usually resell it for close to what you paid. If it ends up being an enjoyable experience for you, then keep doing it. This hobby is about ENJOYMENT.
Ive been TWS for about 5 years and the VERY 1st item I bought was the CLASSIC SAMURAI SHAVETTE. Using the on and off for a few years really made the transition easy to traditional Straights. And I’ve been at it for about eight months now, I hone my own Razors, and I practiced at first with a few gold dollars. But they can be wonky , they are actually known for that. But once you get a good edge on it it’s just like any other straight razor. Out of the box the heel and the tow most likely need adjustments. Mostly the heel, and I didn’t want to use a Dremel and mess it up so I got Dr. Matt to do that for me then I would do the sharpening. It really worked out great no mistakes! I did about six Razors so far and just did a Theirs-Issard Sheep & Wolf 🐑 🐺 The stones I have are all made by NANIWA My progression is 1k 3K 8k 12k
You raise many valid points, but also many personally biased ones which I believe you understood when you made the video - that it's what you think personally. Just for kicks I'll throw in my own thoughts. I did raise a brow when you mentioned that a properly honed straight razor can go 3-6 months before needing to be honed again. Yet however in the very next sentence say that you don't want to spend additional time on honing, stropping and the like. It is fully feasible to achieve an edge that will last several hundred shaves if we're talking honing services from a professional, and you have 10-15 bucks to spend on a firehose strop to warm up the razor prior to use and clean it afterwards then a user with enough skill can clock over 1000 very comfortable shaves from a single straight razor before it needs about 45-60 minutes on the hones and strops to get back in shape. I'm guessing that you would spend more time exchanging blades and the like than the time you need to spend honing up a dulled straight razor. It's expensive tools that you use, naturally, but they also last you a few lifetimes which can't be said for any of the new replace and toss methods.
Great thoughts. I actually do shave every now and then with a straight razor, and I'm dozens of shaves into a hone. I've been maintaining the edge with some Crox paste and a good strop. I don't know if I'll ever get into honing, though.
+MishaTal1 I'm actually coming around on it too. I don't by any means foresee a day when I'll be strictly a straight shaver (just too time consuming and risky on my head), but I now appreciate and enjoy a straight shave every now and then when I have time. Thanks for watching and commenting!
I love shaving with a straight, and everything that it involves. However, if someone were to ask me if they should use a straight razor, my answer would be; do you want to? If you do, then do it. If not,....don't
Great video , I think the whole maintenance thing is what has me being a little hesitant. I want one but do I need one ? I do have one but its more of a keepsake because it was my grandfathers. I have a shavette and a feather ac as non folding which I love and I am thinking I'm probably good with those. If I ever actually want to venture into straights I think I may just get my grandfathers revamped .
Chris Coyle Even if you don't shave with it that much, I think it would be worth having your grandfather's razor at least restored or cleaned up. Thanks for watching!
stratocaster1986able I think the thing that scares me the most is that a razor (at least in my house) is WAY sharper than any of my knives. I'm probably making a bigger deal out of it than necessary, but I also have a special-needs son whose comprehension of danger is not the best. Call me overly cautious.
Yo! Completely agree! For me,personally,I don't see the need as my DE razors give me the BBS I've always wanted,but never really got with cartridges. And, by the way, you NEVER have enuff shaving gear! :-))) I drive my wife abs bananas every time we go into a store where bowls are sold. I see one I like, pick it up, start making the "mixing up lather" movements and she knows.....there he goes....again! Really enjoyed the video, thx much!
I shaved with a straight razor for awhile, but like you I only hit my face up. A DE got my dome. Now I'm DE only because the straights are too much trouble. I'll say this: because I have a background with knives I didn't have much of a learning curve for the straights. Far and away I've butchered myself worse with a DE...
Hello! My name is Nicole and I'm trying to find something for my fiance. He currently has a set and he's just having issues with bumps afterwards or shave burn, he'll break skin. I see so many videos and I want to find him something that works for him but obviously being somewhat price conscious. I want to do this all before Valentine's Day of course, but I'm trying to do some research and sifting through all of this is confusing. I watched your video on brushes and that helped me a ton but I still need help! If you can offer any help, I'd so appreciate it, thank you!!
