Worth trying single edge Gem?

[I Like it Shaved]

Hey guys, curiosity has gotten the best of me and I was considering trying an SE Gem razor. How different is it to shaving with a DE? Are there any advantages/disadvantages? I've been DE shaving for a little over a month or so now.


Thanks

[RichGem]

Yes, it's worth trying, but the shave angle is totally different than a DE. I'd suggest getting down your DE technique first -- or at least your prep & lather technique and then go from there. I also find it helpful to stretch the skin when SE shaving (somewhat like str8 shaving) while I don't find that as necessary with DE. Finally, be prepared for some irritation the first few times you SE shave, even when you get DE down. The correct shave angle is different (as I mentioned) and may take a little time to get down. Above all, go slowly (you may not want to make all the passes you do with a DE... I find it's very irritating to go ATG with an SE) and you should get a nice shave.

Now that I've successfully scared you off, go try it and enjoy!

[Veritas II]

This question can be answered in one word: YES!

Now to the finer points. As Rich pointed out, the technique is substantially different from DE shaving. My first shave with my 1912 resulted in a terrible case of razor burn, a good bit of swearing, and more than a little blood. Be prepared with WH or at least an alum block.

A good lather is essential to SE shaving. Any shortcomings in your prep routine will be made very obvious by the SE blade. Keep your strokes short and the blade angle fixed. I still don't have the angle thing worked out for the contours of my chin, but I'm getting better. Do not make a pass over any area that doesn't have fresh lather. With my DE I can make short clean-up strokes over an area I just shaved with no irritation. I cannot do this with my SEs. ATG passes are as smooth and easy as they are with a DE for me, as long as I have proper lather.

I agree with Rich about stretching your skin. I find that this makes the shave easier - probably because it makes my face a flatter surface for the razor to glide over.

Also, even though they look the same, do not use utility blades from the hardware store. Sure, this should go without saying, but I'm sure it's been tried. Check your local Walgreens or Rite-Aid for SE blades. They will probably have GEM stainless ones. These provide me with a good shave and last longer (5-6 shaves) than any DE I've used (3-4, max).

[RocketMan]

What the guy with 14,088 posts said.:blink: I'll go with the experience every time!

(sound advice at any rate)

[Mr. O]

This thread needs a disclaimer:


YMMW
Once you go SE, it's awfully hard to switch back to DE (especially if your SE shave was a success)


Good luck and let us know how it turns out!:thumbup:

[Dave Deluxe]

"Once you go SE, it's awfully hard to switch back to DE (especially if your SE shave was a success)"

Yep, DE shaving just isn't the same anymore.

DD

[Veritas II]

"Once you go SE, it's awfully hard to switch back to DE (especially if your SE shave was a success)"

Yep, DE shaving just isn't the same anymore.

DD

This may not (OK, probably won't) mean an end to DE RAD. It will just mean that they won't see as much use.

At least that's what happened with me.

[I Like it Shaved]

I'll be on the lookout @ BST, thanks! I'll wait before I perfect my DE skills before moving on, but having a razor sitting there waiting for me wouldnt be too bad.

Are there any suggestions as to which razor is better for beginners?

My 2 requirements:
1. Must be all metal
2. Must say Brooklyn, NY

Thanks again!

[p.m.a.]

I believe that you have nothing to lose (well, possibly a little blood. I hope not!) and plenty to gain by trying out an SE razor. They are inexpensive and very effective. There are some great threads in Safety Razors forum: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/forumdisplay.php?f=33

Here is another excellent source for information on SE razors: http://theoriginalsafety.com/directory.html

Wonderful avatar, by the way!

[Sledgehammer39]

Go for it!!! It's a different shave altogether from a DE. The SE Gem's are widely available and can be had for pretty cheap. It's definitely a YMMV thing give it a shot while they are cheap.

[Deltaboy]

I use both but I seem to get the BBS with the SE more than with the DE.

[klm099]

the se shave is very satisfying, great blades are hard to find or I would use it more often,, I always use it on the back of my neck

ken

[brianw]

In a word YES... My DE's are gathering some dust and my SE's( Gems and Injectors) are all seeing use 3 to 4 times a week... straights the other days

[amspratt]

I think it's worth trying everything--straights, SE's, DE's--just for the experience, if nothing else. SE's are quite different from DE's, in my limited experience, but lots of fun.

[Omnichron]

let's just say once you try SE and master it... your DEs will collect dust.

[HoosierTrooper]

Worth trying single edge Gem? Yes.

[Legion]

I'm all about the Gem SE's at the moment. I haven't used a DE in weeks. They are definitely worth a try. I used the bakelite handled Gem Jr last night. It is somewhat annoying that this funny little razor that has been sitting in a draw for years actually shaves rings around the most expensive Gillettes and Murkers.

[auk1124]

Weird looking? check
Blades a little more difficult to source? check
Relatively cheap to buy? check
Awesome shaves? check

No downside to trying one, imo.