Way OT Blade vs Electric shavers

BajaTom

Can a lifelong blade user make the switch to electric razor and be satisfied? The blades are not holding up very well any longer. For the $$$$ it might be time to switch. Any suggestions on type of shaver to buy? Thanks, tom

fishlessman

i switched to a straight edge a couple years back, bloody learning curve for about a month but its simple now. much better shave than either electric or disposables. it will last a lifetime touching it up on a stone every six months or so. the blade i use at camp was made in the late 1800's, bought it on ebay for less than 20 dollars

Rascal

I've used wet razors for most of my life (fav's are Gillette "Good News' and "Mach 3"). Over the years I've tried a few electric types, but as fishlessman wrote, they don't place a close second to a wet shave.

AzScott

I got sick and tired of the blade cartridges a little over a year ago. Five blades, really? A dollar + for a cartridge, come on. I bought a Merkur double edge razor and am using Feather blades. Check out www.classicshaving.com and if you make a change be sure to pick up some of the Classic Shaving Cream. I would never go back to a cartridge but I am thinking of getting a straight edge blade.

fishlessman

mitchells woolfat soap is the best ive found, looks pricey at first but a puck lasts maybe 16 months. if your looking at straights check out the srp forum and have your first blade sharpened by the webmaster. makes a big difference as new blades are not shave ready

Rascal

I only shave every 2-3 days so I get lots of mileage for my bucks. One razor will last me months....

Cpt'n Cook

I like Brush, shaving soap and blade. Unlike that wus Fishlessman I use a sharpened rock instead of a cutthroat. :laugh:

Buxwheat

I prefer the Wet/Dry electrics. I like to shave in the shower and these electrics can go in the shower with you. Currently using a Norelco Cool Skin, but the best one I have had was a Panasonic. Norelco does a better job on the neck than the Panasonic, but the Panasonic was closer on the face. Both provide a shave almost as close as a blade. The Norelco uses Nivea lotion that is dispensed by the razor. I have gotten away from that (pricey) and use Kiss My Face Patchouli moisture shave. Ahh, patchouli. Reminds me of college.

fishlessman

i hear clam shells work even better than a rock. puck brush and a moss scuttle to keep the lather warm


this ones late 1800's.

Jeffersonian

I use a Mach 3 in the shower and a cartridge lasts me several weeks. Maybe you need to change your soap/cream.

I can use an electric in the winter, but my skin's too soft in warm months and they don't tend to work well.

Rascal

I'm with you as far as shaving cream making a difference. Any of the "Edge" varieties work well for me and I leave it on for at least 5 minutes.

icemncmth

I have a few shaving toys!!!

Cpt'n Cook

Nice blade, I used a straight razor for a while in my 20s. I couldn't seem to keep it sharp enough, I still use a brush and soap though.

I do have pretty close to a full beard though :woohoo:

Semolina Pilchard

I tried a couple of high end electrics and found them to not shave close enough. Maybe they would work well for someone with a light beard.

Semolina Pilchard

I inherited my Grandfather's straight edge and all the accessories many years ago. I have yet to find the testicular fortitude to use it yet though.

BobS

I have been thinking about switching to a double edge. Is there anything I need to know about the razor itself, in terms of good/bad brands and adjustment characteristics?

AzScott

I don't know enough about them but I chose a Merkur double edge that is adjustable. I'm glad I chose the adjustable since it took about 2 weeks for me to adjust to it. I would also recommend a styptic stick in case you cut yourself. I did for about 3 weeks and now I never do. I also think the Feather blades are incredible compared to Merkur blades.