Scott, I enjoyed the video. I have similar feeling as you do on the subject, but I know that can change easily. Do you or anyone else have any experience with the heavier straights with disposable blades like the feather artist as an alternative. I'm tempted to try that option
Dan Mastronardi I tried one that my brother let me try out and it was a good shave. It was my first time using anything even close to a straight, though, so I stuck to only shaving my cheeks with it. Good feel to them, though. Thanks for watching!
Just like you said, there's soooooo many types of shaving implements out there to choose from./ I love it btw.. Also your right about stropping and honing.... Luckily I have a knife sharpening business that I've been operating for years. Its called Mirrored Edges...Even though Razor sharpening is totally 100% different than knife sharpening and stropping as well. I say that to say this, I'm fortunate to already have the sharpening materials on hand so that's to my advantage. I just began wet shaving in June and started straight razor shaving in July into August. I can now produce the type shave with my straight that I never thought id be able to produce. So I'm just saying if you had the straight razors, you'd pick it up and it would become second nature like driving a car. I was just wondering if you ever got a straight sent to you yet ? ok bro take care.. Love watching ur channel.//. reciprocate where possible, thanks.Cap'n Hunter..
+Hunter Green Thanks, sir! I have been trying to get more into straights. I now own one (actually two, but the other isn't able to hold a good edge). They're a different animal, but I'm borrowing a few to get some practice and a feel for what I like.
+The Clean Shaver I never thought that I would be able to do what I now am capable of, when it comes to shaving with a straight razor. Luckily, I had encouragement and all kinds of advice from various friends in the wet shaving community which I'm sure you do as well. I now shave and swap up between my double edges and straight razors. It's almost like an equal rotation LOL. There for a while it was completely straight razor shaving and after I got it down, where it was like automatic motor control, if you know what I mean, then I began rotating between them all once again. The first day that I had a better shave with a straight razor than I have ever had with a double edge, was the day that won me over. Before that day, I never thought it was possible. Best of success to you bro. Let me know if I can help in anyway and if I cannot answer your questions, I know several guys that can. Have a great weekend.
Well u was talking about your collection well ever since I started watching your videos I been busy collecting, but my problem is I got into watching hot towel shaving at barbershops and it’s making me want to be a straight razor shaver but it’s a lot easier to me shaving somebody’s else head than it is shaving your own because they want you to pull the skin tight well I get that but my fingers slide every time I pull my skin back! Hope to hear back from u
been trying to learn the shavette for a few weeks now. I thought if I practiced my technique I'd get the closest shave possible. But it's not much closer than my merkur progress, and not close at all around my lips and chin (above the jawline)
I like this video, even though I use a few straights plus doubled edge razors, for me I enjoy the extra time. Favourite saying in this hobby - Your Mileage May Vary. lol. still a great video. Thank You and I've subscribed to you
+motosheep That's a valid point. Since this video, I've picked up a couple of straights. It hasn't been an issue yet, but I do my best to keep my blades well out of reach.
The Clean Shaver why dont you just buy a toolbox or some container you can lock to store a cut throat in and keep the key on you? i dont think your kids will be able to break a lock
I did consider straight shaving, but like yourself it's the stropping, honing etc that stopped me. The other issue is a danger one. At times my arm jerks and twitches, so if I was using a straight I'd almost certainly cut myself. So I'm a permanent DE guy.
Shaving with a straight Razor is more of a Hobby. Guys take the joy in maintaining and preparing for a shave with one. If you just want to shave, it's not for you.
I shaved with straight razors in the past but the fact of the matter is.... it's a lot more time consuming and it's a lot easier to cut yourself...and you will cut yourself from time to time, I don't care what anyone else says. DE razors are state of the art, convenient, safer and less of a hassle with a way smaller learning curve.
The maintenance is cheap or even the complete restoration of old cabbage cutters here are the financial costs that it cost me a synthetic stone grit 800,1000 21 euros Japanese stone synthetic grit 3000, 8000 24 euros and a natural stone of Trio Welsh 12 000, 15000 grit 35 euros and a strop Herold Solingen leather of Russian 50, green PUMA pastes 5 euros and a stop of my manufacture, when restarting I check the blades under a microscope ..... all my Couter 135 euros and since I buy razors between 12 and 25 euros on Ebay I have 5 for the moment and the maintenance takes me less than a minute And if it's just for an interview it costs less, I do the complete restoration Cordially from France
I switched to straights and its about the same price after the initial investment as DE even if you don't hone it yourself it cost 20$ and if you take car l care of your blade it can last a year. If you do hone its even cheaper. I think it's a better relaxing shave too. If your buying all these soaps and brushes to get a good shave why skimp on that? The experience is why I switched.. maybe that's why I'm confused.
Thanks for your comments! I actually do occasionally shave with a straight now. I own two. After this video, some friends sent me a razor and it changed my mind.
Typically, guy’s don’t do head shaves with a SR. It’s dangerous! You need to be able to see the blade on a straight razor. A properly honed SR is NOT for flailing around the back of your head with.
+Jonahshaw18 The shavette? They're definitely a cheap intro to straight razors, but they're not the same. I do shave with straights now and enjoy them, but mostly stick to DE's.
I don't use a straight razor either, for a lot of the same reasons that you mention. I'll add one more. There is a lot of phony macho bravado attached to it.
You forgot reason number 4 or 5: you will have to grow a goatee this way it will take less to shave :) Just kidding! I own a Feather AC and is giving me some comfortable shaves but, like you said, it's tricky to maneuver it around the face but I'm sure you have to give it some time.
shayo242 SWMBO gives a big fat "NOOOOOPE" to the goatee thing. A well-trimmed chin beard is one thing, but she hates it when I have a mustache, so if I want to use a straight, I'll have to shave the lip. Thanks for watching!
The hardest area to shave with a straight is under the nose i feel like the correct way to shave is to be very step on the angel. lyn's video on shaving with them was 100 percent pointless he only shaved the easy areas of the face.
Doesnt matter if you prefer not to shave with a straight razor, the important thing is that you know how to do it... every man should learn how to sharpen a knife, be proficient with a firearm, start a fire, and shave with a straight edge.. whether or not they do these things all the time is up to them.. But at least they know how.
You know your good wife will quote you and now she will have video footage to prove you said it. Too much of a good thing, not possible! And kids, you've gotta love em, you cant sendem back after all and they are the best surprises in your life and a good women said yes & married you! YudaMan!
drop a straight razor in the sink it can be catastrophic i have used straight razors in the past but now i like to use my parker sr1 shavette much less bother
John James I think I agree with you. I've used a straight now, and I'm not convinced it's for me. If I want the experience, I'll just use a shavette. But I vastly prefer the DE experience.
I know you will never shave your head with a SR, but you should see the guy doing it that on another video, looks enough like you to be your brother.........
Actually, I have. Several times. "Overcoming My Fear of Straight Razors": ruclips.net/video/K9sqYtvKvrM/видео.html "How to Shave My Head With a Straight Razor:" ruclips.net/video/rWtEYk-kckU/видео.html
I took to DE shaving pretty easily, but that was with a mildly agressive razor. Maybe a straight razor is in my future. I don't know. You having kids is probably reason enough not to have a straight razor.
I have. I go back and forth with the beard quite a bit. I don't think I'll ever have a full-length man mane, but my wife certainly likes that I can rock either look.
Like you, I've considered a straight a number of times. But, the upkeep has kept me away.
Todd Bryant Agree 100%. Thanks for watching!
it's really not bad honing is 20$ blade last a year if you take care of it right and stripping takes 2 minutes.
i truly love shaving with the straight razor. I have about 10 of them. I hone them and strop them. It took some time for me to get the skills to manage the maintenance of the straight, but that has made the experience all the better. I look forward every morning to shave with my straight. I did the DE razors and still have them. I haven't gone back to them but always have the option. I make take one when I travel as straights don't travel well with security etc. I fully understand not wanting the striaghts, its not for everyone and doesn't give a metric to wet shaving acumen. I continue to cruze ebay for vintage razors at a good deal. All of the ones I have purchased have honed well and performed as expected.
Cool man I'm looking into this ,I love using a safety razor,just love the feel and sound when shaving, I can't describe it but it's so much better than using modern razors love the sound aswell.
I've been shaving with a straight for about 15 years now and I would not recommend straight shaving for everyone. Just about anybody *can* learn to shave with a straight but unless it's something that really appeals to you (and you know if it does) you won't be successful. You need the drive and desire to keep going through the initial bad times.
It's going to take at least 3 months and probably closer to a year before you can get shaves as good as a DE (which takes days or at most weeks to begin getting good shaves). I personally found it took over a year before I could exceed the quality of shave I get from a DE using a straight and although I hear people claiming to have done it significantly faster I have my doubts about such claims.
