I'm 42, been watching videos since last year, wanted to give this a try but just never pulled the trigger. Guess I'm just too caught up in my routine of using Gillette Fusion 5 cartridge blades. I read don't have too many complaints about them, other than the ridiculous price, plus I have extremely coarse, thick facial hair, which seems to wear down blades quicker than the average guy. That and I always seem to be in a rush, which doesn't sound like a good mix with a safety razor. Ended up buying a safety razor at a department store, Van Der Hagen brand, was cheap so figured I'd give it a try before investing a couple hundred dollars in a great DE safety blade, mug, brush, stand, pre shave oil, shave cream, etc. $200 sounds a little lofty but if you add everything up, and you get yourself some great products, $200 is not a far stretch. Of course over time it saves you money with the cheaper blades but it's still a little intimidating for a blue collar guy such as myself. Gonna try it out a handful of times to see if it's for me or not. I'm hoping I catch on quick, and don't slash my face up too bad the first couple times haha!
I’m 54 and just started using a safety razor a 2 months ago. I bought the Merkur FUTUR Adjustable Safety Razor at Amazon and have been using Feather blades. I got tired of the high cost of multi-blade cartridges and decided to give this a try. Hopefully I won’t nick myself to much eventually.
I started using my grandfather's Gillette safety razor after he passed. Saw a serial number on it and googled it. Turned out it was 90 years old! So that means he got it from his father probably :-)
I got mine months ago, and aside from a few scratches it feels and looks new. I think I will be able to give it to my grand kids, but I'm only 20 so by then robots will probably be shaving our faces lol
I am really excited because I am going to my grandpa and grandmas old house soon and I know there is one in his cabinet. I look forward to seeing how old it is 😁
Hey geofatboy I'm 15 and just started shaving my dad isn't around so I had to learn on my own And your videos have taught me alot I just wanted to say thanks for teaching how to shave and I really appreciate your videos there great!!!
Hi Geo, I am in Australia and unfortunately exchange rate and shipping charges make purchasing offshore almost impossible. However, I would like to thank you for helping me to switch back to DE shaving after some 50 years ( Im in my 70's now ) . Your videos are very helpful and helped me purchase a Merkur ( 34C and a Merkur Futur razors. Astra blades and a Simpson brush. Great products. I took a small metal bowl and added 3 blobs of clear silicone ( Fishtank type ) to the bottom. Once dried they provide perfect gentle resistance to the brush in working up a lather. My favourite shape cream? TOBS Sandalwood !!! . Keep up your great work.
Kim Gehrig and that Gillette ad brought me here. Never would have considered using a safety razor. Had my first DE shave. Incredible. So easy, and a much better shave than cartridges. No cuts nicks or burn. Excellent introduction in this vid. Thanks.
I have a manscaped plow. My first real safety razor. Also have a shorter handle one with a trap door style head like that 11:42 Not sure which one I like better, but it isn’t as heavy as the plow.
Kiko Azzurro You'd be surprised. Depending on genetics some 16 year olds can grow more facial hair than some adults. Also shaving irritation and ingrown hairs from multi-blade cartridge razors are not exclusive to people who can grow magnificent beards.
I used to get loads of bumps, neck rash and ingrowing hairs until I switched from multi-blade cartridge razors to DE shaving. Multi-blade razors are once of the biggest marketing lies sold to our generation!
Finally bought a Safety Razor after a year of watching you. Thank you SO much for turning me on to wet shaving. I just wet shaved for the first time, BEST SHAVE IVE EVER HAD. THANKS FOR TUTORIAL!
Nice video Geo! You are living the Shave enthusiasts (addicts) dream. I have converted about 10 friends and family to D.E. shaving and the feed back is great. Of course I send them your way for instruction and supplies. Thanks for all the great videos!
An excellent company to buy from. I ordered several products and had them in two days. The videos are also very helpful. Thank you for taking the time to do them. This will be my go to company for shaving supplies.Carl NYC
When I was a teenager I inherited a couple of safety razors from my grandfather's estate. Back before Ebay and Amazon, it was harder to get a hold of blades, so for that reason and also being taken by the marketing of the cartridge razors, I started using a Gillette single blade Astra, but I started to feel like the blades were too expensive, and also got disgusted when they started adding more and more blades. So for years I actually went to electric shavers. Recently, I started using a safety razor again. I don't think I'm ever going back. The quality of the shave is far better than any of the other methods, and it's cheap to maintain. It is really the ultimate shaving tool. People need to stop buying in to the stupid multi blade shaving craze. How can people afford to pay five dollars for a cartridge that dulls in two uses, and doesn't even give a good shave? The more blades they put on, the crappier the shave, and the more it costs. People need to send a message to the companies that make those by not buying them.
This was one of the first vids I saw of wet shaving and of Geo and it's what convinced me to take that leap of faith into the hobby. Damn happy I did, almost... 5 years now for me! Thanks again, Geo, maybe your stubble never trouble!
I am a newcomer to safety wet razor shaving and this video is just what I needed to expand my knowledge. I was previously for many years used an electric shaver. I hope to expand from beginning to more advance by purchasing a better razor, soap, badger brush, and after shave. I have subscribed to your site.
