Good call. I started out with a Bluebeard's Revenge and got a multipack of different blades. I found Derby blades to be a little too soft and they dragged more where my beard hair grows thickest.
I'd seen the same mentioned before, which was why I didn't initially order them - hopefully my Derby and Astra's should be here today or tomorrow - so will certainly give them a go first.
Got a matching Bluebeard's Revenge one... first time using it was an experience
First explanation I've seen that makes sense - will give it a goYou need to spend a few minutes stroking your face when you have a couple of days growth, which will be highly entertaining for anyone that happens to walk in at the time (so my wife said anyway). With the grain will feel smoother, against the grain rougher. Across the grain is just sideways to those. Don't expect any logic to it - WTG is down my cheeks, but up my throat and sideways on my neck. You'll get used to it
I'm still using Astra's, bought a box of 500 and see no reason to change. Rarely if ever nick myself. Get an alum block for after the shave, and a styptic pencil if you cut yourself.Just getting started in the world of DE shaving, as got a Bluebeard's revenge DE Shaving kit for Christmas.
As odd as it sounds, really enjoying DE Shaving so far, although 4 or 5 shaves in I'm still not very good at it
So far have tried Tesco blades (as the person who bought it for me forgot to buy any others - seemed ok), Shark Stainless (Too aggressive? cut myself quite badly), and Gillette 7'O clock Sharpedge (gave a close shave but lots of tiny cuts next day).
Have got some Derby, Astra SP, and Gillette Silver Blue on order, but didn't know if there were any others worth giving a go?
I have a Dovo straight razor for when I'm feeling really brave
I've always thought that the whole 'face prep' thing is overrated. All I do is splash some hot water on my face and then lather up. Perhaps my skin is old and leathery but that's all I've ever needed to do. No pre-shave oils, no soaking, nothing. Just a splash and go.
I really envy you. I have thick hair and not exactly rugged skin. I can really feel the difference between if I do what you describe, or if I i really give my beard hairs a good scrub with face wash or sometimes just hot water and giving it a good brushing with a stiff synthetic shaving brush. I also lather on the face for extra softening.
This. I don't use pre shave products, just shower, then lather up with (current fave) Proraso green, shave with a Merkur 34C with Astra blades and finish off with an alum block and Nivea post shave balm. I only ever use the blades for one shave then replace.
