Urban and Outdoor Preparation, Product Reviews and General Discussions about Living near and Enjoying the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Straight Razor Shaving with a 3-Blade Disposable?

Is it possible to get a straight razor shave from a disposable triple-blade razor?  While the experience is definitely not the same; for, after all, there is a sense of manliness, nobleness and nostalgia associated with shaving with a straight razor; however, it is possible to replicate a pseudo-experience.  Now, I personally own several vintage straight razors which have been honed with a precision edge and each of these razors give the classic baby face closeness; so, don't misunderstand me...  I'm not saying that shaving with a disposable provides the same pleasure and experience.  Even so, I believe I have found a way to provide the same, consistent "close as a straight razor-like" shave with a disposable razor.  Especially when time and convenience is necessary, this technique is a winner.  And, there is a bonus from this setup, but first...

Here's the recipe for success:

Gillette Mach 3 (Sensitive) Disposable Razor
Shaving Brush
Shaving Soap
Soap Mug
Cotton Webbed Guitar Strap

The real secret and success to this setup is simply stropping the disposable razor with the cotton webbed guitar strap.  By stropping the razor 20-25 times before shaving, I have been assured a very close comfortable shave and dare I say, "as close as a straight razor-like shave".  So, here's the bonus...  I've been stropping and shaving with the same disposable razor since January 1, 2012.  With more than 10 months of using this technique, I am very comfortable and confident in recommending this method of shaving.  I purchased a 3 pack of the the Gillette Mach 3s for under $7 and having only used one razor, so far, I would consider this a real bargain.  Plus, there's no indication at this point that this same razor is anywhere near the end of its useful life.  By the way, this technique even works great for reviving razors previously used on your wife's legs.  So give it a try and let me know what you think.  ~Keep it Sharp.