Hey Geo, One word sums up the ShaveNation stock room... PARADISE! I thank you to this day and I'm sure millions of other men throughout the globe. For sharing your knowing in shaving and keeping us in budget. God Bless You Sir! :)
This is great tutorial. I set up the 3 piece wrong and was wondering why it was only removing shaving and not shaving hair. I was close to returning it until I saw your video. Thanks a million.
I'm glad I found this oldie! Your presentation style has really improved a lot. Not that there's anything wrong with your performance in this video, but you're clearly a lot more comfortable with the camera now.
Excellent presentation! Good information from both a historical and practical perspective and the host is very affable. No heavy sales pressure-just a nice,: this is who were are and what we offer"--promotion. I appreciate that very much and it makes me very inclined patronize your business and videos. I am just about to embark on my very first Safety Razor-DE Blade experience and this video has fueled my excitement and eagerness. Thank You.
I bought a Rapira razor with 5 blades off ebay about 5 years ago, I had never used a DE razor before and the change was a revelation! I have since bought a variety pack of Russian blades and some sticks of Arko soap. I will never go back to multi edge razors. Closer shaves at a small fraction of the price :-)
Best informative video I've ever seen, I'm 55 now and only ever used disposable razors (mostly Gillette) but changing over to what my ancestors did now!
Thanks so much for all of your advice. I have been shaving regularly since freshman year in highschool and I am now a junior. I have had horific razor burn and bumps. First de shave today and all I can say is WOW... At first I didn't even think I was shaving. went great and had no burns or bumps. Merkur 34 c bought with Xmas money. I even grew the balls to go against the grain the third pass. If you are thinking of going de... Go for it.
I want to say a big thank you for your vids. I recently had my eyes opened to better shaving after visiting a professional barber for a shave. I had a cheap DE razor many years ago after seeing my grandfather use one but I didn't stick with it. How I wish I had! I now have a Merkur HD 34C & just a couple of shaves in I'm feeling the benefits; closer smoother shaves & I really do look forward to shaving. Thanks again, your vids show the right way to shave and what kit to buy. All the best! :)
I always used to hate shaving when I was using carts becasue they would rip the hair off your face after 4 shaves (and at $2.50 + per cartridge). I am really enjoying DE shaving for the first time in my life and I totally cannot wait to shave every other day!
Really appreciate your vids. I'm going to buy my first safety razor very soon. I haven't seen all your vids yet and I don't know if you mentioned this or not, but I think it's worth mentioning for people just starting out. Since u plug the drain of your sink rather than run your blade under water, make sure the sink is very clean. Toothpaste, mouth wash, etc can make a sink very dirty and it gets on the blade which is on your face. I'm sure you know this and keep your sink clean.
Hello, before I buy, how can I know which razor provides a mild shaving? There is a way to know or guess the level of aggressiveness? I look for the mildest shave I could get. What do you recommend for that? Thank you!
Geo I'm always looking for a new video from you they are always so informative and interesting! You are the reason I had the knowledge and courage to buy my first straight! I also have two vintage doubles and I will never look back! Keep em coming man!!!
Personal Experience: Very true about the disapearance of red bumps and ingrown hair on the neck area. I've ALWAYS had horrible red bumps ALL OVER my neck after each shaves (with the modern multi cartridge razors). Upon a single try of a DE safety razor, not a single red bump came. What a relief.
I had already started on the path to using a safety razor after I saw a show about extending the life of blades by wiping with alcohol and keeping somewhere dry, as its the moisture that destroys the blade, not the use. Anywho, I def wanted to see a how to before I used it, and yours did the trick, good pro job.
Excellent video .....Wife got me a murker 23c for up coming fathers day. I will be trying it out Thursday, The last time I used a DE was in the 70's. It was my dads Gillette , tore my face to bits ...lol...I will be educating myself on your channel.... Actually looking forward to it ....thanks again !
Just made the switch and love how close it gets. I'm taking it easy to start out since I am new to it and the two times I shaved I can tell my face needs time to heal from it. I have noticed better results in the preparation. The hotter the water the better. Over time I am sure I will be better at it. Love how close it shaves!
After just over year of safety razor shaving, the ONLY time I get cut is when I press against my skin (me doing the work). You may hear it a 1000 times and not believe it, but "let the razor do the work" IS the solution! When I let the razor work (minimal pressure) I can get a nice, close, shave - with zero nicks! After a while, it's like riding a bike. The angle happens naturally without even thinking. You'll get the hang of it. No worries :)
Keep up the video's! I send my clients to check these out all the time. Very informative. It was actually Lynn for Straight Razor Place that pointed out your video's to me. I'm camera shy so people like you are a great help to the industry! Phil Classic Edge Shaving
Im 15, and i used a cartridge razor once, i saw this and decided to get a double edge, mug, brush and soap. Its been about 6 months now, and i havent looked back :D
I bought a cheap (like less than $20) DE razor for a beginner model and recently upgraded to a Merkur Classic 1904 3-piece DE razor. The shave from the Merkur is so nice not to mention it looks awesome! Definitely worth the extra money, wish I woulda started with it in the first place because my cheap-o nearly turned me off to DE shaving.
