Yaqi Beast 2, variant!

[Albert64]

I am hoping to find a Yaqi that is superior to my R41, haven't decided which one to start with

 

[Eben Stone]

SLANTember, Saturday Sept 7th 2024

Razor : Yaqi Top aggressive slant with a Yaqi Brass nickel coated handle. Mfg 2019>, aggressive range. Note NOT the best razor for a rookie until skill level has seasoned a little IMO. I like to use this razor every once in a while to test my technique and skill level. This razor (YTAS) when mastered gives some of the closest shaves you can possibly accomplish with a safety razor or straight razor has been my experiences because of lots of blade feel or blade exposure. I like to use a Steep approach(riding the bar) with a short handle for quicker response around the chin area and less leverage. I also use a blade shim under the primary blade for rigidity + Don't plunk this razor at start because it bites. Had a close comfortable Stellar shave this morning!
Blade : GSB (4) sharp and smooth with reasonable longevity.
Soap : Razorock Irish countryside, nice unique scent (Creed Irish green inspired) with excellent lather qualities.
Brush : Yaqi "Bali" 24mm 3band badger. Excellent lather generator, luxury pillow like tips, nice splay scrubber + excellent lather painter. Man did this knot bloom for a dense packed knot, still a very nice brush to work the face.
Pre shave : (Dedicated Cashmere synthetic)Brush wash whole face with CeraVe hand bar cleanser with a dollop of clear Aloe Vera on the cleaned beard area.
Prep : Cold water rinse after each pass of 2 + pickups. WTG + ATG + pickups.
Post shave : Razorock Irish spring with witch hazel + a dollop of CeraVe moisturizing lotion(scentless).
Results : View attachment 1907374 or CCS,DFS,BBS + no irritation + 2 small blemish weepers= Had a close comfortable shave this morning with my Yaqi Top aggressive Slant with a GSB blade. Great shave but a few small blemishes got sheered off(small round weepers) other than that had a stellar shave.
View attachment 1907392
Have some great shaves!

Thanks for mentioning the steep angle and shim for the YTAS. I'm feeling something like blade chatter when going over the chin area. I had to do lots of buffing strokes. I've been using a shallow angle. I didn't try steep. I also didn't think a shim would be useful in a slant. I'll try both next shave...