Why Did Men Stop Straight Razor Shaving?

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00:00 Straight Razor Shaving: Introduction & History
After centuries as the preferred way to shave, why did men stop using straight razors? Despite their appearance, even cavemen were using primitive razors that somewhat resembled a straight edge razor although they were made from clamshells or shark teeth and not metal.
01:39 Why Men Stopped: 1. Safety Reasons
02:11 2. They're Intimidating
02:54 3. Learning Curve
04:15 4. They're Inconvenient
05:24 5. Additional Products
06:10 6. Time Constraints
06:53 7. They're Hard(er) to Find
07:18 8. They're Harder to Travel With
07:54 9. Straight razor perceptions
The appeal of a straight razor today won’t be for everyone. But if you value your grooming highly, and love the ritual of shaving, it’s a great option. The enthusiasts of straight razors often claim that the results are almost always superior. Hence, why many specialty barbers today opt to use them.
08:30 Should Men Use Straight Razors Today?
Ultimately, there are lots of reasons that men stopped using straight razors. And there’s a reason that safety razors have come to dominate the industry. It could definitely be argued that, in many ways, safety razors represent a massive improvement over many aspects of straight razors.
09:40 Outfit Rundown

[@makotofarzan]

We need a video on suspenders. The video should cover topics such as types of suspenders, how to spot high-quality suspenders, where to buy suspenders, etc. Thank you!

[@cccpredarmy]

reply to lift this comment up. GZ pretty PLEASE!

[@retrofinch7916]

Yes please. I love suspenders

[@Methodsaimon]

don't worry this channel will eventually cover everything you desire! so many videos and topics they cover so no doubt!

[@rykerbroughton3832]

​@@retrofinch7916me too

[@SikSlayer]

I would’ve assumed it already did exsist …

[@Shifterwizard]

Because I can't accidentally slit my throat while sneezing with the electric razor.

[@jacknikolai5416]

Smh 🤦‍♂️

[@fylinghigh459]

😂😂😂 good one that joke made my day

[@MKZ3003]

Hahahaha this joke made my day Edit: damm I didn't see the other dude say it. Point still stands

[@omaxshendy5732]

men in the past: let's fight with real swords just for fun men??(question marks) now: .......

[@PureGames007]

​​@@omaxshendy5732 "oh you don't want to play life or death games for the adrenaline when you could get the same Rush while playing video that also have like a 0% Chance death rate? Then you are not a man."

[@larsulrich2761]

Both straight razors and shavettes were shown in this article. The straight razor needs to be stropped and periodically sharpened whilst the shavette generally uses either a half of a DE blade or a special disposable extended length single edge blade. Since DE blades are commonly available in most places, you could travel with the shavette and then obtain DE blades at your destination. Without removing the paper wrapper break the DE blade in half then remove one half and insert in the shavette. This elimates all the sharpening, dressing, and honing maintenance that a standard straight razor requires.

[@gentlemansgazette]

Quite true! That being said, would you say there's much difference in the method of using a shavette vs. a straight razor?

[@allthegoodnamesareinuse]

@@gentlemansgazette There is an enormous difference between shaving with a shavette vs. a straight razor. Different angles, different techniques, different feel. Shavettes are a high degree more difficult to shave with compared to a straight. Steep learning curve, far less forgiving.

[@bunjier4041]

Traveling with a safety razor is too much hassle. Just bring a cartridge or disposable razor, like a Sensor Excel or Gillette Guard. You’ll live

[@wesleybarrett9502]

Yes I learned first on a shavette and knicked myself good twice and then used a straight razor and only knicked once after 6 shaves with one. Either will be go to learn on but a straight razor is more forgiving somehow

[@larsulrich2761]

@@gentlemansgazette I think the method of using a shavette is quite similar to a straight razor. The angles seem the same. That being said, the upkeep of a straight razor is what sours many people. In the old days people of means actually would have a collection of seven or eight straight edge razors, one for each day and at the end of the week you would have someone dress all your blades. On the other hand a shavette can give a fantastic close shave but there is nothing worse than a cheap "janky" shavette. The shavette needs to be well balanced and the disposable blade needs to sit evenly and securely. Off hand, three companies that make good shavettes are Dovo, Feather, and Parker.

[@kristofferhogan5082]

Straight Razor at least once a month at the barber, love the feeling during and after. So want to learn to do it at home. Best feeling, hands down!!

[@FeniksGaming]

It's fairly easy to learn to do it yourself but a bit of a PITA if you are in a rush

[@alexb3831]

Personally I like how it feels when the barber does it for some reason it’s really soothing to me when I’m getting my hair cut and face shaved

[@ozmobozo]

I can recommend getting a shavette and doing practices with no blade. Try to get all the lather with minimal angle.

[@mjevitomichael5809]

Practice with a balloon 🎈

[@greenmanalishi82]

It’s a great feeling after a good shave with a straight. I hated shaving for years with the plastic carts.They left irritating bumps and I would sweat in the Texas sun it would burn.Since I’ve been straight razor shaving it’s just clean and no irritation.

[@user-kz6zr8hd8r]

Been shaving with the same straight razor since 1973. Mostly use it to clean around my beard. It's a Friodur 451 by the J.A. Henckels Twinworks. Be careful learning to use one.

[@Molach101]

I've never had a better shave than with a cut-throat razor at a barber's shop. I find it helps with sensitive skin on my neck for example that always gets irritated by other razors

[@jakespeed6515]

I use one in conjunction with a safety razor 🪒 best shave ever so long as you use correct prep and saving cream. It’s cheaper also in the long run

[@julianshepherd2038]

It's a pro tool.

[@jrag1000]

The dude with the goggles can just shave using sunlight.

[@shahancheong9792]

Been using a cutthroat razor for over a decade. There's absolutely no other way to shave. *chef's kiss!*

[@patrickpettyjr.3134]

Agreed! I use a straight razor every day!

[@diavalus]

Same here, they are by far the best shavers.

[@zemorph42]

My hands are not steady enough for a straight razor, and the first time I had one used on me, I was very, very still, because I was terrified. This is out of my league.

[@AWriterWandering]

Is the chef named Mrs. Lovett?

[@acolddarkgentlebruh8205]

@@zemorph42 I occasionally shave with one, and I have nicked myself, and even occasionally sliced myself, but I have one with replaceable razors that you see on a safety razor, so perhaps that's why it isn't quite as intimidating. I can pretty much shave with no issues now though, and it didn't take me that long to git gud. Just have to have a lot of patience, and take your time

[@DenisZaharenko]

You should cover more decades in your "what men really wore" series. We want to see the 19th century as well

[@carltrotter7622]

AcademicSpartan?

[@DenisZaharenko]

@@carltrotter7622 That's what they call me

[@gentlemansgazette]

Stay tuned! - Preston

[@PrinceAlhorian]

I usually shave with a Wilkinson Sword safety razor, but once a month I treat myself and go to my favorite boutique barber for a haircut and hot towel shave. The gentlemen there use actual silver-bladed "Throat Cutters". They call their premium service the "Reaper's Kiss". An apt name, nothing is as morbidly exciting as feeling that edge glide over your throat. You don't feel it shave, you feel it glide and the exposed skin now uncovered from the hot lather feels as if a cool breath dances over it. This is of interest because of the mint/menthol oils they mix into the cream, you feel the blade glide, the "whisper" over your skin and when your done your cheeks feel as if they are brisked by a cool breeze. Sure, straight-edge shaving is not for the everyday man, but so are facials for women. It is a treat, and if you're shaved with silver or, if you are lucky enough, obsidian you also get to appreciate the tension of feeling your life being literally on the razor's edge.

[@thesplendor8654]

That was poetic.

[@finalmidnight]

Consider upgrading to a coated blade for a superior shave. I use Feather brand blades and find them far superior to the Wilkinson Sword blades available at my local supermarket. It has become clear to me that the major enemy of disposable razor blades is corrosion. Wet blades corrode quickly, especially at the edge, which is only a single crystal wide. A coated blade is much more resistant to corrosion, and as a result lasts longer and gives a better shave. Perhaps storing an uncoated blade in an oil bath might mitigate the issues, but I doubt it. Feather blades are made by a surgical instrument company that specializes in super-sharp blades. I prefer them over all others. YMMV.

[@PrinceAlhorian]

@@finalmidnight Alas Feather isn't sold here in South Africa, so Wilkinson has to do. The other option is Lion, but that equates to dragging a shard of glass over your cheeks.

[@ultraman1red]

I've been using a straight razor for about 35 years. For me, it produces the best shave. I used to shave at night when I had to be at work or early appointments. Once you learn the proper way to straight razor and honing skills, you'll never go back to disposable razor or electric shavers.

[@plonchyvideos7456]

Pity you didn't mention the Rolls Razor. It was halfway between a straight and a safety razor and was very popular with RAF crews during WW2 because everything was combined in one compact case.

[@gentlemansgazette]

It's a fascinating device, to be sure! Our friends over at Razor Emporium have produced some content on the Rolls Razor (linked below); perhaps we'll have to get our hands on one for a future video. -Preston kzbin.info/www/bejne/npTLdYyuqrysbNE

[@Agneloabreu9]

I quite like the "ritual" of using the tradicional razor!

[@vsmk8747]

I like that you guys pose for your own stock images and clips that fill in the video , rather than download stuff from online

[@grayrider8846]

Though my father used a straight razor, my first shave was in the military with a safety razor, I was thankful due time restrictions in the morning, Good video 👍

[@Ichigoeki]

I used to go to this Turkish barber back when I lived in Finland. The service was amazing and the quality excellent, but even still just the thought of having a stranger hold a literal knife against your throat never stopped being unnerving.

[@procinctu1]

My Grandmother was a nurse in the WW2 era and carried a self defense straight-razor when traveling alone… She was tough as nails.

[@didamnesia3575]

Because a smart man never leaves a sharp weapon around a dull woman

[@julianshepherd2038]

I bet a lot of women want to give you a close shave

[@killman369547]

That and risking cutting your ear or half your cheek off just for a shave generally isn't a smart idea. So i can see why straight razors fell out of fashion immediately as soon as a better alternative was found.

[@Shalashaska381]

I actually taught myself to shave with a straight razor when I was in my early twenties because I thought it would be neat to know how to do. It’s since become the only way I shave

[@mariusweber4990]

Such a pleasant presentation, really enjoyed this video!

[@DavidSinanan]

I'm one of those subculture wet shaving folks you mentioned. I've been shaving with a straight razor for about 8 years now. I really enjoy it. Once you get the hang of it, it doesn't take 30 minutes anymore unless you're going for a fancy shave. I recommend both straight razors and double edge safety razors to anyone. As mentioned, it's a bit of a learning curve, but it's totally worth it. There are internet forums dedicated to wet shaving where the membership will totally help/coach you through the process.

[@jenniferbate9682]

I love this series! Thanks xx

[@magnoliamike]

I started traditional Wetshaving late 2017 and i never went back to cartridges & foam I replaced that with safety razors, straight razors, shavettes , and single edge razors, silvertip badger brushes, artisan shave soap and cream and i really look forward to setting up my upcoming shaves for the week. It really becomes a community and a hobby you start collecting different types of vintage Gillette safety razors, different brushes, and you start to stockpile soaps year after year. There are a lot of KZbin channels and Facebook groups you can join in on the fun.

[@blindscience1701]

last time and only time I used an straight was back in 2003, while visiting my wife and still in the US Army, at the time, in Dublin. And wow, for nearly two weeks, I didnt need a shave. best shave I've ever had before and after. Just cant find them here in the states or they're to far for me to go too.

[@Linusgump]

The Art of Shaving sells them.

[@edenreyes4747]

Did you try looking at a flea market

[@wilhart1468]

Thank you for this video. I started using a straight edge a month ago (even though I bought it a year ago). I appreciate the points about caring for the razor. Those points I need to learn and apply.

[@christianbrady8585]

Once I went to a custom made double edge I fell in love. Now I'm looking to getting a straight soon.

[@deniz6358]

very well explained. thank you!

[@DmitriHiFi]

Wonderful overview of pros and cons of straight razor.

[@milton3224]

I shave daily (3 passes, full face) with a traditional straight razor. Have been doing so for the past 4 years. I'm too scared to shave with a "safety" razor where you can't see that single edge on your skin. I now give free straight razor shaving lessons in town, about 3 students per class, once every 3 months. They are very popular.

[@wallacepulley6755]

I use a shavette when im out of town and a razor my father passed down when i first started shaving. Got into the relaxation of it in my 20's.

[@patriot639]

A great video. Very informative.

[@davehHH1]

Great video! I have been straight Razor shaving for over 10 years now and wouldn't go back to a cartridge. The only other thing I use is a beard trimmer if I'm growing my beard. But nothing beats growing a beard and then taking it off with a straight razor. I think in the long run the straight razor has definitely saved me some money too

[@vicentegregorio6476]

I love to do my own straight razor shave and own several, so whenever I want to indulge in a great shave I go for it! 😊

[@fistacuff1223]

Great and informative video. Side note that may be the classiest blue suit I’ve ever seen.

[@JJHurst]

I switched from safety razors to a shavette 4 years ago, I also use a clear vetyver shave gel by floid. Cleanest shave I've ever had.

[@Rvictorbravo]

I started using a straight razor in 1976. Still have that one, but is worn down a bit from honing. I make my own soap out of lard, which glides very well.

[@sinisterthoughts2896]

I shave with a traditional hollow ground straight razir and found it was very easy to pick up. Also, if time is of the essence you can do a one pass shave. It won't be as close, but it is sufficient. There is more to them, but bot as much as one would think.

[@swissgator6312]

I've had it done a few times at the barber and use a DE safety razor at home. I prefer to keep it that way because of all the reasons you mention plus when I do go to the barber, it is a special experience.

[@areguapiri]

I switch between a shavette and a double edge razor about every few days. The shavette is definitely the most difficult, but it is the essence of manliness and masculinity! ...I will never go back to disposable razors, except for the occasional touch-up in difficult areas under the chin/jawbone.

[@conrad4852]

Fascinating! Had no idea straight razors were so old (in some form or another).

[@jonbobskunkworks]

I use a de razor every day. Edwin jaeger handle with a mule head. I enjoy the ritual of the safety razor with the speed. A good silver badger brush is hard to beat. Awesome suit!

[@Joseph-ic8xd]

I use a straight razor every morning before work. Probably the only thing I will use. Nothing beats sharpening them either. Super relaxing,

[@TieToter]

This is an outstanding video!

[@procinctu1]

Thank you, that was excellent.

[@jchannel8583]

There is a big and painful learning curve with a straight razor, however it's well worth the time and cuts in my opinion. Always suffered from razor bumps using the bics/Gillettes. Haven't had a single bump since I started using a straight razor years ago.

[@Rrgr5]

I used the shavette, basically a "straight razor with cartridges", I was quite good with it, didn't found that difficult to learn and the results were amazing, nowadays I use a cheap electric since I like the raw look on me, but sometimes I miss my good old shavette...

[@haveblue117]

I switched over to japanese straight razors (Kamisori) from safety razors and never looked back. They are the perfect tool to trim my full beard. As being said, they involve a learning curve for usage and sharpening. Costs are high at the beginning but will level off compared to the constant need to buy fresh cartridge razorblades for example. And of course they provide me with the aforementioned "me time" - a very relaxing and refreshening activity for sure! Highly recommended!

[@evinchester7820]

I learned to shave with my father's safety razor. Still have it too. He owned a Royals razor. I bought my own a few years back. Still use two and three blade disposable. But I have moved from using shaving crème to using shaving soap and a brush. I also own a straight razor, I've never used it.

[@bryannaing6316]

I started shaving with a shavette last year after needing to replace my safety razor when it randomly went missing. While it probably isn't the exact same feeling as a straight, I would guess they feel relatively similar. I am looking to upgrade to a straight at some point in the future. In my experience, the cut is much cleaner than any safety razor I've used, and I've had next to no razor bumps while using it. I've definitely nicked myself, and while isn't the best feeling, a cut that heals in a few days is much better than a bump that persists for two weeks. Unlike with safety razors, I feel no stubble when I rub my chin, and the overall process always feels cleaner. As for the inconveniences, you definitely nailed the dot with the process being longer than a quick shave. It makes sense, since going fast would be incredibly dangerous. I don't actually know how the entire shaving ritual works, and I've found using a high quality cream and aftershave have been sufficient for me, though I'm sure people who enjoy lathers and brushes can inform me otherwise. I happen to have a lot of free time (I'm a broke university student anyway) so I have no issue with the increased time requirements of a good shave, but I can definitely understand people who would value their time more. All in all, an incredibly informative video that raises great points!

[@zetroxela1884]

I love my safety razer. More convenient than straight razer, but I still get to use the brush soap and bowl that pair with the straight razer. The safety razer really is the best of both worlds.

[@jaysonpida5379]

Walked right by Mr. Todd's Straight Razor Barber Shop the other day.

[@ianmackenzie686]

Bic single blade disposable are excellent followed by cold rinse and a slash of Skin Bracer after shave. Four or five uses before discarding.

[@iconicmonster]

I use my straight edge atleast three times a week. I’m lucky that my facial hair does not grow that fast but it is very relaxing and slows me down in the mornings.

[@alvinmick218]

I actually bought a straight razor along with a stone and leather strap in the mid 1980’s and used it for 3 or 4 years. I got excellent shaves with it after navigating the learning curve but ultimately went back to cartridge razors for the time factor and the convenience. I totally concur with buying a quality straight razor if you’re inclined to experience it. Mine was a West German made razor but the brand escapes me. I enjoyed the video and subsequent memories it brought back. Well done 🥃

[@heyitsdross]

Maybe DOVO? RMK? Böker? All from Solingen

[@usmcMike05]

Last time I had a straight razor shave was from a Turkish barber while on deployment at camp Fallujah, Iraq, back in 2007… It was actually a very nice experience.

[@steveniemyer9288]

I started shaving with a straight razor three years ago and have never once cut myself (Knick on wood). With that I started with a feather artist club razor that uses proprietary blades and watched how to videos on KZbin. It took several months to become proficient, (I used a safety razor in combination with the straight razor at first) but the effort was worth it. I get the most comfortable shave from a straight razor. I then went to a real straight razor, the maintenance is much more involved, learning how to hone and stop has been the most challenging part. My recommendation would be if this is something you want to do, go with the feather artist club razor. Believe it or not it has safety features as well including special blades that are safer.

[@Nippeltitsch]

At 6:04 the Straight Razor looks like a "Gold Dollar W59". I have one, and i love it. If you start to shave with a Straight Razor, you will never change.

[@jippalippa]

Super cool video! That said I cannot even shave decently with a cartridge razor...let alone a straight edge.

[@Bolsonaro_em_Haia]

I have used shavettes a few times. For the most part it has been a worthwhile experience, particularly when I decided to remove larger amounts of grown beard right away - that is one area where safety blades really lag behind. I may easily return to the shavette at some point. It is just slightly harder to use than safety blades, and it definitely provides both slightly finer control and more soothing an experience. It just isn't faster. That said, safety razors are ok. Not always the best option, but ok. This video made me realize that there isn't much point (at least for face shaving) in having another person use them on our own face, though.

[@schizoidboy]

I can only think of a few times a barber used a straight razor on my sideburns but never for anything else, and I've only seen straight razors either in a smoking store with pocket knives and in a display that sold novelty knives.

[@leohuber1514]

I use a stilet with changeable razors and I think the most important thing to do is to take your time. For me is it like liddle spar day .take my time with the skin preparation, Get hot water some music I love. When I have time I enjoy it.

[@kennydesrochers3264]

I use a straight razor (shavette) about twice a week usually. I bought a vintage straight razor but I've yet to sharpen and test it. I prefer to shave with a straight razor, nothing beats the quality of the shave you get from it but ,with my sensitive skin, I couldn't shave daily with it. I guess with Jermyn Street shaving kit for sensitive skin I could try to do it more than twice a week but sometimes a quick electric shave is all the time I have for.

[@danielgodfrey4415]

I came across a German Barber straight razer set from 1885 at an antique store. Bought it.

[@glenn6583]

I bought a straight razor at an antique store when I was too young to shave. Man it was sharp! Never used one for a shave due to impatience and fear of cuts. Thank Mr Gillette, I have visited his Castle in CT. He must have been an interesting character. 😊

[@copperlemon1]

Different Gillette; the castle guy was an actor.

[@user-pt5fl8pj2p]

I have one. It's soooo satisfying to use.

[@XHobbiesPrime]

I still use one at home. Very nice for edging my beard. My dad still uses a safety razor.

[@karlforster4907]

A barber gave me a shave with a Straight Razor in the late 70's, best shave I ever had.

[@areguapiri]

Quite a while ago.

[@karlforster4907]

@@areguapiri indeed. I have a beard, so I don't know how it barbers even give shaves

[@user-vg1bk9ux6r]

I am proud to say that i have managed to somewhat perfect the art of straight razor shaving..... However i use a shavette as its more convenient to change the blades & cheaper! I do use this method occasionally as its time consuming! Out here in India just about all barbers (cheap & expensive) use a shavette!

[@sdrake8355]

I bought a Feather SS Kamisori and a Mühle Rocca. I love both of them. Unfortunately I’m 28 and when I clean shave, I somehow lose at least 12 years from my face. It gets rather irritating being IDed even for Aspirin (UK) so I invested in a Phillips OneBlade for stubble trimming too. That’s pretty much me covered.

[@Valpo2004]

Morning of my wedding I had one at a barber shop. It was mostly enjoyable but I admit that having a sharp object up against my throat made me a little nervous.

[@alexprach]

I use a Feather shavette or double edge razor with shaving soap every week or two, one of the advantages is there's less iritation with a single blade vs the consumables. Consumerable cartridge razors also cost more in the long term, and electric has higher iritation for me.

[@chrisblanc663]

You only shave every few weeks? Or you only do a slower paced shave every few weeks? Personally I’m just as fast with my DE as I ever was with the disposables. I am currently sporting a short beard, just a little more then stubble with a handlebar mustache, so I only take care of my neck and upper cheeks.

[@alexprach]

@@chrisblanc663 I find the double edges easier for neck. Only shave every week or two, it's a little weird to me that some guys shave every day as this makes shaving more difficult not less and is known to make the face skin more itchy. If you have sensitive skin like me try shaving less regularly. I also do a facial scrub before a shave but this is just a preference.

[@moonmanphoto]

I use one several times a week. My other razor is a Merkur DE; I use feather DE blades.

[@roberthoffhines5419]

I used to watch my grandfather use one in the 70s and get a little freaked out. I had a hairdresser that used one to clean up the back of my neck.

[@alecsgarden3901]

Tbh I moved from the cartridge razor to the safety razor awhile ago and am quite happy with the result but am still wanting to try a straight razor shave from a barber

[@Beardsandbars]

Before I grew a beard I was obsessed with shaving products and would occasionally treat myself to a straight razor shave. It was a meditative ritual. Now im sitting here trying to remember if I got rid of it or if it’s buried in a box somewhere.

[@brianjuergensmeyer8809]

I went hardcore into straight razor shaving several years ago - once you get the hang of it, it really is the smoothest shave you'll ever get. The problem was that I cut myself so badly as i was learning that it took several years for the scars go away. Once I learned, I finally stopped for a couple of reasons, both of which were mentioned in the video. The primary reason was the attention required. You cannot let your attention wander for a moment, or you'll nick yourself. Possibly badly. The second is the maintenance of the razor - I've tried, but I've never mastered the art of resharpening razors. My shave ritual now is almost the same as it was when I was using straight razors, except I have several very nice safety razors instead. This can't be overemphasized - shaving with a straight razor is utterly unlike shaving with a cartridge, electric, or even a safety razor. TAKE YOUR TIME. When your first unwrap your new straight razor, there's going to be a temptation to shave your entire face with it. Fight that temptation. Pick one area: maybe one cheek. Shave that area with the straight razor. Then put the straight razor down and finish with a cartridge or safety razor. Slowly work into it. You'll learn things about your face and the way your beard and mustache grow that you've never even considered before. It'll take time for those lessons to work their way into your technique. For those looking at buying a straight razor, the video also had another hint - beware cheap razors. As a rule of thumb, if you're buying a brand-new razor, you don't want to pay less than $100. You most DEFINITELY don't want to pay $20. As a starter, I'd recommend a Dovo 5/8. In my opinion, Dovo is the Toyota of razors - a good bargain investment that will run as long as you want it to. If you wish, you can also go after a "Shavette", a cross between a straight razor and a safety razor. Shavettes typically take either a full or a half or a safety razor blade as the cutting edge, crimped into a holder designed to look like a straight razor. You can see a nice shot of one at 4:48 up above. They work reasonably well, but they've always felt more clumsy to me than a real straight razor. Above all, take your time and have fun. That's the whole purpose behind the process.

[@gentlemansgazette]

Some excellent insights, thank you! 🤝

[@TrevorDodd-ev1sx]

I use a straight razor after I have had a shave with a safety razor. It gives a really good finish and is much easier to use without having too much stubble to go through.

[@bootnad]

I use a straight razor pretty regularly and safety razors too. If i have a full beard, i cant cut the hair very easily and end up struggling cleaning the hair out of a safety razor. With straight its a clean motion and then a wipe with a cloth. Works very well for beards like mime. If i have to shave more often as im in the miltary now then the convenience of the safety razor is perfered. Just depends on whst im dowing with my beard.

[@robertmartin3090]

A very good historical reference. Very nice

[@jamescalderon289]

I get it done at the barber for my monthly haircut. Kinda wanna learn though cause it does maintain my beard better

[@buserror]

Oh no, nobody told me that men had stopped using straight razors! I'm quite happy with mines, got a big collection, including loads of custom made ones.

[@SmallSpoonBrigade]

Clearly some people do, but it's a tiny portion of the shaving population that does. And with good reason, as long as you've got a steady hand and concentration you can use a straight razor successfully. However, a lot of men can't or don't want to deal with the risks or put in the time to learn. Personally, I've never found a method of shaving that does an appreciably better job of shaving. I'm not going to put in the time every day to lather up and take my ritalin so that I've go the necessary concentration to use a razor that isn't going to be appreciably better then a safety razor. Some people have smoother skin than others, and if you're skin isn't that smooth, then it doesn't much matter what you use.

[@jkatkat7950]

I actually just received my wifes Great Grandfathers straight razor (circa 1900-1920's?)...now..I've been fooling around with a shavette so I think I'm good to use this - after honing myself and a strop I'm getting 'ok' results...not sure if it's my technique or do I need to sharpen more....very few cuts so that's a bonus!!!!

[@ramazanselvi7399]

I learned to use the straight razor because I wasn't able to fully shave my beard in some positions with the safety razor. It wasn't that hard to learn but one must be careful in the beginning. Just start slowly to understand how the razor has to be holded safely, you will be good then. After you learn it, it doesn't takes that long either.

[@valkgh]

I am a 25 years old I started shaving with a straight razor when I was 20 before that I used a normal razor The difference is insane I have cut myself more times than I can remember though but it's worth it

[@kylehazachode]

I'm the oddball straight razor user who uses Head n Shoulders shampoo+conditioner on my face to save time shaving. I took the dive and invested in Feather about ten years ago and threw away all my cheap regular straight edge blade. Feather's blades are on the S tier all by themselves.

[@2FRESH-4U]

I’m good to learn things that require skill and knowledge ultimately elevating the act beyond the mundane

[@fujinmage8201]

why? because you can shave half asleep with a safty razor but with a straight razor you run the risk of wasting yourself.

[@jameshaury2716]

I use a double edge razor. I use Ivory soap to make lather with a shaving brush. It's a good shave and a lot cheaper than using a 3 blade or 5 blade razor.

[@jasonkelsey3441]

Merkur 34C HD Double-Edge Safety Razor for my daily shave. Occasionally I use a shavette. NEVER an electric razor. I do dream of owning a nice Thiers Issard straight razor some day.

[@konokukistune]

I've had a straight razor shave a few times, and used to get lineups biweekly before I just started buzzing my own hair with a guide to save money. I do own a straight razor I found at a gas station more for collection than actual use. but I have used it to shave arm hair off to check sharpness. As for my regular shaving, can't beat the plow from manscaped, quick, easy to use, and clean, I've tried other safety razors after getting tired of trying to clean and use cartridge style. i do enjoy going to a barber and getting a shave and haircut every now and then, normally before weddings or funerals or interviews

[@vnzstz209]

been shaving with a straight razor for a couple of weeks now. I only see advantages. No pimples, no ingrown hairs, no razor burn nothing. it's not for everyone that's for sure but I can absolutely recommend it.

[@samlincicome4904]

I have a beard, however I use a safety razor and a straight every day. The safety razor for shaving my neck and cheeks then a straight razor to clean up around the edge. On the week ends a lot of times I'll use just the straight. It just takes my mind back in time.

[@kthm4095]

Started using it like 2 weeks ago and still learning

[@areguapiri]

...like...?

[@kthm4095]

@@areguapiri roughly, like, about, around?

[@Just.A.T-Rex]

@@kthm4095do you like using it?

[@jdevin969]

My regular barber (in Bremen, GA) always uses a straight razor to shape and shave the back of the neck. He also does full shaves, although I’ve only ever had a beard trim and shave. Maybe when the weather warms up I’ll get my whole face shaved.

[@brandonh4527]

I used to use the straight razor almost daily and I am getting back into it as a normal option. It and a high quality DE safety razor has been the shaving experience ever. Now with new TSA guidelines, you can't even take a safety razor for carry on luggage (with or without blades) or you risk them confiscating it. At the end of the day. I really appreciate a straight razor shave the most and once you get good at it, it doesn't really take that much more time (if any) than a proper shave regardless of the shaving apparatus. You should still prep your face the same way and still use shaving cream / soap. The only thing I do for my straight razor that I don't do for the other ones is strop it, which I generally do the night before (and sharpen it ~every 2-3 months). Or you can just go shavette and negate that all together with less upkeep. And shavettes can be had for ridiculously cheap prices and have a very similar experience. Also, while the Safety razor does a pretty good job with this too, I think the straight razor does the best for your skins health and helps exfoliate your face better than any other shaving tool. As far as cleaning it, I just use rubbing alcohol from time to time, and put a light coating of oil on it as it is a carbon steel blade. You should also make it a point to not store your straight razor in the bathroom if you really want to help mitigate any potential for rust.

[@evinchester7820]

I remember as a kid going to the barber for a hair cut. They would use a straight edge to shave the back of the head and neck. Do miss the warm towels.

[@peterweston6588]

I used a shavette for a decade and then moved on to a straight razor. It took a while to find a good razor. A lot of straight razors that are sold are for show, not use. I ended up using a 120 year blade I bought on etsy for $60. It's been great.

[@michaelvanbenschoten2165]

I found a Victorian era straight razor in a thrift store about six years ago and restored it to functional use. It has been my main razor ever since.

[@Rune_Scholar]

I’m bearded so I only really trimp my cheek-line and neckline when needed. That said, I use a straight razor with replaceable blades like some of the ones shown in the video. Considering I only need to do so little and the blades are replaceable, it’s simple and gives a superior finish.

[@pallasathena1555]

I was told that the strop doesn’t sharpen the blade, it straightens it because your hair is as hard as copper wire and warps the edge. Barbers still sharpen their tools using sharpening flints etc,

[@djalixer]

I like host’s voice