2 Month Check-in

[Dave K]

Just checking in after two months of DE shaving.

Still using my original gear:
Classic Shaving Razor (Merkur 34C-like) and Classic Shaving Pure Badger Brush, Feathers. I regret not getting a "real" razor like a merkur or EJ, but have to admit I'm pretty happy. Pretty freakin close shaves. The Feathers are pretty sharp too and last about 6-8 shaves, though I don't have anything to compare with. I'm getting ready to order my first blade sampler. Can't wait to try bluebirds, astras, gillettes. As for my brush I'm also regretful for not getting a name brand but, I again I guess I can't complain. I may start looking for something little more stiffer. Boar perhaps?

Current fave soap:
CO Bigelow/Proraso. I love this stuff! Defintely intergral to my ideal wet-shaving experience. As a menthol-head, this cream hits the spot and the scent is classic barbershop nostalgia (though i've never really experienced a real barber shave). However, as happy as I am with Proraso, I want another standby menthol-soap just for the sake of variety. I've got my eyes on: MB Ice line, Razorock Mentholipo, Ingram, Vostok, and Valobra, and Santa Novella Crema.

Soap Sampling:
Compliments of Garry's Sample Shop: Cella, Tabac, TOBS Lime, Trumpers Coconut. First off, Garry provides an awesome service. I got me some great shaves from the Cella and Tabac. Love that scent from the Tabac! Very manly indeed. However, as I mentioned earlier, I'm a menthol-head and live in Hawaii. The tallow based non-menthol soaps are greats shaves but I NEED my menthol fix in this humid environment. I may end up picking up a jar of Tabac.

Technique:
As everyone mentions, I'm finding that the learning curve is steep and long. I still struggle with my chin, under-nose, and mouth-corners areas (almost 4 -5 passes). Everywhere else gets 2 passes. I try to carve out some time to shave but as a father of young kids, I sometimes need to git and go, and it's at those times that I end up shredding up my face. I love taking the time to do a good shave but at the same time it's what makes me want to turn back to my M3.

That's it for now!

[CB1]

I know what you mean about the time factor however I've found that minutes are being "shaved" off of my time without really trying. I'm at a 2 pass 15 minute shave for work in the mornings and longer on the weekends when I'm savoring that time to myself and relaxing. I do find it therapeutic and stress relieving. In fact stress has been a bit of an issue lately with my busy work schedule so making time to enjoy a few minutes of self time has been great!

[ackvil]

Don't obsess about a BBS shave. Concentrate on getting a decent shave and with time and practice you will get it right.

[DigJazz]

I know, I have difficulty getting both BBS AND no irritation. Welcome!

[RaiserLiebe]

I know, I have difficulty getting both BBS AND no irritation. Welcome!

I am also about 8 weeks into DE shaving.

Yes- close AND comfortable in the same shave are elusive.

Unlike the OP, I tend not to stick with the same equipment. My pre and post shave routines are stable, but I like different razors, and am still working through my blade sampler.

Pre- Soak brush and razor in warm or hot, shower, face scrub with washcloth, baking soda in water to face and leave on. Don't dry face. Rinse off baking soda and apply baby oil. Lather.

Post- cold rinse, alum, cold rinse, witch hazel, fan dry, AB/AS.

Shave- I alternate between a lot of razors (New long comb, New Standard, Tuckaway, Gillette Pre-WWII Tech, 34c HD, birth quarter Flare tip, and I have a Sledgehammer on the way), and a variety of blades. It is kind of challenging and I have paid a (small) price in blood! This is emphatically NOT what you are supposed to do in the first months of shaving, but i enjoy the vintage razors (cleaning them up to sparkle, and sterilizing them, and shaving like in the good old days). How many 80-100 year old tools are superior to today's technology? Not many things hold up as well as vintage razors! Each of them interests me in their own way. Really can't wait to try the Slant Sledge (39c).

Blades, I like the Wilkinson (doesn't get the respect it deserves around these parts) and especially the SuperMax SP. Wow, my face loves those two in several razors.

Cheers!

Cheers!