[JeffR]

Greetings, Folks,

Another newbie checking in. After reading a bunch for the last week or so, I wanted to say a sincere "thank you" to all of the experts who took the time and effort to share their knowledge and provide encouragement.

I've never used a straight, but have used my dad's old L & A injector-blade "shavette-style" razor. After using it for years to trim around my moustache & sideburns, I found myself not bothering with the Trac II and just finishing all my shaving with the L & A. Later, after a family member and an another occasion myself cut our finger quite badly with it, I discarded it.

Like many, after the latest round of cartridge-razor gimmickry, I'm considering getting a regular straight razor. I really miss the control the shavette provided, but now I'm very, very respectful of how sharp these instruments are. I'm still more than a little concerned about the inherent risk of injury. Not so much for myself, but for others. This time around, I'd be looking to use a good, secure storage case!

Best Regards,
Jeff

[dward]

Welcome aboard Jeff. I assume that the danger to others refers to probably tykes running around the household and not that you are modern day Jack-the-Ripper. I have never shaved with a feather so I can't say anything about them. I went from a twin saftey to the straight in one fell swoop. I started with just the sideburns to the jawline and the cheeks first, and only WTG. I have since braved XG and doing my neck area. Next is the chin area. Not sure I need to do AGT. But that will come in due time. I have tried to make this a positive learning experiece and am taking my time. I still use my twin safety to complete the areas I have yet to learn and to do touch ups. By the way, the twin is a nice heavy handled Merkur, not the cheap landfill problem plastics.

[Mike7120]

Hello Jeff, welcome to SRP! I threw away my MACH3 over 7 months ago and have never looked back. Straight razor shaving not only gives me a closer shave and less irritation than a disposable, but it also gives me a sense of enjoyment and relaxation. Sure, it takes a while to learn proper shaving technique, stropping technique, honing technique, etc. but you can do it. We here at SRP will be more than happy to help you along the way.

[gugi]

Welcome aboard, Jeff!

[RobertSubnet]

Welcome aboard Jeff!

I've done about 40 shaves now with the straight and I love it! Yes there is a learning curve so be patient with yourself. I now routinely shave ATG and think nothing of it-you will to before long.

~Robert

[netsurfr]

Welcome aboard Jeff!
Glad you decided to join us.
Enjoy the journey that is straight shaving!

[xman]

If it's any consolation, I've heard a good many stories about shavette mishaps. The nice thing about the straight razor is that you don't have to monkey around with replacing the blades. I think this makes a huge difference in safety, but I'm just guessing since I've only ever used a Track II and a straight razor in my life.

X

[AusTexShaver]

Over the years I've used them all and a straight is no more (or less) dangerous. The only razor safe to leave lying around if you have small children is an electric and even then they'll probably find a way to cut themselves with the sideburn trimmer or choke on the cord.

Just use the normal safety precautions you would with any potentially dangerous tool and have fun. For me it sometimes works to think about how brave I am and how sexy I must look hacking away with something that could remove an ear with a flick of the wrist.

Well OK...maybe I exaggerated about the sexy part...but I'm standing by the brave comment.

[onimaru55]

Greetings & Welcome...

Enjoy the straight razor experience & keep that healthy respect - You'll do just fine.

[methodin]

I think using an SR is equivalent to handling a gun. You can get a lot of enjoyment out of the care and maintenance - and master the usage - but you must always respect the danger it poses. The worst thing you can do is get too ****y or mishandle it.

I think the only time I really cut myself, which still wasn't that bad, was when my mind wandered while shaving. Next thing I know I have a red line across my cheek. I suppose learning the hard way is the best way to learn

Anyway, welcome to the boards. There are tons of people here to help.

[maplemaker]

Welcome, Jeff. Stick with this SR shaving. It's the best way to go. As long as you maintain blade edge awareness, you shouldn't have anything to worry about as far as safety.

[JeffR]

Thank you, folks, for your kind words of welcome and encouragement!

Sincerely,
Jeff