You will likely experience one of the most loved benefits of straight razor shaving at this point: feedback. In straight razor shaving, you have more control of this.)Īpply the razor at a 30 degree angle and pull down in short strokes. (With a double-edge razor, the guard/bar helps to do this for you. When your straight razor feels comfortable in your grip and you are ready to begin, reach across your head, tilt to the side, and pull the skin tight at your side burn. (Alternatively, some people prefer three fingers on the tang, which leaves the scales resting on your pinky finger to maintain the angle.) Your ring finger helps to hold the handle and maintain a nearly L shape. Place your thumb under the tang to complete the grip with your two fingers. Place two fingers (index and middle) on the tang (metal part of the blade section closest to the scales). It can be difficult to maintain a well-hydrated lather while you learn this new technique, so don’t be afraid to stop and reapply lather as you proceed.Ī straight razor is held at the juncture of the blade and the scales (handle). Make sure you create a nice protective lather - by mug/bowl/face. It should also be stropped (remove blemishes and minute nicks). Your straight razor should be sharp (honed).
In this Shaving 101 video, Jared gets his first lesson in how to go “cut-throat” from straight razor expert, Matt. If you’ve been wondering about this straight razor gig, then check out this how-to video from West Coast Shaving.
Shaving 101: How to Shave With A Straight Razor