“Oh god, Larsen’s talking about fashion, this isn’t what I read his columns for!” is what I imagine you’re probably saying after reading that title. Before you go running off to WizardChan or Omega Virgin Revolt or some other website for sexless wonders, let me explain why I am deviating from my usual repertoire:
I am commissioned to write articles about fitness, health, and nutrition. In my not-so humble opinion, personal hygiene is encompassed within those topics-particularly “health”-and is thus worth investing time into. Or in layman’s terms, the biggest muscles and leanest proteins in the world won’t really avail you much in the sexual marketplace if you’re an unclean, foul-smelling troglodyte—and having a movement comprised of schlubby basement dwellers won’t help us create the change we want to see in society, either. We’re supposed to be returning kings, remember?
On a similar note to that last sentence, the name of my own website is “The Barbaric Gentleman,” and both of those nouns are operative terms. In addition to the controlled barbarism I advocate in writing about fitness, martial arts, and channeling your anger into the previous two things, I also advocate genteel skills and interests such as being well read. And now, this article marks the first of what will likely be several future articles on the subject of personal grooming and hygiene, and perhaps fashion as well.
And it is now I arrive at the point of this article: you are likely shaving with a disposable piece of plastic crap and some thin foam that comes out of a can and smells like medical supplies. You oughta to stop doing that, and instead properly treat your skin.
(In speaking of “properly treating your skin,” and indeed in speaking about grooming and fashion as well, I am not saying you ought to be some perfumed ponce fussing over every enlarged pore and ingrown hair. I am speaking in terms of being in good health and not having skin that is dry, cracked, oily, or covered in acne—in short, a middle ground between being completely slovenly and being a dandy.)
The Tools
The first thing you’ll need is a proper razor—I myself use a safety razor that was originally my grandfather’s, but in the event you can’t find an antique, these razor blades are still produced by companies such as Classic Shaving. Many of these companies also produce cutthroat straight razors. Both of these types of single-blade razors will produce a cut that is closer and cleaner than any of the disposable garbage men today typically use, but the one you choose to use will depend on how you weigh convenience versus financial and environmental impact: the safety razor is much easier to use (installing blade cartridges versus having to strop and sharpen the straight razor), but the straight razor produces no waste at all beyond the original packaging, as opposed to the cartridge boxes the safety razor uses-both, however, cost less than the typical razors.
If you do decide to buy the safety razor, I would recommend a brand a step above the pharmacy generics, such as the Wilkinson Swords, as I find that these are sharper and hold an edge longer.
Secondly, you will need a shaving brush-note that these brushes are constructed in a certain way, with a certain density and shape of bristles, so I would advise you to not use the paint brush you used to put a coat on your walls the other day
Shaving brushes are made with either boar or badger hair, in that order of increasing quality and expense. Naturally, I managed to obtain a badger hair brush some time ago, and you shouldn’t have any problems obtaining one either—I purchased mine at a pharmacy, and if you can’t find one there, try a company such as West Coast Shaving
Third, and perhaps most importantly, you will need shaving soap—NOT shaving cream in a can, but a cake or bar of designated shaving soap that is placed in a mug and used with the brush. You will likely not find this in your standard CVS or Walgreens—and frankly, I have had enough of fish-eyed liberal arts majors give me a dull “Huh?” when I ask for shaving soap.
Instead, this can be purchased online. These soaps are made with varying types of lipids and oils, typically vegetable fats (the one in the link, which is what I use, is based in cocoa butter, to cite one example). As a side note, raw hunks of suet or other condensed animal fats can be used as shaving soap if nothing else is available, as referenced in Henry Stanley’s In Darkest Africa. No matter what you’re using, the soap is placed inside a mug. Purists will insist that a specialized shaving mug be used, I don’t think it’s necessary. Just don’t use a plastic cup.
The Technique
So, now that you have the tools for a proper shave, you have to learn how to use them. The first step is to moisten your face with hot water, and I don’t think you need to be told how to do this. Then, soak your brush in the hot water, and fleck off excess moisture into the sink. Using the moistened brush, begin swirling it around on the cake of soap, developing a thick lather. Once the lather has been developed to the desired thickness, begin spreading it on your face in a similar swirling motion. This will cause the hair follicles to stand up straight, and also exfoliate and nourish the skin.
Once the lather has been properly applied, you can begin shaving-using what I can only describe as a feather touch, begin doing up and down strokes on the areas that have hair. The mechanics are not particularly difficult-stretch the skin if you need to, and do multiple passes over the area until it is sufficiently smooth. The reason this technique section is so short? It’s simple—you likely won’t need to do that many passes, and you are also likely to get close and smooth shave.
Finish it off with a rinse of water, and some aftershave (I recommend Pinaud’s as an aftershave that both smells great and is dirt cheap). If you need more information on shaving, I recommend the 1905 book Shaving Made Easy which, much like the aforementioned In Darkest Africa, can be found for free by the good people at Gutenberg.
