Everything You Need to Know About Using a Straight Razor for Beginners

For many people, shaving is an art; a relaxing few minutes of the day and an experience to be enjoyed. Straight-razor shaving is a craft that many shaving enthusiasts strive to perfect, not only to give them the closest and smoothest shave possible, but also to spend time on a form of self-care that leaves them looking and feeling great.

A straight razor is a type of razor with a blade that can fold into its handle. It is also known as a cutthroat razor or open razor. Unlike modern razors that use disposable blades, straight razors are designed to be honed and sharpened after repeated use. They have a long, sharp blade that can be made of various materials, such as carbon steel or stainless steel, and are often sold with a protective leather sheath.

Straight razors were once the most popular tool for personal grooming and shaving but have been largely replaced by disposable razors and electric razors in recent decades. However, they still have a following among traditional wet-shavers who appreciate the skill and craftsmanship required to use them effectively.

We'll break down everything you need to know about straight razor shaving!

Why should you use a straight razor?

Besides the cool points you get for being able to say you have mastered the straight razor shave, using a straight razor instead of a cartridge razor can offer many other benefits.

1. Closer Shave: Straight-edge razors are designed to provide a closer and smoother shave than other types of razors, with the ability to adjust the blade angle for a more precise cut.
2. Cost Savings: Although the initial cost of a straight razor may be higher, it can be more cost-effective in the long run than continually buying replacement cartridges for a cartridge razor or safety razor.
   
   
3. Environmentally Friendly: Straight razors don't create the same amount of waste as cartridge razors, which are often disposable and end up in landfills.
   
   
4. Traditional Experience: Shaving with a straight razor can be a more traditional and personal experience, offering a sense of craftsmanship and tradition that is not present with a cartridge razor. When you master the skill yourself, you won't need to see a professional barber to get a high-quality shave experience.
   
   
5. Improved Skin Health: The single blade of a straight razor can help to minimize skin irritation and razor burn compared to multi-blade razors, which can cause irritation. Once you get the hang of using a straight razor, you'll be able to say goodby to razor bumps for good!
   
   
6. Customization: With a straight razor, you have the ability to choose the blade, handle, and accessories that suit your preferences and needs, whereas a cartridge razor typically comes in a set configuration.
   
   

Parts of a Straight Razor

The main parts of a straight razor are:  

1. Blade: This is the sharp edge of the razor that does the cutting. Straight razor blades can be made from various materials, including carbon steel or stainless steel, and are typically long and narrow.
   
   
2. Point: The point is the tip of the blade, which is typically rounded for safety.
   
   
3. Spine: The spine is the back edge of the blade, which is thicker and less sharp than the cutting edge.
   
   
4. Tang: The tang is the part of the blade that extends into the handle. It helps to balance the razor and provides a grip for the user.
   
   
5. Scales: The scales are the handle of the razor, which can be made from materials such as wood, bone, or synthetic materials. They are typically attached to the tang on either side of the blade to form the complete razor.
   
   
6. Pivot: The pivot is the mechanism that allows the blade to fold into the handle. It typically consists of a screw or pin that holds the blade in place and allows it to rotate.
   
   
7. Pin: The pin is a small metal rod that helps to hold the blade in place and allows it to pivot when opening and closing the razor.
   
   
8. Bolster: The bolster is a metal band that sits between the blade and the handle, providing additional support and stability to the razor.

Accessories and Maintenance Tools

In addition to the straight razor itself, there are several accessories and maintenance tools that can help you to properly care for and use your razor.

Some of the most common items include:

1. Honing stone: A honing stone is used to sharpen the blade and is available in various grits and materials to suit your needs.
   
   
2. Leather Strop: A razor strop is a leather strap used to sharpen and maintain the edge of a straight razor.
   
   
3. Razor Stand: A razor stand is used to store the razor in a safe and secure place and can also help to keep the razor blade dry and prevent rust and corrosion.
   