Switched from cartridge razor to safety razor yesterday. I had watched several videos on shaving with a safety razor, but given that it was a first try, I proceeded with great caution. I was quite content with the results; I had only one nick, and the shave was closer. I enjoyed shaving as a ritual even prior to the switch, but I enjoy it more now. Today, I had no nicks or cuts. I would, of course, have to be vigilant about the blade getting dull, but I know that the blade must be changed after about five or six shaves.
Recently bought a set of safety razor for my boyfriend as birthday gift... Your video helped me a lot! Thank you so much for the information :) Happy New Year 2019!
I switched to Safety razor shaving at first due to the cost of cartridge razors. Then I discovered better shaving creams, aftershaves, pre shave oils and now I think it's really the best way to shave. Everything about it is better and way more economical. Plus the fact it is much less waste than to convential shaving.
frustrated at these results my neck area starts getting bumps and spots and razor burn just on my jaw line and under I need your guidance as I have taken everything from your videos and cannot see how I am going wrong any wise words would be greatly appreciated much love from the uk and thanks for taking time out to do these vids your a top man peace mate sorry for posting like this in parts I know rather long and a eyesore
Hi Geo, appreciate the excellent videos. I'm just about to start shaving with a DE razor for the first time after years of using an electric and multi-cartridge shavers. Your videos have been really helpful with great tips. Thanks man.
Good educational video for every age of shavers, I'm thinking of buying a DE razor to remember the good old days and maybe even toss the disposables away. I started lathering with a brush and I like it and I think it helps a lot with a after lotion.
I have a Merkur HD, and Merkur Futur. I use the HD with derby razors the Merkur with Feather razors. Ive been getting great shaves with both of them. Its been a year since I started and I'll never go back to cartridge razors. Not to mention its cheaper in the long run after the initial cost of getting a brush, the razors, razor blades etc.
there are several products out there that will help with shaving nicks and cuts. The one I use is called a styptic pen. After you shave, you simply wet the "pen" and put it over the cut. It stings for just a second, but will typically close the cut up without the use of toilet paper. As for cutting yourself with a safety razor, you will to begin with but after some practice you will find cuts and nicks are few and far between. I never used to shave the back of my neck for the same reason
Your welcome. I get great head shaves, and I get decent face shaves. I usually dont have time in the morning to go against the grain on my face and I cant do it on my neck because it gets bumpy and irritable however I had worse with the slock (Mach) 5. It also gets me to slow down, get out of my head and focus. Its my Zen time in the morning and a form of meditation. My soap and cream come out to about $7-8 and both last me for a while.
I use a Merkur HD. It is a solid razor, good quality, a little on the heavy side and the handle is quite short (you need to decide if you want a long or a short handle). I am quite happy with it.
I asked the question about the purpose of the "rake" or comb of the safety razor. I think I've figured it out. Is it to align the whiskers so that the blade will make a cleaner cut as well as to get the whiskers to stand out? Please forgive me of my ignorance,Geo,but would really like to be enlightened. I had no idea that there were such a huge selection of safety razors!! The electric one made in the 40's was really an eye opener. THANKS for showing us your selections and videos!!
Thank you! I was researching dollar shave club to see if it was worth it, and reddit directed me to the Edwin jagger safety blade and I love it! I HATE shaving, until now!
I am 22 and have been shaving with Gilette safety razors since I was 17,conveniently due to WW2 reenacting.I even use original blades from time to time.I prefer this to modern razors.
The Vision razor has been discontinued for several years. It's not made any more. The closest razor to it is the Futur: shavenation.com/search?q=futur+razor
about de shaving your vids are like crack very addicting lol I am from Sheffield the home town of edwin jagger the great steel city and have converted to de shaving thanks to you, I have a de89 and edwin jagger badger brush and trumpers Spanish leather shaving cream and sandalwood skinfood I always exfoliate
I've been shaving with a Safety Razor for almost a full year now, and it's one of the best lifestyle changes I've made. No more bloody horror scenes over my sink or embarrassing ingrown hair blemishes on my skin. I think it's one of the safest and most effective ways of shaving, but I do want to try straight shaving eventually. Any plans on making a similar video for straight razors?
Got any extra safety razors lying around? I'm new to the art of the wet shave, but i am already obsessed. I would love to start collecting various safety razors, it might become my new hobby.
there should be a statue of you made you are a legend when it comes to shaving iv learnt so much from you and have spent hours on end watching your videos on a night and researching everything about de shaving your vids are like crack very addicting lol i even watch rhem when i am bored "no homo" lol ,I am from Sheffield the home town of edwin jagger the great steel city and have converted to de shaving thanks to you, I have a de89 and edwin jagger badger brush and trumpers Spanish leather.....
yeah, it's a night and day difference. just doing one pass with the spartan is like doing 3 passes with the 5 blade. and using the brush I think is a huge part of it because of how it rubs off skin and makes the hair stand up
This video helped me learn further about safety razors. When I finally see my full beard, I'm choosing the Weishi razor as the first safety razor to start with based on reviews and I even heard it's also great for a beginner. The VDH razor sold at stores is a rebranded Weishi, which is what I'm getting.
i used it for a month just to learn how to shave with this type of razor. it is good but i noticed big difference in blade. those wilkinson i got with the razor are agressive and i had a lot of cuts. then i bought some israeli made and this are more gentle to my skin. whatever you will use - listen to geo!!! he knows how to do it!