While the book is not really necessary, proper shaving absolutely is: for taking good care of your hygiene helps you make a better impression on people for all your daily doings. In addition, it instills discipline in you that can help you develop other skills and overcome problems in your life.
Great article Larsen, this is good starting point for those getting into wet shaving . I use old Gillette Adjustable Slim Razor H1 as my main razor. Its nice and mild on my skin and great shaver. There is one thing I would suggest for a beginner shaver is get sample pack of blades when starting on safety razor. You may find less irritation and better shave with certain brand of blades instead of blades that come with your razor.
For more resources for shaving:
I know it frown upon to link to AoM, but its great resource for beginner wet shaver
– http://www.artofmanliness.com/2008/01/04/how-to-shave-like-your-grandpa/
For those who are more advance in shaving and looking to upgrade there razors, browse upon the Badger and Blade for advice and reviews: http://www.badgerandblade.com
Frankly, I’ve always recommended Art of Manliness as something of a gateway for what we do here. I have no shame in admitting that without them, I’d likely not be here.
I have no personal experience with safety razors or a straight blade but I can attest to the effectiveness of a brush and shaving soap. I bought just a cheap set at my local grocery store and the difference in shaving was like night and day; less nicks and minimal (if any) irritation. One other thing I noticed that helps is, if you are using a razor blade with multiple blades, rinse it out after each and every pass. This will keep the blades clean and make shaving much easier. Then, for an extra boost of manliness, immediately dab on some aftershave and avoid re-enacting the cliche Home Alone scene.
Also, if possible, dry it out with a towel. It helps keep the blade sharp.
<<o. ★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★✫★:::::::!!be830p:….,..
I recommend shaving cream over soap for two reasons. Its much easier and quicker to get a lather and it is easier on your expensive brush – it will last longer. Never go cheap on a shaving brush.
I recommend Derby blades from Turkey (stupid cheap on Amazon and very sharp) or the Dovo shavette.
If you have the time in the mornings use a fixed blade straight razor. Normally though I save this for luxurious Sunday afternoons.
Keep the straight razor away from the nutsack, brother, except maybe luxurious Sunday afternoons.
I usually have my girl shave my nuts right after she drains them.
Agreed. Cut-throat singles are the way to go, especially if you rock facial hair. The precision for shaping you get is incredible. Chicks dig it.
Actually, douse your face with cold water immediately before applying shaving cream. (Closes pores.) Massage the cream on. A straight razor is hardcore, but unnecessary. A Gillette Fusion is fine.
I’d rather let a barber use a straight razor on me.
I forget the physics principle, but you should get a slightly better cut with cold water versus hot as well.
I still use Gillette razors since I bought my first Mach 3 razor in high school and I can vouch for their quality. However, shave soaps and brushes are pretty neat. For anyone living in Texas, your local HEB will carry Van De Hagen shaving soaps. Heck, they even carry the whole shaving kit.
https://www.heb.com/product-detail/van-der-hagen-shave-set/1851346
Personally I prefer to use the 5 blade razors – much easier than the straight razor. But to each his own.
5 blades? I suppose the next thing is to have them all rotating like a combine harvester…
that’s the fusion proglide
Damn they are expensive! You can buy yourself a new brush every month for the cost of those blades!
Yes, gillete is expensive. The schick quattro titanium is a more affordable option. They even last longer
The only reasons to use a cutthroat over a Mach3/Wilkinson.
1. It looks cool.
2. You (think you) sound cool when you tell people you use one.
Lol true. 3- Your time is disposable
Jullian Assange to release damning email of Hillary clinton. 14 hrs old news.
http://yournewswire.com/julian-assange-my-next-leak-will-ensure-hillarys-arrest/
Edit: Love the orange collar here. The Clinton Foundation, that’s where the dead dog lies buried.
That face shouldn’t be on toilet paper much less currency. Her and Merkel both deserve the chair. There will be fidelity and peace when their kind realizes the bliss that can be found when they stop fighting their natural inclinations. The bliss of the chair awaits them.
http://uscdn02.mundotkm.com/2015/12/gif-abuela.gif
I personally use Aleppo soap. It’s great for all types of skin and doesn’t leave it dry or irritated.
Been using a cutthroat razor since I was in my mid twenties. I’m now in my mid fifties. I was taught how to use and maintain the razor by my grandfather. The shave is unequaled by any other razor out there. They are extremely cost effective, as I have had my razor, mug, and brush (badger) for going on thirty years, and they have paid for themselves many times over. I went thru many brands of soap, and finally settled on Col Conk, not top of the line, but seems to work best for me, its also dirt cheap, and can be had in several scents.
As for keeping it sharp, I don’t use a standard strop. I use a strop block that I got in Germany many years ago. It is 11 inches long, not counting the handle, with a carborundum type stone on one side, two pieces of leather that you apply polishing compound to ( I use green and white), and a piece of black rubber for final polishing.
