Thread: Do I need a new edge?

Hello everyone after shave 5 which was the best so far I stroped the razor for the next use. I noticed it does not cut a free standing hair. This razor was purchased shave ready I have always stroped before I used the razor. Any suggestions on what I can do? I usually strop 20 passes on the fabric and 30 on the leather. Thanks

The HHT test isn't the be all end all for sharpness tests. The shave test is For me, my hair is so fine that half my razors wont pass the HHT...yet they shave just fine. If the shave is still good then you're fine.

I am only on my fifth shave what would a bad shave be like if I used correct technique but the razor was dull?

Originally Posted by chris609

I am only on my fifth shave what would a bad shave be like if I used correct technique but the razor was dull?

I'm still a newb too, but am using two things to judge my progress:

1. Am I seeing whiskers in the shaving cream as I wipe the blade on a towel while shaving?
2. If I run my hand across the face where I just shaved and going in the same direction, does it feel smooth?

Since the answer to both of those is still "yes", I'm assuming that my blade is sharp enough and my technique is getting close to acceptable.

Originally Posted by chris609

Hello everyone after shave 5 which was the best so far I stroped the razor for the next use. I noticed it does not cut a free standing hair. This razor was purchased shave ready I have always stroped before I used the razor. Any suggestions on what I can do? I usually strop 20 passes on the fabric and 30 on the leather. Thanks

2 things come to mind. The first that 20/30 may not be enough stropping. I strop most of my razors 50/50 or 50/100. If I have a razor that needs a little help I'll do 20/100/200 (paste/fabric/leather) which I also do after rehoning any edge.

The other thing is that generally speaking, edges need to be refreshed on the hones after a while no matter what. However, that's no the same as needing a "new edge." A few minutes on a finishing hone will probably bring it right back in line.

Thanks guys I just stropped 50/50 and it seems better. Maybe I am just being picky. Anyway I ordered Lynn's paddle system I think I will like stropping on it better than the strap it also has other pads for touching up. I canot wait for the next shave

Let me know what you think of the paddles. Some folks really prefer them, some don't.

Let me know what you think of the paddles. Some folks really prefer them, some don't.

I sure will Vee I think I will like this setup better plenty of options with it. For the time being I will be stropping with more strokes on the strap. Thanks everyone for the help I can't wait for the next shave.