Having said that, nothing can compare with the quality of shave it's possible to get from a straight razor if you have sufficiently good technique and the only limitation is your own skill. I shave with a DE occasionally when I'm rushed or just fancy a change but I would never go back entirely.
I encourage anybody who really wants to learn to shave with a straight to go ahead and do so; but if you're not really sure then leave it alone.
As far as cost is concerned - it certainly can be expensive but it doesn't necessarily need to be, you'd be surprised the results you can get with a barbers hone and a leather belt and you could get both for a total cost about the same as a pack of Fusion cartridges. The razor itself is not something to skimp on but if you're lucky and patient you may manage to pick up a Wapienica or vintage razor surprisingly cheaply.
I agree with everything you say, I believe my enthusiasm has fallen off to the point that some B/S/T list will soon have a strop, blade and fine set of stones available. Its not that I don't think I will ever get it, just that for old tech, it has a ton of upkeep and in the end, I can do my face faster sitting in the tub with my old Gillette than I ever could with a blade with its limitations.
I have been using a straight razor for a little over a year. I shave my face and head with one. I started out just shaving my face for a few months before shaving my head. If you do choose to start using a straight, my advise is to start with your face and get use to using it. After you have shaving your face done, shaving your head is not so scary.
Yeah, agreed. Straight shaving isn't an instant gratification endeaver when first learning. Someone has to want to do it and It takes time to learn. Couple of months at least.
I agree completely with the points in this video. If, for whatever reason, I couldn't shave with DE/SE/injector razors, I would sooner pick up cartridge razors than I would pick up a straight razor. Shaving isn't a way of life for me lol. I like shaving with a DE, and that's enough for me. I don't want to add all this extra effort into shaving when it's already something I see as a chore.
I wouldn't give up because your judgement on your first few shaves they say it takes.100 shaves but I think it's worth it the awkwardness goes away quick. I'd sent you a blade. I can shave with a straight quicker then a de.
I learned how to shave with a safety razor, but I was buying a lot of razors blades. Which at the time they were not easy to find. Shaving with a straight razor is an investment at first, but in the long run it really saves you money. I paid 12 for a used straight razor on eBay and paid $25 to get it restored and honed. My large strop I got it for another $25. If you can learn to stop well you don’t have to get your razor honed for maybe a year and a half. I have not had my razor hone for about 3 years and it only cost $12 to $15. It may not be for everyone, but definitely not a big upkeep, and can be less expensive.
Great points!
I agree with you 100%, I have used straights and feel pretty proficient with then, but I prefer DEs. It's all about preference.
I agree with everything you said! I have to admit that I am scared of cutting a major artery in my neck!! Agh!
Thanks Clean Shaver for everything you are doing to bring awesome, positive messages to RUclips.
- Ginger Adventurez
I enjoyed your video, Scott. I just came to this realization a week ago and it's fine with me. What I found especially relevant was the maintenance part. I personally know for sure that as dedicated of a wetshaver I am, I'll never have the dedication to hone or strop my straight razor. If I ever do attempt any razor similar to a straight, it will be a shavette or a Feather Artist Club razor. I'm also kind of sick of the straight razors equalling masculinity mentality. Thanks again, this video made very valid points and was a breath of fresh air!
endingman Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching!
I enjoyed your video Scott. Some of your points are valid and some are not. The cost factor is relative and depends of course what you buy. You can find a nice straight on EBay for $30 and have it honed for $20. You're now 50 into it. You'll need a strop which could vary in price, but are available in the 30 range. You can go for months if you alternate between straights and DE's or just use a straight a couple days a week. I think the biggest concern would be your children, which to me would be a concern as well. The easy fix would be to store your straight somewhere not accessible. You have steak knives and other things that I'm sure are safeguarded and secure. You can do the same. The fact is, what may be perfect for me may not be perfect for you and vice versa. May I suggest trying to embrace both. Just because someone like Anthony or myself have turned to straight shaving exclusively, doesn't mean that it's best for everyone. Sometimes having variety is best and perhaps you should look at adding a straight or two to your collection. I thoroughly enjoy straight shaving, but it does take a bit more time, effort, concentration and commitment. That being said, I couldn't imagine not using a straight razor. I'm having a blast and hope you give it a go (it takes time and should be a 60 day commitment). When I get back from this trip, I'm gonna send out a couple razors I recently purchased for honing. I'd be happy to send you a razor to try. You'll find them to be much more forgiving than a Shavette. Good luck!
