Question about my - first time

[thatbrian]

I just finished my first wet shave and I want to thank B&B and the people who contribute to the information here. I don’t think I would have dared such a feat without all of the wisdom I gained here. Thanks gentlemen! (Just had to say gentlemen)

Today I received my Gillette slim handle adjustable shaver (also have an HD on the way) and Derby blades and put them straight to use. I had to get down my thoughts for posterity and also thank you guys.

I started off with the shaver set to #1 and I went very, very slooooooowly fearing that I would slice my head clean off. I went up to 3 and then 5 and stopped there for today! I am happy to announce that I did NOT draw any blood and more importantly I got a great shave! It took forever, but I’m glad that I went slowly. It was very quite here so I could hear the whiskers being cut which was actually helpful in getting the angle of attack correct. The best tip I picked up from all of my reading was to not put any pressure on the blade and simply let the razor do the work.

Ok, now I have a question. I did get a very close shave – but – I had to go over areas 5-6 (or more) times! I could probably get this close a shave with my Good News disposable if I spent this much time! Was it because it was set to 3? Should I put a little more pressure on the blade? Also, on the toughest part of my beard I really felt that the blade was not sharp enough to cut through with ease.

Will I be able to get a nice shave in 1-2 passes?

Thanks again to B&B.

thatbrian

[boboakalfb]

First let me say welcome to B&B! I don't have any experience with Gillette adjustables so I will leave that for some experts here. You will probably need at least 2 passes. For now you can do 2 with grain passes which should get you respectable...not BBS. After a bit you can move to cross grain passes then eventually against grain. Remember you have one blade now...not 3,4 or 5. So you are reducing the stubble with each pass. As you get your technique down it will not take you as long to shave, but why not use this as time to relax and enjoy yourself. I know with a disposable and Canned Gel or foam no matter how much time you spent would it be an enjoyable experience.

Regards,

[Leisureguy]

Try a more aggressive setting (larger number) but I recommend NOT using pressure. Everything I've read recommends against pressure...

[mrob]

Good advice above--you're on the right track. Take it slow and don't aim to get smooth with 1 or even 2 passes, just reduce the forest.

When you feel you have the technique built up, look over Ron's 4 pass approach and give it a shot. You have nothing but skin and blood to lose.:cool: