I have a few questions for the experienced -
- does it take a lot longer to shave than with a multi-bladed disposable?
- was there a big learning curve? that is, did you find you cut yourself more often (or had to do it 2 or 3 times before you were good at it)?
- I've read in other threads where dudes (I think) were talking about using a real razor and saying they used far less pressure to shave, and just let the weight of the razor dragging down remove the hair. Is this the case? I'm afraid of being too gung-ho and shredding my skin the first time out.
- do you buy a couple blades, and just sharpen them every few weeks? if yes, with a whetstone, or something else, like regular old stropping with leather?
-The first couple times took me a while. Maybe twice as long as with a cartridge. Now it takes me a little longer but not much.
-There is a learning curve, but it came at the expense of time, not my face. I take my time and find that I get cut less with the safety razor.
-I have a Merkur handle and find that the weight of the handle is just about the perfect amount of pressure.
-I have tried a couple different brands of blades, personally I like the Dorcos. Try a few and pick one you like.
This is the procedure I recommend:
1. Get a handle you like. I have the Merkur Model 38, I like it a lot. My handle came with Merkur blades and they were perfectly good to start with.
2. Get a mirror for your shower (not absolutely necessary, but makes learning a lot easier. I can shave without it now but I still use it at home)
3. Watch a couple YouTube videos about using your razor. They'll give you some basic info, once you understand the general technique it's just a matter of finding what works best for your face and beard.
4. Try out your new razor. Do it when you have plenty of time. The trick is to not rush.