Nicely said Peter Charkalis and Scott, once you shave even just your cheeks with a straight you will find that nothing shaves as well or as easily to get a nice shave. Yes I did say easily. There is less irritation, less or no ingrown hairs for me. And the challenge is still there but fun and exciting to do. Yes it takes a learning curve, but you are more than capable. You could keep the straight in a little cash lock box you get at OfficeMax or Staples with a lock. I will have a razor for you, if willing to commit to learning and having some fun. You will not regret it the time you commit. Hope this helps you.
Bob Randolph The lock box is a good idea. Thank you for the suggestion! :-)
Peter Charkalis Great response! This is the kind of discussion I was talking about. I'm very willing to give it a shot, and appreciate your generous offer. I may have to take you up on it. :-)
Like you said, though, you have to find what works for you. If I try it and I enjoy it, I'll gladly eat a little crow. Up to this point, though, I don't feel like I've missed out on a lot (probably just because I don't know what I'm missing). Ignorance is bliss, right?
Thanks for watching and contributing to the discussion!
I started head shaving with my shavette a few years ago and then moved to my straight razor I can tell you that yeah the shavette can be challenging when it come to head shaving but the straight razor is forgiving.
Giorgio Corrado That's what I've been told, but I'm still unsure. I think that, if I ever did pick up a straight, I'd probably do like Kickingandshaving with Kojak does and just use a DE on the noggin, but shave the face with a straight. Thanks for watching!
The Clean Shaver You will never know until you try it at least once. So come on over and shave straight I am sure Billy T still has a few Gold Dollars or Titan hanging around with your name on it. ;-)
I was going to ask for my first straight razor for my birthday but I'm reconsidering. The upkeep and cost for honing every few months puts me off. A 100 pack of double edge blades will last me 1-2 years. But who knows, I might end up eating my words if I do get a straight razor in the future haha
+ElementalHeroJoe I've started using one from time to time now, and I must say that I do enjoy using it, but I'd never be strictly a straight shaver. It all depends on what you get out of it. If you end up buying a straight, give it an honest try, but it doesn't work out, you can usually resell it for close to what you paid. If it ends up being an enjoyable experience for you, then keep doing it. This hobby is about ENJOYMENT.
Ive been TWS for about 5 years and the VERY 1st item I bought was the CLASSIC SAMURAI SHAVETTE. Using the on and off for a few years really made the transition easy to traditional Straights. And I’ve been at it for about eight months now, I hone my own Razors, and I practiced at first with a few gold dollars. But they can be wonky , they are actually known for that. But once you get a good edge on it it’s just like any other straight razor. Out of the box the heel and the tow most likely need adjustments. Mostly the heel, and I didn’t want to use a Dremel and mess it up so I got Dr. Matt to do that for me then I would do the sharpening. It really worked out great no mistakes!
I did about six Razors so far and just did a Theirs-Issard Sheep & Wolf 🐑 🐺
The stones I have are all made by NANIWA
My progression is
1k
3K
8k
12k
You raise many valid points, but also many personally biased ones which I believe you understood when you made the video - that it's what you think personally.
Just for kicks I'll throw in my own thoughts.
I did raise a brow when you mentioned that a properly honed straight razor can go 3-6 months before needing to be honed again. Yet however in the very next sentence say that you don't want to spend additional time on honing, stropping and the like.
It is fully feasible to achieve an edge that will last several hundred shaves if we're talking honing services from a professional, and you have 10-15 bucks to spend on a firehose strop to warm up the razor prior to use and clean it afterwards then a user with enough skill can clock over 1000 very comfortable shaves from a single straight razor before it needs about 45-60 minutes on the hones and strops to get back in shape.
I'm guessing that you would spend more time exchanging blades and the like than the time you need to spend honing up a dulled straight razor. It's expensive tools that you use, naturally, but they also last you a few lifetimes which can't be said for any of the new replace and toss methods.
Great thoughts. I actually do shave every now and then with a straight razor, and I'm dozens of shaves into a hone. I've been maintaining the edge with some Crox paste and a good strop. I don't know if I'll ever get into honing, though.