My one bit of advice, is to buy the absolute best quality razor, brush, and strop or block that you can afford, and they will last you for a lifetime.
No argument with most of what’s written. I use coconut oil in place of shaving soap though. And I still primarily use the old Gillette razors as I find them reliable enough.
I would wind up cutting my own head off with a straight razor, most of the time I can’t open my pocket knife without bleeding.Back in the day (when I still had a lot of hair on top of my head) I went to a local barber who used a straight razor to shave the back of my neck, it was amazing how smooth that was and how long it stayed that way.
Addictive feeling that on the neck
When the barber shaves the back of your neck, your hair stands up on end. It is somewhat mesmerizing and relaxing but still worrisome. Straight razors are right up there with toasters in being equally terrifying household items. The barber could kill you at any second. You must trust him.
I’ve witnessed my dog killing wild rabbits. The dog catches up to the rabbit and begins licking the rabbit’s ass end playfully. The rabbit sits there mesmerized like they’re in a barber’s seat only they have their rear end being licked by a large predatory animal. Then the dog begins slowly gnawing on the rabbit’s rear. It’s hard to tell where exactly the point of death for the rabbit is when they’re being chomped from behind. At one point, the rabbit gets a frozen look on its face when the large dog begins crunching on the critter’s rear leg bones, and then he slowly ingests the small rabbit in one mouthful. GULP. After eating a rabbit, that old dog would waddle around like he was drunk and then sometimes barf up the 3/4 chewed blob of blood and fir. I guess he just liked the taste but couldn’t take the heartburn. He was a damn flea bag but he was a good dog overall.
Christ, your dog is a fucking psychopath. Mine just got them by the neck, gave 2-3 strong shakes and ended it.
Good warning though. If after shaving my neck my barber tries to start eating my ass I’ll know to get the hell out of there.
At certain hairdressers you must pay extra for the ass-eating 😉
FinnShane,Thank You, I laughed for a good 2 minutes at your comment. The mental images I have of the Barber were too much.
I.would be into straight razors if I had healing factor like.Wolverine. until then I think of Sweeny Todd.
Lol. That was most descriptive and led me right down the garden path to the point of wrenching as I was munching my breakfast. You got me good.
Hang on a minute…. toasters are terrifying?
The cut throat razor is best for sure but I never do it myself. The barber does it every Friday afternoon.
Do they make Kratom shaving cream?
Yes and no. Shaving with kratom may not have the desired results.
http://i.imgur.com/LkPRrrI.jpg
As long as you don’t look like Chia Uncle Si, you’re golden.
When you’re on Kratom your skin knows when you’re shaving and will lather itself.
I’m in the completely slovenly camp, but this is inspirational.
From http://sharpologist.com/2013/03/shaving-for-life.html
Misleading, I keep my kitchen knives super sharp, and it isnt cheap in terms of time and good sharpening tools. Straight razor sharp is its own league.
Disposables $111 per year? Maybe if you are Bigfoot and shave your whole body daily. I shave my head and face 3-4 times a week and spend about $2-3 a month max on disposables. They must be comparing expensive disposables.
I use an electric to cut it short. Then use a disposable razor to smooth it out. No shaving cream used. I clean off the disposable with a brush and reuse it for 5 to 6 times before throwing it out.
Sounds shitty. Shaving cream (not from an aerosol can) is a huge step up. Some Body Shop cream and a Gillette Silver Blue would be like a Godsend to you.
DIY. Try this folks:
He uses a grinder though which causes some heat. If you belt sand or grind it fast enough and in hard fast strokes, the metal won’t overheat. I like sharpening razor edges with COLD water trickling on the spot or submerged in a washpan of cold water. Water prevents the stone from glazing.
This guy does a pretty good job finishing the edge dry:
Any stainless butterknife and even scrap spring steel pieces are good for making a wickedly sharp razor’s edge.
Or just have a properly groomed beard. Looks much more manly and required adequate testosterone levels to grow.
My husband is rocking the bald head and goatee look. *swoon*
Not too well groomed or you’ll look like that guy from Red Hot Chilli Peppers…
Do you guys ride a horse to work?You are faggots if.you dont.Riding a horse is what men do.Also dont forget to buy some Kratom and “Bang women in poor countries cause they dont mind betas”.
Teach me how to be like you Eric, you all inspiring supreme leader!
I thought you already had the shisophrenic son of middle esternern refugees for a leader!
Now get back to the kitchen faggots
To to what exactly, cook up your mum’s elongated beef curtains?
Get a grip erico, no one likes you and that why you are mad at society.
Avanti
Shit. Now I’m hungry for an Arby’s roast beef sammich.
Bit wierd imo haha, but Eric’s mum always delivers.
Seems that you are always hungry for some “beef sammich”, slang for black beef. Please keep it to yourself, it’s disgusting.
