Shaving is nowadays super easy with electric shavers that you can use to do relatively little wrong. And although that is of course nice and comfortable, the Charme van Scheren almost completely disappears. In our eyes, classical shaving is therefore undervalued. With an open razor, which we also Straight Razor You go for that classic shave. But what is such a classic razor Exactly what benefits it offers and what should you look out for when buying such a knife. Because firstly, buying an old -fashioned razor is a serious matter. Once you have one you also need to know how you use it, and how you maintain this knife so that it stays in top condition. You can read the answer to all these questions below.
An open razor, what exactly is that?
Open razors have been used since the 17th century, making it one of the oldest types of razors in the world. Nowadays the classic razor is mainly used by men who want the best feasible shave, or who can appreciate the traditional way of shaving and of course also by Barbiers. To be able to shave well, you need a practical and efficient open razor. These are available in many shapes and sizes, where, among other things, the steel type, size and the point type may differ. It is therefore important to delve well into the different types before you purchase one.
What are the benefits of an open razor?
Shaving with a classic razor offers a number of major benefits. We have listed the most important 3 for you.
- Shaving will be an experience again: nowadays Shaving is all about convenience and price if we look at the choice for a purchase. Nevertheless, it is now increasingly shifting to quality and experience, Shaving is not as quickly updating your face, the time can be taken to achieve a good result. It is a relaxation moment for the modern man, and with a classic razor you complete this moment.
- The result is unparalleled: you never get such a good shaving result as with a classic razor, especially in comparison with modern razors or shavers. You will see that your skin has never been so soft and smooth.
- After the investment, it provides a financial benefit: initially a classic razor is an investment, they are more expensive than modern shavers. The big advantage, however, is that you can basically do your entire life if you handle it well. You just have to do a good one occasional shaving soap to buy.
What should you pay attention to when buying a classic razor?
When you are going to buy a classic razor for the first time, you have to pay attention to a number of things. We have also listed that for you, so that buying the right copy is a piece of cake.
The width of the shaving leaf
First of all you have to look closely at the width of the shaving leaf, which are noted in inches. The most common sizes are a 5/8 or 6/8, where the first is suitable for light to normal beard growth and the last for somewhat heavier beard growth. In general, the heavier your beard growth is, the heavier the knife must be.
The head or tip of the shaving leaf
You have open razors with a rounded point at the end that cause slices less quickly. Other the other side you also have with a square point, which ensure slices a little faster. These are better for tight contours, so it's just what you want.
The material
The material can vary considerably. Most are made of carbon steel, carbon steel or stainless steel. The beginner often opts for the first two, which are easier in terms of maintenance. These rust a little faster than stainless steel. Good maintenance is therefore extra important in the first two. Moreover, stainless steel stays sharp for longer. Stainless steel is usually the most expensive option.
Maintenance of a classic razor
Maintaining an open razor is very important. After about a day, the razor, and especially the metal, is recovered from the previous shave. Before you start shaving again, you must focus the razor on you shaving strap, on the side of Canvas. In this way you ensure that the hairs are in the right direction. Then you have to hang the shaving belt and bring the belt towards you, at the bottom.
Now you can remove loose dust particles by hand. After this you have to put the knife at the bottom of the shaving belt, aiming your back upwards. Then move the knife upwards without pressing too hard on the knife, go up and down about 15 times. Then turn the shaving side with the leather side towards you and do the same, but then to grind and polish your knife. You repeat this about 20 to 25 times. If you have rust on your knife you can remove this with a mineral oil.
How do you shave with a classic razor?
The first thing we want to say is; NB. You can easily make slices with a classic razor, so start practicing around the sideburns. You lay the knife flat on the skin and make a corner of approximately 30 degrees. In the beginning we recommend not to shave too tightly. With your cheeks, chin and upper lip you can use a somewhat smaller angle. You shave with quiet and even movements, while keeping the skin tight with the other hand. Hold the razor relaxed between the fingertips. Try to operate the knife with three fingertips and thumb. Also regularly rinse the knife clean during shaving. Always shave with the beard hair first. Try to practice this as much as possible.
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