It's simple.....straight razor shaving is just not for everybody. I personally love the maintenance; sharpening and honing is something I love to do.
+MishaTal1 I'm actually coming around on it too. I don't by any means foresee a day when I'll be strictly a straight shaver (just too time consuming and risky on my head), but I now appreciate and enjoy a straight shave every now and then when I have time. Thanks for watching and commenting!
I couldn't use a straight razor on my head...my power to ya.
Having sharp objects that readily accessible to kids puts you... on edge?
Hahaha. I see what you did there. I've come up with ways to put my wife at ease.
I love shaving with a straight, and everything that it involves. However, if someone were to ask me if they should use a straight razor, my answer would be; do you want to?
If you do, then do it. If not,....don't
lol I remember you. I used to watch you back when I first started traditional WetShaving about five years ago!
You basically described why I no longer use a straight razor.
Great video , I think the whole maintenance thing is what has me being a little hesitant. I want one but do I need one ? I do have one but its more of a keepsake because it was my grandfathers. I have a shavette and a feather ac as non folding which I love and I am thinking I'm probably good with those. If I ever actually want to venture into straights I think I may just get my grandfathers revamped .
Chris Coyle Even if you don't shave with it that much, I think it would be worth having your grandfather's razor at least restored or cleaned up.
Thanks for watching!
Why are you scared about children messing with your straight razor when you probably have a draw full of kitchen knives?
stratocaster1986able I think the thing that scares me the most is that a razor (at least in my house) is WAY sharper than any of my knives. I'm probably making a bigger deal out of it than necessary, but I also have a special-needs son whose comprehension of danger is not the best. Call me overly cautious.
Yo! Completely agree!
For me,personally,I don't see the need as my DE razors give me the BBS I've always wanted,but never really got with cartridges. And, by the way, you NEVER have enuff shaving gear! :-)))
I drive my wife abs bananas every time we go into a store where bowls are sold. I see one I like, pick it up, start making the "mixing up lather" movements and she knows.....there he goes....again!
Really enjoyed the video, thx much!
I shaved with a straight razor for awhile, but like you I only hit my face up. A DE got my dome. Now I'm DE only because the straights are too much trouble. I'll say this: because I have a background with knives I didn't have much of a learning curve for the straights. Far and away I've butchered myself worse with a DE...
You do what works for you. I do shave with straights every now and then. But I vastly prefer the convenience of the DE for everyday shaving.
Did you ever tried the Italian shavette from Daun? That would be a good starter for a straight shaver.
I never have. I'm not familiar with that shavette.
Hello! My name is Nicole and I'm trying to find something for my fiance. He currently has a set and he's just having issues with bumps afterwards or shave burn, he'll break skin. I see so many videos and I want to find him something that works for him but obviously being somewhat price conscious. I want to do this all before Valentine's Day of course, but I'm trying to do some research and sifting through all of this is confusing. I watched your video on brushes and that helped me a ton but I still need help! If you can offer any help, I'd so appreciate it, thank you!!
Thanks for reaching out, Nicole and for connecting with me on my Facebook page. Hope I was able to help.
Scott, I enjoyed the video. I have similar feeling as you do on the subject, but I know that can change easily. Do you or anyone else have any experience with the heavier straights with disposable blades like the feather artist as an alternative. I'm tempted to try that option
Dan Mastronardi I tried one that my brother let me try out and it was a good shave. It was my first time using anything even close to a straight, though, so I stuck to only shaving my cheeks with it. Good feel to them, though.
Thanks for watching!
You're welcome. You are a natural at this stuff BTW
Thank you for the encouragement. I'll keep them coming as long as people keep watching. :-)
Just like you said, there's soooooo many types of shaving implements out there to choose from./ I love it btw.. Also your right about stropping and honing.... Luckily I have a knife sharpening business that I've been operating for years. Its called Mirrored Edges...Even though Razor sharpening is totally 100% different than knife sharpening and stropping as well. I say that to say this, I'm fortunate to already have the sharpening materials on hand so that's to my advantage. I just began wet shaving in June and started straight razor shaving in July into August. I can now produce the type shave with my straight that I never thought id be able to produce. So I'm just saying if you had the straight razors, you'd pick it up and it would become second nature like driving a car. I was just wondering if you ever got a straight sent to you yet ? ok bro take care.. Love watching ur channel.//. reciprocate where possible, thanks.Cap'n Hunter..
