Well, I'm not bleeding yet!

**trumpetchris** · 08-20-2009, 12:00 PM

Greetings everyone! I've been toying with the idea of a "real" shave for a few years now, and finally took the plunge. Purchased a starter kit with a Merkur 178 razor, a badger brush, some Col. Conk Almond soap, bowl and stand. Just finished my first shave (2 passes WTG). Been lurking for a week or so and read all about mixing up a creamy lather, pre-shaving, and "carving" technique. Made it through without any blood, but in all honesty I was rather tentative. I used the included Merkur blade, and am reading some reviews about other blades to try. I think I'm going to stick with this brand for a couple months to get my technique down and not throw too many variables into the mix. (Although I am eying up some Tabac soap and some Proraso cream).

Enough about my face for now. I'm a college professor and freelance musician in the Southeast. I enjoy good music, good cigars, good spirits, and now a good shave! Hope to learn even more and get even more ensconced in the good life. Cheers!

**DSB** · 08-20-2009, 02:07 PM

Welcome. I highly recommend getting a sampler pack of blades from West Coast Shaving. I don't know anyone who has anything good to say about the Merkur blades. Of course, it it's working for you, go with it.

**NickCutlip** · 08-20-2009, 03:21 PM

Welcome to B&B !!

**Luc** · 08-20-2009, 03:35 PM

Welcome to B&B!

**luvmysuper** · 08-20-2009, 03:58 PM

Welcome, glad to have you here.

**Cutter** · 08-20-2009, 04:08 PM

Originally Posted by trumpetchris

I enjoy good music, good cigars, good spirits, and now a good shave!

Welcome! Sounds like you have an appreciation for the finer things. You`ve come to the right place!

**boboakalfb** · 08-20-2009, 04:48 PM

Welcome to B&B, Chris! I think you'll enjoy your time here.

**Tom Ford** · 08-20-2009, 05:08 PM

Welcome to B&B!!

**closer** · 08-20-2009, 07:10 PM

Welcome!

**mdunn** · 08-20-2009, 07:28 PM

welcome aboard, mate!

**Starcar** · 08-20-2009, 07:33 PM

Welcome!

**DunEdinRanger** · 08-20-2009, 07:55 PM

Welcome! It's gouda to have you here!

**mretzloff** · 08-20-2009, 08:00 PM

Welcome to Badger & Blade. I too would get a sampler pack. I would move away from the Merkur blade. There are many better blades out there.

**trumpetchris** · 08-20-2009, 11:43 PM

Thanks guys, I ordered a sampler pack of blades from west coast. The feather and derby look like fun.... Hope my face hangs in there.

**JohnDoom** · 08-21-2009, 12:47 AM

Welcome! I just had my first DE Wet Shave too! I picked up that set from WestCoast Shaving and was told the best one for newer people are the Derby blades. Let us know how it works out!

**Koss** · 08-21-2009, 12:50 AM

Originally Posted by trumpetchris

Thanks guys, I ordered a sampler pack of blades from west coast. The feather and derby look like fun.... Hope my face hangs in there.

Excellent! Start off with the derby or one of the personna's first. I'd leave the feather for last, as you need a well honed technique for them. Yes, they are that sharp! Not scary though, but are not as forgiving as other blades out there. They are my second favorite blade though! You should get about 3-5 shaves out of a derby or personna. I have a heavy, thick beard, and do about 3-4 passes with touch ups afterwards... and can get 3 out of derby.