Just bought a Parker 90 yesterday!! Can't wait for it to get here! I remember my papaw shaving with a safety razor and straights I always thought it was badass so after this video brought back some memories I decided to kick the plastic and get y man shave on!!! Really good website btw can't wait to buy a whole kit I want a brush its just tough to drop 50bux on one at first lol
Will have to check out your videos. Just ordered me an Edwin Jagger DE89 for use at work since it is where I shave most of the time. May order me a Merkur for home use. Who knew shaving could be a hobby to steal more of my money lol
You are a legend of modern wet shaving ! This video needs to be updated since one of the best safety razors ever hadn't been designed yet. The Rockwell 6c or 6s is the best beginning razor of ALL TIME. Not only that, it is also one of the best razors you will ever shave with period. You need nothing other than the Rockwell 6c or 6s, it is GOAT.
I went to a shaving store last weekend and they had shaving oils and a description on the side saying something like "Pre-shaving oils are used for people with thick hairs." The lady was very knowledgeable and told us that you use the shaving oil mixed with the shaving cream. IE: You rub the shaving oil on your face first and then mix it with some shaving cream and that should give you a nice smooth shave. That's my 2 cents.
Near the beginning of the video you are describing the different types of handles...can you tell me what kind of DE razor it is of yours that has the "fat" blue handle with those large grooves?
Excellent video as usual. I shave with a single edge razor 🪒. The only razor I use is the 1924 ever ready shovel head with a personna blade. Can your next related video include info on single razors and razor blades?
Hello!! That is quite an array of safety razors!! The electric safety razor made in the 40's was an eye opener!! COOL!! I really do have to ask you this though, and kindly forgive me of my ignorance. The comb or rake edge; is that for short beards?- or can one get a skin smooth shave with them? Thanks for showing us an array of safety razors!!
What About The Black Handled Gillette Long Boy Adjustable I’ve Had Mine Since 1980’s Geo Are They Still Available Mine Still Works But The Adjustable Part No Longer Adjusts it’s Stuck On 1 On One Side And 4 On The Other So I Just Use 4 Only When it’s Been 3 or More Days Since I Last Shaved Most Of the Time i Can Use The 1 Side But Would Like To Get a New One And Set It On 2-3 Setting 😊 Best Razor I’ve Ever Used That’s Why I Still Use it 😀👍🏼
best way to shave everything.. seriously everything
SuperSimpleasthat I'd have to catch her first !
Nicely put!!! ;)
it's not going anywhere near my sack, that's forsake.
Some Hospitals Still Uses Them To Shave a Patient Before Surgery 😀👍🏼
@@gillybuzz trust me its better than anything if u shave that place
Man I'm 55 yrs. old and I'm just now learning all about this. Who says you can't teach an old dog a new trick..This tutorial stuff is all good.
I'm 42, been watching videos since last year, wanted to give this a try but just never pulled the trigger. Guess I'm just too caught up in my routine of using Gillette Fusion 5 cartridge blades. I read don't have too many complaints about them, other than the ridiculous price, plus I have extremely coarse, thick facial hair, which seems to wear down blades quicker than the average guy. That and I always seem to be in a rush, which doesn't sound like a good mix with a safety razor. Ended up buying a safety razor at a department store, Van Der Hagen brand, was cheap so figured I'd give it a try before investing a couple hundred dollars in a great DE safety blade, mug, brush, stand, pre shave oil, shave cream, etc. $200 sounds a little lofty but if you add everything up, and you get yourself some great products, $200 is not a far stretch. Of course over time it saves you money with the cheaper blades but it's still a little intimidating for a blue collar guy such as myself. Gonna try it out a handful of times to see if it's for me or not. I'm hoping I catch on quick, and don't slash my face up too bad the first couple times haha!
I’m 54 and just started using a safety razor a 2 months ago. I bought the Merkur FUTUR Adjustable Safety Razor at Amazon and have been using Feather blades. I got tired of the high cost of multi-blade cartridges and decided to give this a try. Hopefully I won’t nick myself to much eventually.
I started using my grandfather's Gillette safety razor after he passed. Saw a serial number on it and googled it. Turned out it was 90 years old! So that means he got it from his father probably :-)
I got mine months ago, and aside from a few scratches it feels and looks new. I think I will be able to give it to my grand kids, but I'm only 20 so by then robots will probably be shaving our faces lol
Wow! Safety Razors really is an investment!
That's a family heritage now. And you should leave it to your child if you have one...
I am really excited because I am going to my grandpa and grandmas old house soon and I know there is one in his cabinet. I look forward to seeing how old it is 😁
Hey geofatboy I'm 15 and just started shaving my dad isn't around so I had to learn on my own And your videos have taught me alot I just wanted to say thanks for teaching how to shave and I really appreciate your videos there great!!!