+Hunter Green Thanks, sir! I have been trying to get more into straights. I now own one (actually two, but the other isn't able to hold a good edge). They're a different animal, but I'm borrowing a few to get some practice and a feel for what I like.
+The Clean Shaver I never thought that I would be able to do what I now am capable of, when it comes to shaving with a straight razor. Luckily, I had encouragement and all kinds of advice from various friends in the wet shaving community which I'm sure you do as well. I now shave and swap up between my double edges and straight razors. It's almost like an equal rotation LOL. There for a while it was completely straight razor shaving and after I got it down, where it was like automatic motor control, if you know what I mean, then I began rotating between them all once again. The first day that I had a better shave with a straight razor than I have ever had with a double edge, was the day that won me over. Before that day, I never thought it was possible. Best of success to you bro. Let me know if I can help in anyway and if I cannot answer your questions, I know several guys that can. Have a great weekend.
+The Clean Shaver Ok bro. 💈👌😉👍💈
Well u was talking about your collection well ever since I started watching your videos I been busy collecting, but my problem is I got into watching hot towel shaving at barbershops and it’s making me want to be a straight razor shaver but it’s a lot easier to me shaving somebody’s else head than it is shaving your own because they want you to pull the skin tight well I get that but my fingers slide every time I pull my skin back! Hope to hear back from u
been trying to learn the shavette for a few weeks now. I thought if I practiced my technique I'd get the closest shave possible. But it's not much closer than my merkur progress, and not close at all around my lips and chin (above the jawline)
I like this video, even though I use a few straights plus doubled edge razors, for me I enjoy the extra time. Favourite saying in this hobby - Your Mileage May Vary. lol. still a great video. Thank You and I've subscribed to you
+Antonio Portolesi (Northern Shave Guy) Thank you!
Kids as an excuse, what about the kitchen knives.
+motosheep That's a valid point. Since this video, I've picked up a couple of straights. It hasn't been an issue yet, but I do my best to keep my blades well out of reach.
The Clean Shaver why dont you just buy a toolbox or some container you can lock to store a cut throat in and keep the key on you? i dont think your kids will be able to break a lock
Time to start Rocking and shaving brother Scott
Bob Randolph Maybe, Gonzo. We'll see!
I did consider straight shaving, but like yourself it's the stropping, honing etc that stopped me. The other issue is a danger one. At times my arm jerks and twitches, so if I was using a straight I'd almost certainly cut myself. So I'm a permanent DE guy.
David Quinton See? There's a very legitimate reason to not do it. Thanks for watching!
Shaving with a straight Razor is more of a Hobby. Guys take the joy in maintaining and preparing for a shave with one. If you just want to shave, it's not for you.
That's a great way to put it.
I think you should use what you want to use.
wotanson1 Thanks for watching! :-)
You are totally right!
Agree 100%. DE shaving is enough. Strops & honing are too much.
Honing doesn't cost you anything if you buy from a good shop, mine gets sharpend for free for lifetime
Man, I need to shop where you do.
+The Clean Shaver i just started with a shavette to learn tho, when I get the hang if it I will get a proper blade from that shop
I shaved with straight razors in the past but the fact of the matter is.... it's a lot more time consuming and it's a lot easier to cut yourself...and you will cut yourself from time to time, I don't care what anyone else says. DE razors are state of the art, convenient, safer and less of a hassle with a way smaller learning curve.
The maintenance is cheap or even the complete restoration of old cabbage cutters here are the financial costs that it cost me a synthetic stone grit 800,1000 21 euros Japanese stone synthetic grit 3000, 8000 24 euros and a natural stone of Trio Welsh 12 000, 15000 grit 35 euros and a strop Herold Solingen leather of Russian 50, green PUMA pastes 5 euros and a stop of my manufacture, when restarting I check the blades under a microscope ..... all my Couter 135 euros and since I buy razors between 12 and 25 euros on Ebay I have 5 for the moment and the maintenance takes me less than a minute
And if it's just for an interview it costs less, I do the complete restoration
Cordially from France
fair enough! So when are you getting one LOL
Kickingandshaving with Kojak You tell me, buddy. :-)
Thanks for watching!
Man, I am not even brave enough to use DE on my bald head! Doing it on my face, but....