   
4. Shaving Soap or Cream: A high-quality shaving soap or cream can help to provide lubrication and protection for the skin during shaving.
5. Shaving Brush: A shaving brush is used to create a rich, creamy lather when using soap or cream, and can help to exfoliate the skin and lift the hair for a smoother shave.
   
   
6. Leather Sheath: A leather sheath is used to protect the blade when not in use and can also help to prevent cuts or accidents.
   
   

How to Use a Straight Razor

The most common use for a straight razor is for shaving facial hair, but you can also use it to shave your legs or other body hair. Shaving with a straight razor requires some skill and practice, but can be a satisfying and traditional way to achieve a close and smooth shave. Here are the general steps for using a straight razor:

1. Prepare your skin. If you are shaving your face, wash it thoroughly with hot water to open up the pores. If you are shaving your legs, take a hot shower to open up your pores.
   
   
2. Lather up. Use a shaving brush and soap or cream to create a rich, creamy lather. This will help to lubricate your skin and provide a protective barrier for the razor, giving you the most comfortable shave possible.
   
   
3. Start shaving. Hold the razor at a 30-degree angle to your skin and use short, smooth strokes to shave with the grain of your hair. Be sure to use light pressure and let the weight of the razor do the work for you. Avoid going over the same area multiple times, as this can cause skin irritation.
   
   
4. Finish up. Rinse your face with cool water to remove any remaining lather and soap, and then apply an aftershave balm or lotion to help soothe your skin.
   
   

How to Clean and Care For a Straight Razor

How well you take care of your straight razor will make all the difference in the quality of shave you achieve. Proper care and maintenance of a straight razor is important to keep the razor blade sharp, to prevent rust and corrosion, and to extend the life of the razor. Here are some steps for caring for a straight razor:

1. Clean the blade: After each use, rinse the blade thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap or hair, and then dry it thoroughly. Unlike disposable razors, you should NOT leave your straight razor in the shower or anywhere it can be exposed to moisture, as this will cause the razor to rust or corrode.
   
   
2. Strop the blade: Frequent stropping is essential to keep the blade in good condition. You will need to strop your razor before each use, so you should invest in a high-quality leather strop.
   
   
3. Sharpen the blade: A dull razor can cause skin irritation, so it's important to keep the cutting edge of your blade sharp. If your blade needs frequent honing, you can invest in a honing stone to use at home, or you can have it professionally honed.
   
   
4. Store the razor: Store the razor in a dry place, away from moisture and humidity, and preferably in its leather sheath or on a razor stand.

How to Choose a Straight Razor

Choosing the best straight razor for you can depend on a number of factors, including your level of experience, the type of hair you’re looking to remove, and your personal preferences. They can vary in price, and there are plenty of affordable models that are great for beginners.

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a straight razor:

1. Blade Material: Straight razors are typically made from carbon steel or stainless steel. Consider the type of blade that suits your needs and preferences.
   
   
2. Grind: The grind of a straight razor refers to the thickness of the blade and can impact the razor's weight, balance, and ease of use. The most common grinds are full hollow, half hollow, and quarter hollow.
   
   
3. Blade Width: Blade width can impact the overall balance and maneuverability of the razor and can also impact the aggressiveness of the shave. Consider a wider blade for a milder shave, and a narrow blade for a more aggressive shave.
   
   
4. Handle Material: You can choose from a variety of options including wood, bone, plastic, or horn handles, and the material you choose can impact the comfort and grip of the razor. Choose a handle material that feels comfortable in your hand and provides a secure grip.
   
   
5. Brand and Quality: Consider the reputation and quality of the brand and manufacturer of the razor, as well as any reviews or recommendations from other users. You can also look for models that are considered entry-level straight razors if you're just getting started.
   
   

This Dovo straight razor is a great, budget-friendly choice for beginners. It has a carbon steel blade that will hold its sharpness for more uses than a stainless steel option, and its round point is perfect for beginners.

Are you ready to start straight razor shaving?

Now that you have all the information you need to get started, you're well on your way to achieving the closest shave possible. Ditch those disposable razor cartridges and pick out your new, high-quality straight razor today!