Thread: Grip

Quick question, how many people use three fingers; index on spine left side of scales, second finger on tang right side of scales, thumb under spine opposite index finger, scales held upright between index and second finger?

I use 4: index and middle on spine left of scales, ring on tang right of scales, thumb opposite index and middle. Tried the grip you describe early on but didn't feel secure enough for me.

I use this grip:


By blix72 at 2011-08-26


Just the index on the top of the tang is too unstable for me.

I used to use both of those grips, but recently I've changed to keeping the razor handle straight instead of folding it perpendicular to the blade. Now I hold my razor like a pencil or paint brush. From what I've read elsewhere I think it's how you hold a Japanese razor. It gives me much better control with the angle and pressure. I get much better shaves now.

Originally Posted by MinATX

I used to use both of those grips, but recently I've changed to keeping the razor handle straight instead of folding it perpendicular to the blade. Now I hold my razor like a pencil or paint brush. From what I've read elsewhere I think it's how you hold a Japanese razor. It gives me much better control with the angle and pressure. I get much better shaves now.

I sort if use that grip for ATG under the jaw. For me the three finger grip I described allows for excellent manoeuvrability and 'pivoting' the razor for some scything...

I primarily use two grips,

Top Pic, primarily for N-S, Left Hand for Left side, Right Hand for Right side.

Lower Pic, for S-N, Left Hand for Right side, Right Hand for Left side.

For my atg pass I hold the razor as a Japanese razor.

I use 5. Thumb under the tang, index/middle/ring on top of the tang, and my pinkie in the monkey tail curl. That's my over hand pass. My underhand pass of XTG on the neck looks exactly like the one Blix posted above.

Here's a couple ways I hold my razors.
I normally use a bit bigger blades, and that affects the way I hold them.
With a small 5/8 I might not have room for the pinky.

I have no idea, although I know that I do change grips for ATG. Now I'll be thinking about it self-consciously tomorrow and slit my throat. Thanks guys!