Hi Geo, I am in Australia and unfortunately exchange rate and shipping charges make purchasing offshore almost impossible. However, I would like to thank you for helping me to switch back to DE shaving after some 50 years ( Im in my 70's now ) . Your videos are very helpful and helped me purchase a Merkur ( 34C and a Merkur Futur razors. Astra blades and a Simpson brush. Great products. I took a small metal bowl and added 3 blobs of clear silicone ( Fishtank type ) to the bottom. Once dried they provide perfect gentle resistance to the brush in working up a lather. My favourite shape cream? TOBS Sandalwood !!! . Keep up your great work.
Kim Gehrig and that Gillette ad brought me here. Never would have considered using a safety razor. Had my first DE shave. Incredible. So easy, and a much better shave than cartridges. No cuts nicks or burn. Excellent introduction in this vid. Thanks.
I have a manscaped plow. My first real safety razor. Also have a shorter handle one with a trap door style head like that 11:42 Not sure which one I like better, but it isn’t as heavy as the plow.
I'm 16 and I've just made the switch between cartridge razors to DE razors and I must say I don't regret it one bit. Thanks for the info!
Kiko Azzurro You'd be surprised. Depending on genetics some 16 year olds can grow more facial hair than some adults. Also shaving irritation and ingrown hairs from multi-blade cartridge razors are not exclusive to people who can grow magnificent beards.
I used to get loads of bumps, neck rash and ingrowing hairs until I switched from multi-blade cartridge razors to DE shaving. Multi-blade razors are once of the biggest marketing lies sold to our generation!
Man your videos about shave subject have the most informations around the world ! you are awesome ! I really Love your videos and your channel
Thank you Sam! I appreciate your kind words and support.
Sir, you are the Einstein of razors, some much knowledge, just amazing. Also impresive that these razors survived 50 years in one piece. Great video.
Finally bought a Safety Razor after a year of watching you.
Thank you SO much for turning me on to wet shaving. I just wet shaved for the first time, BEST SHAVE IVE EVER HAD. THANKS FOR TUTORIAL!
Nice video Geo! You are living the Shave enthusiasts (addicts) dream. I have converted about 10 friends and family to D.E. shaving and the feed back is great. Of course I send them your way for instruction and supplies. Thanks for all the great videos!
An excellent company to buy from. I ordered several products and had them in two days. The videos are also very helpful. Thank you for taking the time to do them. This will be my go to company for shaving supplies.Carl NYC
When I was a teenager I inherited a couple of safety razors from my grandfather's estate. Back before Ebay and Amazon, it was harder to get a hold of blades, so for that reason and also being taken by the marketing of the cartridge razors, I started using a Gillette single blade Astra, but I started to feel like the blades were too expensive, and also got disgusted when they started adding more and more blades. So for years I actually went to electric shavers. Recently, I started using a safety razor again. I don't think I'm ever going back. The quality of the shave is far better than any of the other methods, and it's cheap to maintain. It is really the ultimate shaving tool. People need to stop buying in to the stupid multi blade shaving craze. How can people afford to pay five dollars for a cartridge that dulls in two uses, and doesn't even give a good shave? The more blades they put on, the crappier the shave, and the more it costs. People need to send a message to the companies that make those by not buying them.
This was one of the first vids I saw of wet shaving and of Geo and it's what convinced me to take that leap of faith into the hobby. Damn happy I did, almost... 5 years now for me! Thanks again, Geo, maybe your stubble never trouble!
I am a newcomer to safety wet razor shaving and this video is just what I needed to expand my knowledge. I was previously for many years used an electric shaver. I hope to expand from beginning to more advance by purchasing a better razor, soap, badger brush, and after shave. I have subscribed to your site.
Hey Geo, One word sums up the ShaveNation stock room... PARADISE! I thank you to this day and I'm sure millions of other men throughout the globe. For sharing your knowing in shaving and keeping us in budget. God Bless You Sir! :)
This is great tutorial. I set up the 3 piece wrong and was wondering why it was only removing shaving and not shaving hair. I was close to returning it until I saw your video. Thanks a million.
I'm glad I found this oldie! Your presentation style has really improved a lot. Not that there's anything wrong with your performance in this video, but you're clearly a lot more comfortable with the camera now.
10 years of doing it... It happens. Thanks!
I received a 1954 Z1 Superspeed Razor from a buddy for my birthday and I will never go back to multi-blades. Good intro to DE razor video. Thanks.
Excellent presentation! Good information from both a historical and practical perspective and the host is very affable. No heavy sales pressure-just a nice,: this is who were are and what we offer"--promotion. I appreciate that very much and it makes me very inclined patronize your business and videos. I am just about to embark on my very first Safety Razor-DE Blade experience and this video has fueled my excitement and eagerness. Thank You.
Greetings from Dhaka, Bangladesh. Excellent reviews brother. You are the King of the shaving kingdom. Cheers.
Thanks Jewel! It's cool that you can watch from all the way over there.
