Thread: One pass

In my opinion, shaving can be a daily ritual akin to meditating. I have been using a straight razor since 1969. I once used an electric - I didn't like it. I have used a Rolls Razor and it gives a passable shave. I have used and still do occasionally use a Gem single edge razor and various Gillett vintage double edge razors. But my steady is the straight. I don't use fancy soaps, just a simple glycerin bar soap melted into my mug and an inexpensive brush. If I use an aftershave, it is diluted (in my hand) spiced rum from the grocery store (if you can drink it, it safe to use on your face). My razor is sharp enough so that when shaving I only make one pass. Another pass would leave my face smoother but I don't think that is necessary to be presentable. Like the Roman soldier, keep you haircut short and be clean shaven so that the enemy has nothing to grab hold of.

I definitely share your opinion on the "one-pass" shave. Sharp razor = DFS on one pass for me. I have not done a second pass with a straight in a very long time and I consistently get very, very close shaves.

Originally Posted by htmitten

In my opinion, shaving can be a daily ritual akin to meditating. I have been using a straight razor since 1969. I once used an electric - I didn't like it. I have used a Rolls Razor and it gives a passable shave. I have used and still do occasionally use a Gem single edge razor and various Gillett vintage double edge razors. But my steady is the straight. I don't use fancy soaps, just a simple glycerin bar soap melted into my mug and an inexpensive brush. If I use an aftershave, it is diluted (in my hand) spiced rum from the grocery store (if you can drink it, it safe to use on your face). My razor is sharp enough so that when shaving I only make one pass. Another pass would leave my face smoother but I don't think that is necessary to be presentable. Like the Roman soldier, keep you haircut short and be clean shaven so that the enemy has nothing to grab hold of.

I can relate to using utilitarian shave equipment, but I do want the smooth shave. When using a DE or SE razor I give myself, in effect, three shaves in one pass. With a straight I give myself three passes. Sometimes I like the plain soapy scent and other times I want the soap or cream with the fragrance. It is a relaxed experience that I enjoy very much.

SR shaving doesn't have to be a fancy ritual. It can be as luxurious or as utilitarian as you want it to be. So If anyone wants to slap some plain water on your face and run a razor across it, so be it

I do sometimes envy those who can get away with a one pass shave. I'm not Arab-hairy, but my beard is heavy enough that one pass simply won't cut it (pun intended lol). It would be nice on days when time is short to have it done in 5 minutes with a single pass...

....On the other hand, I enjoy the ritual enough that I don't want to be done in 5 minutes, as it's nice to enjoy some "me" time. Different strokes.