New to DE and all that follows

[vhild]

Hi gents,

I recently got a feeling I have to upgrade my grooming habits and got into creams and DE razors. The first razor I bought was an Edwin Jagger (see picture) that I bought because of it´s aesthetic merits. The other one shown is something I found amongst my father-in-laws belongings (Gillette). I´ve now tried both for a week, and as much as I love the Jagger, I feel it´s a bit aggressive because of it´s size and weight. Do you guys share this opinion? Both razors are presently equipped with Wilkinson Swords, and I have some Derbys to try out next. Cream is Taylor´s Sandalwood.

What do you think, should I get rid of Jagger and get a lighter shaver like Merkur 34c? Any other suggestions for a newbie?

Many thanks!

[Sledgehammer39]

Welcome Aboard, you got some nice razors there. I would keep them both, I find them not that aggressive at all.

[Clutch Cargo]

Hi, vhild! Welcome to the forum and to the world of wet shaving! Don't get rid of anything at this point. Both the Gillette and the Edwin Jagger are excellent razors, and in time you may do a complete 180-degree reversal on your initial feelings. Taylor of Old Bond Street Sandalwood Shaving Cream is also a classic. From your posting, it sounds like you've only tried the Wilkinson Sword blades so far, with Derby's up next. Trying an assortment is a must. While you're testing the Derby's, I recommend ordering either a sampler pack or a few 5-blade individual packs of your choosing. You will find that the same razor shaves completely differently as you change brands of blades. If you're coming from cartridge shaving, one of the biggest differences is to let the weight of the head of the razor do the work -- don't apply any added pressure. If you prep properly, create a nice slick lather, and use a very sharp blade, you'll have no need to apply added pressure. Let the razor do its job; it doesn't need any "extra help!" Over time, you'll develop your own personal shaving style, and you'll know whether or not you have a preference for ligher or heavier weight razors, and razors that are either mild or more aggressive shavers. Your Edwin Jagger, by the way, is not considered an aggressive razor, although the larger diameter handle does make it heavier. My recommendation is to keep what you have right now and work on your technique while trying an assortment of blade types. You will know when you find the right combination.

[vhild]

Thank you for your input! I´ll keep them, in a any case, you cannot have too many razors, eh?
Still, I´m getting the Merkur too and will get an assortment pack of blades. I believe feathers are to be avoided when starting out?

[Greyfox]

Welcome to B&B.

[Optometrist]

Welcome to B&B!:thumbup1:
I had one of those Georgian handled EJs but didn't keep it for long. It just didn't "feel right" to hold. In terms of aggressiveness of the razors, the Merkur 34HD is more aggressive than any of the EJ razors, and for that reason it was my preferred DE razor before switching to straights.

[vhild]

Maybe I should try an EJ with a "Merkur-like" straight, plain handle then if the head of 34 is aggressive?

[Dennard]

Welcome!

[NickCutlip]

Welcome to B&B !!

[ackvil]

Welcome to B&B.

[random-hero]

Welcome to B&B

[GDCarrington]

Welcome to the good ship B&B. Take a stroll on the promenade deck and enjoy the voyage. :thumbup1:

Always remember, relax but be vigilant when you shave!

[demaro]

Welcome to the group !! Keep them both !!

[Banjoman]

Welcome to B&B!

[Ulrich]

Welcome, vhild!

[jmg]

Welcome to B&B!