I bought a Rapira razor with 5 blades off ebay about 5 years ago, I had never used a DE razor before and the change was a revelation! I have since bought a variety pack of Russian blades and some sticks of Arko soap.
I will never go back to multi edge razors. Closer shaves at a small fraction of the price :-)
Best informative video I've ever seen, I'm 55 now and only ever used disposable razors (mostly Gillette) but changing over to what my ancestors did now!
Thanks so much for all of your advice. I have been shaving regularly since freshman year in highschool and I am now a junior. I have had horific razor burn and bumps. First de shave today and all I can say is WOW... At first I didn't even think I was shaving. went great and had no burns or bumps. Merkur 34 c bought with Xmas money. I even grew the balls to go against the grain the third pass. If you are thinking of going de... Go for it.
I want to say a big thank you for your vids. I recently had my eyes opened to better shaving after visiting a professional barber for a shave. I had a cheap DE razor many years ago after seeing my grandfather use one but I didn't stick with it. How I wish I had! I now have a Merkur HD 34C & just a couple of shaves in I'm feeling the benefits; closer smoother shaves & I really do look forward to shaving.
Thanks again, your vids show the right way to shave and what kit to buy.
All the best! :)
ty man for all the info. I just finished my first DE shave w/a DE89 and handed my fusion over to the wife. Never going back!
Thank you for your videos. I just finished my first wet shave about ten minutes ago with my Weishi and my face feels great.
I always used to hate shaving when I was using carts becasue they would rip the hair off your face after 4 shaves (and at $2.50 + per cartridge). I am really enjoying DE shaving for the first time in my life and I totally cannot wait to shave every other day!
Really appreciate your vids. I'm going to buy my first safety razor very soon. I haven't seen all your vids yet and I don't know if you mentioned this or not, but I think it's worth mentioning for people just starting out. Since u plug the drain of your sink rather than run your blade under water, make sure the sink is very clean. Toothpaste, mouth wash, etc can make a sink very dirty and it gets on the blade which is on your face. I'm sure you know this and keep your sink clean.
Hello, before I buy, how can I know which razor provides a mild shaving? There is a way to know or guess the level of aggressiveness? I look for the mildest shave I could get. What do you recommend for that? Thank you!
Geo I'm always looking for a new video from you they are always so informative and interesting! You are the reason I had the knowledge and courage to buy my first straight! I also have two vintage doubles and I will never look back! Keep em coming man!!!
Personal Experience:
Very true about the disapearance of red bumps and ingrown hair on the neck area. I've ALWAYS had horrible red bumps ALL OVER my neck after each shaves (with the modern multi cartridge razors). Upon a single try of a DE safety razor, not a single red bump came. What a relief.
I currently use my grandpa's old 3 piece safety razor. I wanted to try something new, and then fell in love with it. =)
Thank you for the info! I just started shaving with the merkur 34c and I love it! I also ordered a variety sample pack.
I had already started on the path to using a safety razor after I saw a show about extending the life of blades by wiping with alcohol and keeping somewhere dry, as its the moisture that destroys the blade, not the use. Anywho, I def wanted to see a how to before I used it, and yours did the trick, good pro job.
Superb video that explains with 100% clarity! The one stop shop for sure! Great work, well done and thanks a million!
Excellent video .....Wife got me a murker 23c for up coming fathers day. I will be trying it out Thursday, The last time I used a DE was in the 70's. It was my dads Gillette , tore my face to bits ...lol...I will be educating myself on your channel.... Actually looking forward to it ....thanks again !
I dont really ever comment on youtube videos but that was very informative!
Just made the switch and love how close it gets. I'm taking it easy to start out since I am new to it and the two times I shaved I can tell my face needs time to heal from it. I have noticed better results in the preparation. The hotter the water the better. Over time I am sure I will be better at it. Love how close it shaves!
With these razors try to keep the pressure to a minimum because that's what causes the cuts. The hotter the water the better indeed!
After just over year of safety razor shaving, the ONLY time I get cut is when I press against my skin (me doing the work). You may hear it a 1000 times and not believe it, but "let the razor do the work" IS the solution! When I let the razor work (minimal pressure) I can get a nice, close, shave - with zero nicks! After a while, it's like riding a bike. The angle happens naturally without even thinking. You'll get the hang of it. No worries :)
Very helpful I bought a Parker 99 based on this video, now I'm planing on jumping to a Edwin jäger de 89lil. Thank you cheers
Keep up the video's! I send my clients to check these out all the time. Very informative. It was actually Lynn for Straight Razor Place that pointed out your video's to me. I'm camera shy so people like you are a great help to the industry!
Phil
Classic Edge Shaving
I have an adjustable with numbers below the shave head, always wondered what they are for.
And now you know!
Im 15, and i used a cartridge razor once, i saw this and decided to get a double edge, mug, brush and soap. Its been about 6 months now, and i havent looked back :D
Hey Geo's back, now that's a shave den to be proud of. I'm sure i'm not the only one checking the products out in the background.
