What happened?

Seraphim · 07-24-2008, 03:35 PM

OK, I have had no problem getting smooth, comfortable BBS shaves for a long time now.

But last night I had a truly wonderful shave. Same setup as I have used many times previously: LeGrelot 1/4 grind, Valobra soap, pre-shave oil--all per usual. I have a relatively new TM heirloom strop with canvas. I have been using it for a couple of weeks now, it's relatively new, but not a change made last night.

I had only done a quick WTG only shave the day before, which left me far from BBS (especially under the chin), just trying to look somewhat decent for work after a long travel schedule, so I had some pretty decent whiskers last night to contend with.

I went direct to XTG, and then ATG followed by "search and destroy" blade buffing of trouble spots.

All of this is as per usual. Nice enough shave, but not unusually so.

I then hit my face up with a cold water rinse and my cruel taskmaster- the alum block.

However, this time, there was no sting at all

. The alum slid around my face with absolutely no tingle, no nothing. I did two alum passes because I just couldn't fathom the alum not giving me that all too familar slap in the face sting.

Nope. Nada.

So, I am left with a wonderful shave, and I have no idea what I did differently to deserve it!

Was it going direct to XTG, thereby eliminating one extra pass? Had my stropping technique somehow improved the edge to vorpal sharpness? Did I get the blade angle "just right", and can I find that angle ever again?

I guess I'll just have to wait and see tomorrow morning...

The relentless pursuit of perfection!

sebell · 07-25-2008, 01:50 AM

Sometimes great shaves `just happen', but hopefully it's just your shaves getting
better and better all the time!

- Scott

gssixgun · 07-25-2008, 02:33 AM

My guess would be that because you did the XTG first you were more careful and used lighter pressure, the true secret to a irritation free shave....
Good job whatever it was

Seraphim · 07-25-2008, 03:02 PM

I often go XTG as my first pass (depending on whisker length), so I don't think that was the key.

Anyhow, I did not repeat my miracle shave this morning. Great shave, but the alum block told me "better luck next time"

I did do alot more than usual blade buffing this morning (very BBS!), which may have put me over the edge...

Ah well.

Maybe I need to go buy a new razor!

YEAH! A new razor!!!