When you finally get laid, (with a woman) then you get to joke about it. It figures that you would know the slang for black dick, seeing as how you’ve probably seen more than one up close and personal.
When you get tired of the intellectual ass kicking that I’m giving you, all you have to do is admit that you’re a pussy, and the pain and embarrassment will stop. Even a pussy like you has to know his limitations.
Your IQ is room temperature, that is painfully obvious. Go find some men and tools to help you feel like a man, as you have repeatedly stated you need. Pathetic.
If your Beta lifestyle ever lets you live to a ripe old age, you will understand that sometimes the old ways are the best ways. The newest tech crap to come down the pike isn’t aways what it’s advertised to be. But you know everything, so go ahead and piss away money, and ignore the advice of your elders who have already been there and done that.
Hardly a beta. More like a simp who has yet to accept that he loves taking it in the face.
And in the ass.
The title of this article should be HOW not WHY to shave with a straight razor. I’m curious of the advantages and disadvantages. Personally, my neck gets irritated when I shave with my Mach3 and turns red, and I can’t seem to get certain areas all that smooth. It’s fine enough to look at, but even a couple of hours later, it’s abrasive and girls complain about it. I typically go without shaving for maybe 5+ days before a date, because that “early beard” phase is supposed to be one of the most attractive to females and it is just long enough that it begins to soften and not hurt their face.
Is there more or less irritation with straight razor?
I did have a barber do this to me once (shave and a haircut in Latin America for around $1.45 earlier this year) and while I was a little nervous and worried about the hygiene at a $1.45 haircut place, in case my skin was nicked, I have to say it was the best shave of my life and I felt amazing for the next 2 days.
I think I’ll start with simply using a good brush and shaving soap, and see how that goes before moving on to a straight razor. Also, what about maintenance? Don’t you have to sharpen the blade?
And no one ever taught me the purpose of aftershave.. does it do anything other than make you smell nice? I’ve never used it. And thanks for the article, I actually love this kind of stuff, even if I don’t adopt it personally, I like learning and being aware of it. And my local grocer now sells that Indian face stuff Forney wrote about.
The cuts and abrasions happen from the razor getting clogged. Just wash the blade once every 5 seconds worth of shaving. Leave the water running and rinse the blade under it, don’t make a pool in the sink and swish it out.
The purpose of aftershave (aside from making you smell like a chemical factory) is as an antiseptic, for the micro cuts which result from dragging a sharp blade over your skin. This is why most aftershaves contain alcohol. Personally I don’t use aftershave since they give me a migraine, and coz this
Spicy,
It’s easy. Make sure the razor is sharp, just a few strokes on the strop or block will do. Face prep is the most important thing. That hot towel you see in western movies is real, it helps soften the beard, and relaxes the skin. I just shave in the shower, after I’ve been in for about 5 minutes, then the beard is ready to shave. Add a liberal amount of soap, and have at it. You may have to experiment with how you hold the razor for your own comfort, and you may find that you won’t need to use short repetitive strokes. I can go cheek to chin in two, and throat to chin in one, but I’ve been doing it for thirty years. NOTE: When you are a beginner, use of a mirror is imperative. I no longer use one though, as I now know my face.
For me, there is less irritation with a straight than with one of those shitty disposeables or one of the replaceable blade types. The feeling of a freshly shaved face with a straight is different from other razors, you feel cleaner, if you get my drift, and it just seems to make you feel better, and it most definitely does NOT add a substantial amount of time to my morning preparations.
Aftershave is not necessary, it’s more of a personal choice. I can’t stand the smell of most aftershaves, so I just splash a little cold water on my face, or just turn the hot off before I get out of the shower. Years ago, there was a company that marketed an aftershave that they claimed smelled like money, it actually was the smell of leather, but as money was carried in leather wallets, they got away with it. I used to like that, but got away from it, and don’t know if it is still sold.
Maintenance is easy also, just a few strokes on the strop or block before and after shaving keeps it sharp, and make sure you dry it after you’re done. The brush you just rinse clean and shake off the excess water. But most important of all, is that you need to learn HOW to use the strop/block. Youtube has some good tutorials, it’s too involved to write about it, and it does take a little practice to get the feel down. DO NOT pay attention to that crap you see on tv about the barber slapping the razor back and forth super fast on a strop that isn’t stretched tightly, that will destroy your edge; that’s why I use a block. (check my post a few posts below this one)
EDIT: I used to use a safety in the USAF, and tried the disposables, but they always caused irritation/razor burn/redness, until my grandad clued me in on the straights.
I decided to try my hand at straight razor shaving a few years back, bought the razors and all of the accoutrements to go with them. After a few minor disasters, I enjoyed doing it that way. I kind of got out of the habit, work, in a hurry and all. I actually do miss it and will start back to it again. I’ve been using a brush and shaving soap for years, long before I bought a straight razor. I’ve always liked that.
Be safe and God bless, good man.