I bought a cheap (like less than $20) DE razor for a beginner model and recently upgraded to a Merkur Classic 1904 3-piece DE razor. The shave from the Merkur is so nice not to mention it looks awesome! Definitely worth the extra money, wish I woulda started with it in the first place because my cheap-o nearly turned me off to DE shaving.
Switched from cartridge razor to safety razor yesterday. I had watched several videos on shaving with a safety razor, but given that it was a first try, I proceeded with great caution. I was quite content with the results; I had only one nick, and the shave was closer. I enjoyed shaving as a ritual even prior to the switch, but I enjoy it more now. Today, I had no nicks or cuts. I would, of course, have to be vigilant about the blade getting dull, but I know that the blade must be changed after about five or six shaves.
Recently bought a set of safety razor for my boyfriend as birthday gift...
Your video helped me a lot! Thank you so much for the information :)
Happy New Year 2019!
Am going back to my old Way of shaving , vintage style 💯👍
What's the first razor you reach for?
I switched to Safety razor shaving at first due to the cost of cartridge razors. Then I discovered better shaving creams, aftershaves, pre shave oils and now I think it's really the best way to shave. Everything about it is better and way more economical. Plus the fact it is much less waste than to convential shaving.
frustrated at these results my neck area starts getting bumps and spots and razor burn just on my jaw line and under I need your guidance as I have taken everything from your videos and cannot see how I am going wrong any wise words would be greatly appreciated much love from the uk and thanks for taking time out to do these vids your a top man peace mate sorry for posting like this in parts I know rather long and a eyesore
Have a great shave, have a great day! In 2023!
Hi Geo, appreciate the excellent videos. I'm just about to start shaving with a DE razor for the first time after years of using an electric and multi-cartridge shavers. Your videos have been really helpful with great tips. Thanks man.
Good educational video for every age of shavers, I'm thinking of buying a DE razor to remember the good old days and maybe even toss the disposables away. I started lathering with a brush and I like it and I think it helps a lot with a after lotion.
Thank you for giving us an in-depth view of safety razors.
this video was so helpful, I'm shedding a tear for unbelievably beneficial was to watch it
I have a Merkur HD, and Merkur Futur. I use the HD with derby razors the Merkur with Feather razors. Ive been getting great shaves with both of them. Its been a year since I started and I'll never go back to cartridge razors. Not to mention its cheaper in the long run after the initial cost of getting a brush, the razors, razor blades etc.
there are several products out there that will help with shaving nicks and cuts. The one I use is called a styptic pen. After you shave, you simply wet the "pen" and put it over the cut. It stings for just a second, but will typically close the cut up without the use of toilet paper.
As for cutting yourself with a safety razor, you will to begin with but after some practice you will find cuts and nicks are few and far between. I never used to shave the back of my neck for the same reason
Your welcome. I get great head shaves, and I get decent face shaves. I usually dont have time in the morning to go against the grain on my face and I cant do it on my neck because it gets bumpy and irritable however I had worse with the slock (Mach) 5. It also gets me to slow down, get out of my head and focus. Its my Zen time in the morning and a form of meditation. My soap and cream come out to about $7-8 and both last me for a while.
I use a Merkur HD. It is a solid razor, good quality, a little on the heavy side and the handle is quite short (you need to decide if you want a long or a short handle). I am quite happy with it.
I asked the question about the purpose of the "rake" or comb of the safety razor. I think I've figured it out. Is it to align the whiskers so that the blade will make a cleaner cut as well as to get the whiskers to stand out? Please forgive me of my ignorance,Geo,but would really like to be enlightened.
I had no idea that there were such a huge selection of safety razors!! The electric one made in the 40's was really an eye opener. THANKS for showing us your selections and videos!!
Thank you! I was researching dollar shave club to see if it was worth it, and reddit directed me to the Edwin jagger safety blade and I love it! I HATE shaving, until now!
+Keith Dobbs
Ditch the cartridge and try a safety razor, you'll love it... Run over your cartridge with a steam roller... Good times!
I am 22 and have been shaving with Gilette safety razors since I was 17,conveniently due to WW2 reenacting.I even use original blades from time to time.I prefer this to modern razors.
7:45
I can't find this for sale anywhere. Shave Nation's site lists them, but they are out of stock.
The Vision razor has been discontinued for several years. It's not made any more. The closest razor to it is the Futur: shavenation.com/search?q=futur+razor
You da man! I used your technique and got the best shave of my life. Thank you so much for the great advice.
:)
about de shaving your vids are like crack very addicting lol I am from Sheffield the home town of edwin jagger the great steel city and have converted to de shaving thanks to you, I have a de89 and edwin jagger badger brush and trumpers Spanish leather shaving cream and sandalwood skinfood I always exfoliate
Dude, thank you for this video. It was super informative in all of the things I was interested in learning about Safety Razors. Great video!
I've been shaving with a Safety Razor for almost a full year now, and it's one of the best lifestyle changes I've made. No more bloody horror scenes over my sink or embarrassing ingrown hair blemishes on my skin. I think it's one of the safest and most effective ways of shaving, but I do want to try straight shaving eventually. Any plans on making a similar video for straight razors?
