My first day using the feather

**gconrad** · 03-05-2007, 03:40 PM

I thought I was ready for what this newbie has learned is the sharpest of the sharp DE blades. I had used merkurs and israelis, and skipped the derby's to go to the feather. This was far and away my closest shave, but numerous cuts attest to the fact I must go much slower and use lighter pressure. Maybe I got hit with a bit of overenthusiasm, if there is such a word.

**galpman** · 03-05-2007, 03:44 PM

Originally Posted by gconrad

I thought I was ready for what this newbie has learned is the sharpest of the sharp DE blades. I had used merkurs and israelis, and skipped the derby's to go to the feather. This was far and away my closest shave, but numerous cuts attest to the fact I must go much slower and use lighter pressure. Maybe I got hit with a bit of overenthusiasm, if there is such a word.

Also be careful of blade angle. Take it slow and little pressure as you have indicated. What razor are you using?

**Leisureguy** · 03-05-2007, 03:59 PM

Lately, I've backed off the Feather in favor of the Swedish Gillettes...

**gconrad** · 03-05-2007, 04:55 PM

I am using a merkur razor. I really wish I had something with a longer handle.

**analog_kid** · 03-05-2007, 05:20 PM

Originally Posted by gconrad

I am using a merkur razor. I really wish I had something with a longer handle.

They do make a long handle version of the HD and the Classic I believe.

**Kyle** · 03-05-2007, 05:30 PM

As Matt has pointed out, Merkur does offer a long handle (LH) model. I've recently acquired one and have really been enjoying it.

**ouch** · 03-05-2007, 05:40 PM

The Merkur 23C long handle performs exceptionally well with the Feathers or Swedes.

And gconrad, I find the Feathers perform best on their second and third shave. Keep at it.

**vespergo** · 03-05-2007, 06:53 PM

ditto what ouch says about the second and third days

**Amyn** · 03-05-2007, 06:54 PM

Feathers are very good, but sharp blades. Swedish Gillettes are a hair less sharper but much more forgiving.

**Ernie** · 03-05-2007, 07:09 PM

Those are interesting remarks. Try angle adjustment and see how it goes.

**ericmoritz** · 03-05-2007, 07:43 PM

How long do feathers last, I've been throwing them out after the third shave.

**WildBill** · 03-05-2007, 08:10 PM

For me the long handle was very difficult to control as a newb. I was one more bad shave away from heading back to the Fusion when I decided to get the HD for one last go at it.
What a difference! The weight and shorter length allows you more precise placement and you need literally zero pressure. The Classic was just too long and light and as a newb I would either put too much pressure or not enough. The HD eliminates this (for me anyway).
Also, I've been swishing my razor in alcohol after every shave. Ready for shave #6 tomorrow with my Feather.

WildBill

**straycat264** · 03-06-2007, 01:02 AM

Just did the same thing, and braved a Feather for the first time this morning

Maybe I was being overcautious after reading threads like this one, but I started with the Vision set verrrry low, and mustered as gentle a touch as I could (only been using a DE for a short while, so this isn't coming naturally yet). Result - loved it - that was the nicest, most irritation-free DE shave I've had yet. If future shaves go anything like this one, it could end up being my blade of choice.

**DUQ** · 03-06-2007, 06:14 AM

Feathers are awsome blades, for me anyway. You just need to let the razor "float" on your face. Very little pressure. If you hit your face with a second pass, you get an even closer shave.