Technically, this isn't a knife, rather a razor question... but I just thought I would ask if anybody else likes to shave the old fashioned way, with a straight razor? While I have worn a full beard for over a year now, when I do shave, I prefer my Dovo razor and strop, a shaving brush and cake/mug, hot towel, and a splash of after shave. Nothing like it to get you going in the AM. So, has anybody else ever given the old "throat cutter" a try?
Whoa, Rob. I understand there's quite a learning curve to using a straight razor, with lots of blood and you go to work looking like you stuck your face in a Cuisinart. Did you go to barber school?
There is a little bit of a learning curve, but not really all that bad. The funny thing is that I have only cut myself three times in my life shaving, and all three have been with a modern disposable blade razor. The main keys are a sharp razor and a steady hand. Once you get into straight shaving, you will find out how much your initial fears are unfounded (trust me, I had them, too). No on the barber school, I just got a straight razor and strop years ago and gave it a whirl. This was before Youtube, too. ;-)
Solingen Germany Steel is some of the best in the world for holding an edge. I've used a straight razor on occasion...even had the leather strop.
I've always wanted to try a barber shave, but as for doing it myself, you can include me the $&@# out!
Ha... I can totally understand, it can be intimidating at first. There is a barber shop here in the Knoxville area called Franks, that does the straight shave and hot towel facial. That is where I go to get my hair cut- pretty cool place. Very old school, they even give you a frosted mug of root beer while you wait.
I've used the old Gillette safety razor since 1968. That's what my dad used and said it was the best shave so I never looked back. I have a couple straight razors but haven't built up the courage to give the a try. I think you need someone to do it for you rather than trying to do it yourself.
Been using a straight razor for many years. Like most things it takes practice but the pros far outweigh the cons.