You're quite welcome. The EJ DE89 is a great razor. It should serve you well for many years.
Got any extra safety razors lying around? I'm new to the art of the wet shave, but i am already obsessed. I would love to start collecting various safety razors, it might become my new hobby.
there should be a statue of you made you are a legend when it comes to shaving iv learnt so much from you and have spent hours on end watching your videos on a night and researching everything about de shaving your vids are like crack very addicting lol i even watch rhem when i am bored "no homo" lol ,I am from Sheffield the home town of edwin jagger the great steel city and have converted to de shaving thanks to you, I have a de89 and edwin jagger badger brush and trumpers Spanish leather.....
Our master has returned.
yeah, it's a night and day difference. just doing one pass with the spartan is like doing 3 passes with the 5 blade. and using the brush I think is a huge part of it because of how it rubs off skin and makes the hair stand up
This video helped me learn further about safety razors. When I finally see my full beard, I'm choosing the Weishi razor as the first safety razor to start with based on reviews and I even heard it's also great for a beginner. The VDH razor sold at stores is a rebranded Weishi, which is what I'm getting.
i used it for a month just to learn how to shave with this type of razor. it is good but i noticed big difference in blade. those wilkinson i got with the razor are agressive and i had a lot of cuts. then i bought some israeli made and this are more gentle to my skin.
whatever you will use - listen to geo!!! he knows how to do it!
Just bought a Parker 90 yesterday!! Can't wait for it to get here! I remember my papaw shaving with a safety razor and straights I always thought it was badass so after this video brought back some memories I decided to kick the plastic and get y man shave on!!! Really good website btw can't wait to buy a whole kit I want a brush its just tough to drop 50bux on one at first lol
Nice video. What about something about cleaning straight razors, what oil to use, how often and much, etc...
Will have to check out your videos. Just ordered me an Edwin Jagger DE89 for use at work since it is where I shave most of the time. May order me a Merkur for home use. Who knew shaving could be a hobby to steal more of my money lol
i see proraso in the background. i seriously love that stuff. first and last soap i will ever use.
14:05 which is that cigar type razor at the down right side ?
This one: bit.ly/Merkur44RazorSN
I live in the uk , Kent, and grew up using my fathers straight razors (13-16) and have never used or tried any other type of razor.
This video was great, very educational. Can you do the same about straight razors?
You are a legend of modern wet shaving ! This video needs to be updated since one of the best safety razors ever hadn't been designed yet. The Rockwell 6c or 6s is the best beginning razor of ALL TIME. Not only that, it is also one of the best razors you will ever shave with period. You need nothing other than the Rockwell 6c or 6s, it is GOAT.
Very very informative. This is a must for the safety razor newbie! Thanks
Great instructional video! Still undecided about which razor to go for - may try to find a Gillette Slim . Thanks for sharing!
Great video! I always love seeing new videos from the gent who got ne addicted to straight razor shaving :D
I'm using a Merkur 23c with Personna blades, and I'm very satisfied with it.
I have my dad's old safety razor but its a single edge.. I have no idea where to buy blades for it..
Blades for your Dad's Razor: shavenation.com/products/gem-blue-star-single-edge-blades?_pos=1&_sid=e14544554&_ss=r
That R41 makes me shiver, more aggressive than a straight in my opinion. But I still like to use it sometimes.
I went to a shaving store last weekend and they had shaving oils and a description on the side saying something like "Pre-shaving oils are used for people with thick hairs."
The lady was very knowledgeable and told us that you use the shaving oil mixed with the shaving cream. IE: You rub the shaving oil on your face first and then mix it with some shaving cream and that should give you a nice smooth shave.
That's my 2 cents.
Near the beginning of the video you are describing the different types of handles...can you tell me what kind of DE razor it is of yours that has the "fat" blue handle with those large grooves?
Great video, can you tell me the make and model of the swivel headed razor please
What kind of straight razor was that with the clear yellow handle?
Glad to see you're back.
Excellent video as usual. I shave with a single edge razor 🪒. The only razor I use is the 1924 ever ready shovel head with a personna blade. Can your next related video include info on single razors and razor blades?
Im using a Parker 99r right now. Wanna pick up a Feather or Merkur soon
I am planning on get a straight razor, I would like to know if stropping the blade will purely suffice or with I be required to Hone it as well ??
Hello!! That is quite an array of safety razors!! The electric safety razor made in the 40's was an eye opener!! COOL!!
I really do have to ask you this though, and kindly forgive me of my ignorance. The comb or rake edge; is that for short beards?- or can one get a skin smooth shave with them?
Thanks for showing us an array of safety razors!!
What About The Black Handled Gillette Long Boy Adjustable I’ve Had Mine Since 1980’s Geo Are They Still Available Mine Still Works But The Adjustable Part No Longer Adjusts it’s Stuck On 1 On One Side And 4 On The Other So I Just Use 4 Only When it’s Been 3 or More Days Since I Last Shaved Most Of the Time i Can Use The 1 Side But Would Like To Get a New One And Set It On 2-3 Setting 😊 Best Razor I’ve Ever Used That’s Why I Still Use it 😀👍🏼