Who has time for a daily straight razor shave? Merkur 39c slant, Astra blades, the Body Shop brush & cream, and shave in the shower. Astras arent even the sharpest, but the slant does something with it that makes it smoother than a Silver Blue. Brushes are overrated, Ive tried countless setups yet this is my go to.
Brushes are only overrated if you use a cheap Body Shop one…
Ive bought the expensive badger hair ones, they failed to outperform the $11 Body Shop synthetic and shed hair like an old woman.
LOL! They do shed hair but you’ve got to treat them right (you know, like how you treat the ladies…). The really expensive ones I have had trouble with, in the performance department. I find that horse hair and best badger work best for me but it depends on your face, lathering style etc.
I have used the Body Shop one and for a synthetic its not bad but natural hair holds water better which should provide for a better lather.
What soap are you using?
Harold, you can’t use a cheap POS brush. All brushes will shed until “broken in” but after a few weeks, that will stop. I have found that badger works best and lasts longest. If you’re serious, purchase the best equipment you can afford, don’t skimp, and it will last for years.
Link to decent brush?
http://www.colconkproducts.com.
Good quality, ranging from affordable all the way to outrageous. I’ve been using the brush, mug and soap for the past 15 or so years. Cant speak for the razors, I’ve had mine for 25 years, give or take, that I got in Germany. Soap is a personal thing, I have found that glycerine based soaps work best for me, but there are other kinds out there.
I don’t use soap very often but when I do its with a cheaper horse hair brush and normally use Arko shaving soap or Classic Shaving’s own brand.
Normally I use Geo F Trumper shaving cream though, with my badger hair brush.
A Muhle R41 is nearly a straight razor, it’s a DE with no guard. Does a great job, but is unforgiving and can irritate with aggressiveness. My old lady will shave her legs with my Merkur slant if it’s around, to me it is forgiving and efficient. Slants have some misguided fear as butchers on forums.
I’ve been using the slant for years. It depends on your face, skin, hair thickness and so on. I had to go for the slant because the standard razor wouldn’t work. For someone else though, that might be suicide…
I think people who cut themselves with slants need help in the technique department. It seems to be more forgiving due to the twist of the blade, if an angle is bad there is less of it presented.
Local barber uses a straight and brush, works like a champ. Old school, old man, belonged to an actual union of barbers decades ago. Check out if you have an old timer that does the same in your area. Better to pay local than some chain of investors who think putting in a tool drawer and some bimbos who don’t know their asses from a hole in the ground is what men want. Do it right, do it old timer…then try for yourself.
Excellent article.
I think it’s been mentioned on this website before.. the local barber was the male gathering place, analogous to women going to the hairdresser. Guess which one has all but died out :
I’m at the barbershop every week my brother… Do they still have hairdressers?
Those places are dying out fast. The last time I went to a barber shop for a shave, the barber used a disposable. I had a girlfriend once who wanted to shave me with my straight, but I’m not about to let ANY woman near my unprotected throat with a sharp instrument.
Teeth are sharp instruments.
Check out a Turkish barbers. Probably the finest barbers in the world.
If the beard grows naturally, isn’t being shaven the actual “fad”? Beard for thought.
All things being equal, shaving with a straight razor gives you bad-ass street cred that is unmatched. In fact simply being clean shaven is the new “alpha”, since every limp-wristed hipster and “i need feminism” cuck sports a beard nowadays. (Probably because their precious skin breaks out in uncontrollable acne if it goes near a razor).
If I was blessed with a well-defined jawline, rather than more chins than the Hong Kong phone book (and I’m not even overweight), I’d go clean shaven. As it is, it’s either a goatee or “chopper”, if I don’t wanna look like a soft pushover.
“In fact simply being clean shaven is the new “alpha”, ”
no….no its not. real men have facial hair.
Too many betas today are trying to act alpha by bearding up and wearing flannel shirts, jeans and boots. It’s a fad that fucks things up for the rest of us.
while i totally get that….its still no excuse to go the womanly clean shaven beardless look. its your God given right to sport facial hair.
if they can damn near show their complete ass and tits in work places….you can have facial hair. and if you work retail? thats great when you’re 20….but well it shouldnt be a career choice.
Yes it is, personally, I wear a ‘stash. But if you’re bearding up and wearing a costume, so you can act like a lumberjack or a cowboy, then your a fuckin’ candy ass in serious need of lessons on how to be a man.
well yes i get that point and i see others are making that point in defense of going clean shaven.
my point was never that as you can act like a beta jackass no matter your appearance….it was just simply women and children dont have face hair….men do. so wear some face hair.
I’d argue there is something psychologically damaging to cutting your face hair every day and even emasculating. like the mighty lion and his mane….it’s their to show the rest of pack whos fucking boss and its glorious to behold. also like manes, most mens facial hair is rarely the same.
If you were a real man there would be nothing that could fuck that up for you. Relying on other men to aid you in being one yourself makes you the beta you incessantly call others.
Oooohh, consider me schooled little man. Let us know when your balls drop, we’ll get someone to show you what they are for.
There you go again, with your need to have other men define what being a man is for you. I define my own manhood, I don’t need your, obvious beta, help. Now go file a tax return or something, “little man”.
I’m retired at 55, what’s your excuse diaper rash? Keep the laughable comments coming, you have no idea how many real males you are providing entertainment to. If you ever grow up, you will understand what masculinity is.
No doubt you have filed all your life and likely still have your “tax records” for your master. You know I’m right, don’t lie, as usual. That makes you a pussy. That’s why you keep calling others “pussy”, it’s projection and deflection from yourself at the same time. Go play with your straight razor to help you fell less the pussy. Good luck with that, beta.
Yes, I have, and I do, because it’s not only the law, it make sense. Filing and keeping records doesnt make you a pussy, it makes you smarter. When you go through your first IRS audit, you’ll figure it out. It’s why I retired when I was 50, and why you will still be a wage save until your late 60s. Try harder cupcake, you’re still losing the fight.
I shave every couple weeks mostly because at length food gets in it and it grows into my mouth which is annoying.
Taxes aren’t law. They are voluntary as stated by them. We are coerced by force. That’s not manly it’s silly and beta as hell
as I’ve stated 1000 times now….it isnt trimming or keeping your face hair that is unmanly….it is not having it all, while a mustache is great, full facial hair is better if you are able.
thats my point really. or yes face hair can get unruly and in the way.
Shaving it means I need to tend to it less often. But I use sideburn trimmer so it leaves stubble. What I don’t get is the close shave obsession.
You file, I haven’t for 20 years and not word one from It’s Really Slavery. You lost a long time ago, slave. But keep believing your own lies to help you cope with being a common slave.
Actually both are true. Real men have clean shaven chins and well groomed moustaches.
The goatee is a great middle ground as is well groomed stubble. It all depends on your style…
I think the reason why so many pussies have beards nowadays is because they’re desperate to have any link to masculinity at all, and growing a shitty beard is the easiest way to go about it.
Fortunately for me I have a very strong jawline and have opted for the Errol Flynn mustachio in what can be described as the Zlatan Ibrahimovic facial hair ensemble; I am a handsome devil if I am being totally modest.
Aa
I used to use a straight razor to shave. It is by far the most superior method of shaving IF you do it right. It also has a lot of ups and down.
UP – by far the closest longest lasting shave you can get.
DOWN – to hone you skills using a straight razor will take about 3-4 weeks and result in many many cuts. Fortunately the cuts tend to heal in about 24 hours, but you could end up going to work looking like you were in a knife fight. If you start definitely do so at the beginning of a long weekend.
UP – if you want to get your morning going right nothing like the adrenaline high of holding a razor sharp blade to your throat.
DOWN – compared to a modern multiple blade razor or even an old school safety razor it will add a significant amount of time to your morning prep. Time will vary of course, but expect to spend an average of an extra 15-20 minutes every morning.
UP – Extremely low cost per shave over the long run. But….
DOWN – Getting a quality start up is going to cost you a few hundred dollars. A quality straight razor is going to be around $150-$400. A quality badger brush is around $30-$50. A stand and soap bowl can be from $10-$75 depending on if you are trying to match bathroom decor, etc.
DOWN – If you “manscape” using a straight razor is possible, but be carefully (especially around your bits and pieces fellow man). I used it on my chest a few times but would not recommend it. You should probably stick to the disposable for body shaving.
DOWN – If you travel a lot, although it is legal to keep a straight razor in your luggage, expect some hiccups. Also if you are on the go when you travel the extra prep time in the morning can be a suck.
Ultimately, after about six months of straight razor shaving I went back to a safety razor for daily home use and a multiblade disposable for on the road. I recommend you give it a try though.
Very good article , nice to see other people going back to the classic ways. I shave with a safety razor since about 10 years and i will never look back. I have a very coarse and curly beard growth. I use Gilette Platinum blades and they are so frickin nice , They cut the hair very easily and i can use 1 blade for about 5 shaves. I pay 1 buck for a pack of 5 so it`s dirt cheap and i highly recommend them.
Been trying to find some Feather`s blades , does any of you have any experience with them ?
dont see the value in shaving at all really. trim the facial hair now and then yes….but shaving? why not shave a lions mane or clip the peacocks great tail?
facial hair is an external sign that you are a man that doenst require you to break public indecency laws.
stop taking a knife to your face everyday.
Yeah you probably don’t cut your hair or shower either…
hardly the same thing and you know it. notice i said trimming facial hair….but cutting it all daily? go get breast implants then.
Cutting your hair, shaving, showering… its all part of the grooming process my brother…
its like you bums lack reading skills. and totally missed the point
You never tidy up your lines? Must look like a bum.