Michael Thomas You'll get there if you want to do it. Let me know if you have any questions about doing it. Thanks for watching!
I also have a 1960 Gillette Fatboy.
It's a great razor!
I switched to straights and its about the same price after the initial investment as DE even if you don't hone it yourself it cost 20$ and if you take car l care of your blade it can last a year. If you do hone its even cheaper. I think it's a better relaxing shave too. If your buying all these soaps and brushes to get a good shave why skimp on that? The experience is why I switched.. maybe that's why I'm confused.
Thanks for your comments! I actually do occasionally shave with a straight now. I own two. After this video, some friends sent me a razor and it changed my mind.
Typically, guy’s don’t do head shaves with a SR. It’s dangerous! You need to be able to see the blade on a straight razor. A properly honed SR is NOT for flailing around the back of your head with.
yeah they look scary man but that other type of straight razor looked way cool
+Jonahshaw18 The shavette? They're definitely a cheap intro to straight razors, but they're not the same. I do shave with straights now and enjoy them, but mostly stick to DE's.
I don't use a straight razor either, for a lot of the same reasons that you mention. I'll add one more. There is a lot of phony macho bravado attached to it.
+zarchy55 I do use a straight now, but I don't own more than a couple. I also don't shave very often with them because of the time associated with it.
that's exactly why I don't own a straight razor, the up keep.
Casey Dietz what up keep? you sharpen it once every few months or 6 months and you strop it every now and again
You forgot reason number 4 or 5: you will have to grow a goatee this way it will take less to shave :) Just kidding! I own a Feather AC and is giving me some comfortable shaves but, like you said, it's tricky to maneuver it around the face but I'm sure you have to give it some time.
shayo242 SWMBO gives a big fat "NOOOOOPE" to the goatee thing. A well-trimmed chin beard is one thing, but she hates it when I have a mustache, so if I want to use a straight, I'll have to shave the lip.
Thanks for watching!
The hardest area to shave with a straight is under the nose i feel like the correct way to shave is to be very step on the angel. lyn's video on shaving with them was 100 percent pointless he only shaved the easy areas of the face.
Doesnt matter if you prefer not to shave with a straight razor, the important thing is that you know how to do it... every man should learn how to sharpen a knife, be proficient with a firearm, start a fire, and shave with a straight edge.. whether or not they do these things all the time is up to them.. But at least they know how.
+craigslistrr O Great comment. Let me guess, you are a fan of Ron Swanson as well, right? ;-)
Never heard of him.
+craigslistrr O No worries. He's a character from "Parks & Recreation". I have a feeling you'd like him.
You know your good wife will quote you and now she will have video footage to prove you said it. Too much of a good thing, not possible! And kids, you've gotta love em, you cant sendem back after all and they are the best surprises in your life and a good women said yes & married you! YudaMan!
drop a straight razor in the sink it can be catastrophic
i have used straight razors in the past but now i like to use my parker sr1 shavette much less bother
John James I think I agree with you. I've used a straight now, and I'm not convinced it's for me. If I want the experience, I'll just use a shavette. But I vastly prefer the DE experience.
+The Clean Shaver think the only people who like using them are people who want to be Sweeney Todd ^.^
SafetyRazor FTW
Use to go out with a women that carried one.
Yikes! She means business!
Fond memories. Have a great week sir.
move to Belgium then lol
I know you will never shave your head with a SR, but you should see the guy doing it that on another video, looks enough like you to be your brother.........
Actually, I have. Several times.
"Overcoming My Fear of Straight Razors": ruclips.net/video/K9sqYtvKvrM/видео.html
"How to Shave My Head With a Straight Razor:" ruclips.net/video/rWtEYk-kckU/видео.html
Scott, that was an attempt at sarcasm. Really bugs me that you got it so fast and I am still not able to get through a total shave without the DE.
Hahaha. Oops! There needs to be a sarcasm font for online comments.
I took to DE shaving pretty easily, but that was with a mildly agressive razor. Maybe a straight razor is in my future. I don't know. You having kids is probably reason enough not to have a straight razor.
You don't even have a beard
Jack Ryan That's why I'm The Clean Shaver. :-)
Oh I get it now😀
Grow a beard that's the way gods inteneded you to look
I have. I go back and forth with the beard quite a bit. I don't think I'll ever have a full-length man mane, but my wife certainly likes that I can rock either look.