Before I shave, I always take my daily dose of Kratom with a 1/2 glass of pure, static free, non-alcoholic, ion free, carefully selected bottled water.
It’s got all the body needs…
….LYTES !
Yeah… you can do all this stuff… or be a real man and grow a beard.
The problem with straight edge razors is that they are quite expensive. Don’t make the same mistake I did and buy a cheap one on Amazon that cuts less than my chef’s knife.
Here we go again on advocating outdated technology just because my grandpa used it and he was a real man. There is no technical advantage on using a straight or safety razor over cartridge. Blades are cheaper but that is about it. Straight razor is dangerous and need proper care & maintenance while the safety razor can cut you easily too if not careful. My grandpa shaved with a safety razor because he did not have money and had to support 8 children; but once circumstances improved he got himself a Mach 3 and never looked back.
Dude, seriously? Maybe you should go to an electric if you can’t tell the difference between a shave from a straight, safety, and electric. As I have said before, sometimes the old ways are better, maybe not for time management, but for personal satisfaction, the feeling of a shave with a straight can’t be beat.
I suggest you come back to my comment and read it carefully. I don’t mention any electric shavers. Now if you feel you get some manly satisfaction from doing all the shaving ritual the old way then to each his own. But to say the straight razor is better than a shave from a fusion pro glide well…if it is a closer shave indeed, it is by a very low margin and not worth replacing it for daily usage
Yeah, this coming from a beta who complains about someone using “outdated technology” Are you going to lecture us on what toothbrush we should all use now? And the shave from a straight beats your fusion pro hands down. You’re just too lazy to learn how to properly use a razor, pal. Your problem, not mine.
Resorting to insults when someone disagrees with your opinion. Inabiliy to use logic. That is the sign of the social justice warrior
Not an insult unless you perceive it to be one. Just fact from my view. When you come across with your holier than thou insults/comments, you can expect some backlash, junior. Deal with it
Well beta JMV uses a girly straight razor because you’re just too lazy to learn how to properly use a manly razor, pal. Your problem, not mine. I use a broken whiskey bottle, circa 1934, round bottle, not square, those are for pussies. For personal satisfaction, the feeling of a shave with a whiskey bottle can’t be beat.
Let’s see, calls guys beta, junior, pal, etc, has a gun pointing at others for an avatar ??? Might you be compensating for something, just maybe?
What, you feel threatened little guy? I’m responding to idiots who think that new technology is the end all beat all of civilization, and who look down on those who prefer to rely on older tried and true ways of doing things. I never said that using a straight is mandatory to be a man, I said that for ME it works better, and I gave some advice on how to use it. There were some sissies who took umbrage to that and decided that they would challenge me, and they lost. deal with it.
You are condescending and make personal attacks from your own insecurities. Pretending you were simply sharing your joy with straight razors and giving advice on use is a huge load of BS. Your diatribes are rife with attack and insults. They simply disagreed with you, you went on the attack calling them idiots, beta etc. You are very offended because others disagreed with using your precious straight razor. Clearly, you are the one feeling threatened. Even in this comment you call those who don’t use your straight razor “sissies”, why? Because they don’t use a straight razor, obviously. They didn’t give you valid cause to name call. Proving my point.
Modern technology kicks ass on just about everything “older tried and true”. I can’t think of a thing it doesn’t, straight razors sure as hell aren’t it. Disagree, name something that isn’t made better now? It may exist, but it isn’t common. I’m sure you still use a horse for primary transportation and wear leather sandals, right?
BTW, have you ever actually used any of the modern shaving implements you claim don’t compare to your straight razor, such as the fusion pro glide?
Yeah, I see that my response got deleted. Seems some sissies here can’t handle truth when it steps up and bitch slaps them across their two day old neck bearded faces. Pussies.
S’ok though, you all still provide hours of laughs with your limp wrested attempts to show what manly men you think you are, even if my posts are deleted by some slack jawed faggot, my buds and I still get to laugh our asses off at you.
Your favorite sex position? Doggy, so you and your “buds” can laugh at the comments at the same time. You’re a pathetic excuse for a man. Your insecure ramblings reek of it.
Oh yes, now the homo accusations come out. What’s wrong, cupcake? Am I frustrating you? Threatening your imagined manhood? Get back in the shower, and shave your legs for your boyfriend cupcake.
Compensation? That’s female feminist talk son.
Straight razor probably feels better than using a sideburn trimmer to shave your beard which is what I do.
Isn’t necessarily laziness if we don’t want to spend time learning that particular skill.
A cheap safety razor easily cuts better than a straight razor, is easier, and safer. It maintains the proper cutting angle that the steadiest hand with a straight cannot possibly. But if it feels like it cuts better because you like the idea of using a “straight razor” then do what makes you feel good.
What is all this stuff about “safety”? You’re talking just a like bitch.
Which is easier depends on your skill with each. I use both because of time issues. Safety razor before work and straight on the weekends when I have time.
Go file your slave confession form, aka tax return. Who’s the bitch? Bitch.
This.
I have a straight razor, and I use it maybe once every 6 months, mainly for nostalgia. However my electric does “almost” as good of a job but is 10 times faster with no mess, great for being on the go. I also have the ol gillette disposable safety razors in my travel bag, they work just as good as the straight razor.
Those that think what razor a guy uses or if he has a beard or not defines his manhood sound like metrosexuals.
Yeah, my guess is that there are some economical interests to sway men to use this or that shaving method. There are now websites and entire youtube channels on how to shave with straight razors. Even though there is no advantage from a practical point of view.
Yeah you are likely correct in that assumption. I noticed a similar thing back in the early to mid 2000’s regarding the straight razors with an influx of advertising and articles about them. I have nothing against them, or anybodies personal preferences in shaving apparatus. I’m just not fond of the “you aren’t a real man if …” on so many things lately. That kind of statement is usually something that comes out of a feminists mouth lol
What are these economical interests you refer to? Can you explain?
Once every 6 months? No wonder it takes you so long.
I have used cartridge razors and they are expensive junk. They become clogged with hair and cream and give you major razor burn. I have none of these issues with straight razor shaving. Dangerous? Come on man only a little bitch would say something like that. Check yourself.
Dude, if you have to resort to ad hominem attacks to prove your point then you have no point.
Why don’t you figure out what an ad hominem attack is and then try again.
Back in the 1950’s, I always enjoyed watching my grandfather shave with a blade & brush & he was already in his 60’s! On occasion, he’d go to a real barber shop & have it done by a pro! By the way, barbershops are going the way of telephone booths & white side wall tires.
Also, he’d finish up with a few splashes of bay rum. The good ole days!
I was introduced to the “mug & brush” while serving on submarines. We were not allowed to use any form of aerosol sprays on submarines. They didn’t “react well” with some of the atmosphere-control equipment.
Spoiled me for life.
I haven’t used a can since ’78.
Interesting…not. The “benefit” of the straight razor is to say, “I use a straight razor.” There is NO comparison to shaving with a modern blade while in the shower. None.
“Man how should I reach my readers? I know, I’ll insult them and suggest a meme razor marketed to low self-esteem vapers”
Brilliant
i use a Gillette double edge safety razor. my dad gave it to me long ago and one day i decided to try it. i get the generic blades at my store but they are made by persona and from the usa so i’m supporting american jobs and they are good blades as i can get about 5-7 shaves.
for the price of a single mach 3 cartridge (about $3.50) i can get a cartridge holding 10 blades with a slot on the back to dispose of the worn out blades. it is FAR cheaper than the mach 3 or even more expensive fusion.
i do plan on getting some shaving soap and i have heard good things about taylor of old bond street so i’m going to order some of that and get a brush too and give it a go.
Why isn’t the author pushing model T’s and spats? I shave in the shower with a double blade disposable safety razor and water only. No straight razor is going to give me a closer shave, I don’t care how much shame and condescension the author uses to convince me either. All the convolution he suggests is a complete waste of time and money. If I drew blood once a year it would be a lot. A straight razor could never be that bloodless, I don’t care how many guys pretend they have used them for decades and never cut themselves, that’s BS.
He’s talking about shaving a beard, not your legs, cupcake.
Yes, you learned that the hard way when you cut off your genitals experimenting with your gender confusion. I don’t need a warning though, I know more about manhood than you do, obviously.
Yes, that’s why you post derisive comments about outdated technology on an article where the author is merely explaining the benefits of older tech. You’ll notice that I never made an attack comment until you snowflakes started your shit, cupcake. And don’t forget to get your bikini wax for your boyfriend, while manscaping.
I can see that I’m getting to you, by your erratic responses. Here’s a tip: You’ve already lost the argument cupcake, best to acknowledge that you’ve been beaten by a better man, and just give up. But you’re too arrogant and proud, so you’ll keep on with your juvenile comments, providing more laughter for the real men on the site.
It also just makes you feel better, which positively affects many facets of your life.
Why not just use an electric shaver? If you shave everyday they work fine.
A good article.
But an honest question – why not just use a Double Edged razor? They’re easier to use, and the effect is the same.
If its just the coolness factor, then I understand – but I have always found my routine of water -> shaving cream -> DE shave is quick, easy and gets you a better shave than any machine ever will.
Why shave at all?
That last pic looks like Micheal Imperioli(Chris from the Sopranos).
I dabbled with straight razors several years ago. Huge pain in the ass. No matter how careful I was or how slow I went, I ended up with cuts and irritation.
I shave with a good quality double blade disposable now. No shaving cream/soap or brush, just water and the mineral oil I soak the blades in in between uses. Works fine and cuts close. No irritation, so no need for aftershave.
Someday if I live alone maybe. Until.then I will continue with electric razor.