If you wanted to have the closest shave possible 3000 years ago, you needed a straight Razor.

If you want a close, smooth shave nowadays, you’d ask for the same. Except that, today, your barber would use a shavette and change the Blade after each use.

When something is so good it lasts for more than 3000 years, it means it really gets the job done.

Not only do straight razors provide more control and the closest shave possible, they work better detail and beard shaping job.

So yes, your barber doesn’t have secret shaving cream or some magic potion that helps him give you the close, neat shave.

The only thing he has is a straight razor and the skill to use it.

If you want to master the same skill and use a straight razor at home to save some time and money, you can.

You’ll need patience and a lot of practice.

Barbers learn how to do this by using straight razors on balloons. They cover the balloon with shaving cream and gently shave it off. If the balloon pops, the skill is not mastered.

There is a reason why straight razors are ominously called cut-throat razors, you know.

You don’t have to do the same as professional barbers, but this process will require commitment.

If you’re willing to put an effort though, a straight razor will give you a barber-level shave experience in the comfort of your home.

The first step is getting the proper straight razor. Here is our selection of the 7 best straight razors.

Top 5 Straight Razors (Summary)

Image	Product	Details
	Most DurableNaked Armor Solomon	Gives a very close shave Sharp Japanese steel blade Lifetime and money-back guarantee	Check on Amazon
	Vintage LookTopman	Reasonably priced Handle is made of genuine wood Fine quality stainless steel blade	Check on Amazon
	Easiest Blade ChangingFeather SS	With just one passing, you get a close shave Heat resistant silicone resin handle Surgically sharp stainless steel blade	Check on Amazon
	A. P. Donovan	Good grip handle High-quality steel blade Comes with a sharpening wax, brush and in elegant, real wood box	Check on Amazon
	Equinox Professional	Comes with 100 replacement blades Provides the right holding angle to avoid discomfort Easy-to-open guard enables safe blade	Check on Amazon

For more detailed and complete product reviews on benefits and features, keep reading.

However, those that indulge in their hair-care process use a more stylish and classic method – the straight user.

7 Best Straight Razors Reviewed

1. Akunsz Straight Razor Kit

Both functional and stylish looking, Akunsz Straight Razor Kit also includes double-layer leather strop and velvet bag.

Wooden, rosewood handle is durable and ergonomically designed, so it provides a very comfortable grip.

You don’t have to worry that the razor will slip from your hands because the thumb notch and ridges on its ends prevent this.

The product has a balanced weight, which makes it easy to control. As the most crucial part of the razor, the blade is made of stainless steel that doesn’t rust.

On a side note, although the seller claims that the blade is sharp and shave ready, many customers state that it’s actually pretty dull even after you sharpen it.

There are some men who find it to be sharp, so you can purchase this product for yourself and see if it’ll work for you.

2. Naked Armor Solomon Shaving Kit

Featuring a sharp Japanese stainless steel blade that never gets rusty, Naked Armor Solomon gives you a pretty close and precise shave.

When you decide to shave, make sure to first give the blade a quick strop at least one day before. You can do this with a leather strap that comes with it.

Algum wood handle is very durable and it’s also accented with two-sided copper heads, so the razor is both sturdy and stylish.

Inside the wooden box kit, there is also a convenient travel case, handmade natural soap, wood brush and sharpening wax.

As you can tell, you get everything you need for a pleasant shaving experience in one place.

It’s worthwhile mentioning that soap is made from coconut oil, butter and milk, so it’s completely natural and creates a perfect lather.

3. Topman

Featuring an elegant wooden handle with a comfortable grip and stainless steel blade, Topman Straight Razor is very easy to use.

It has a classic vintage design, like the razors your father and grandfather used. The blade is of pretty good quality, so it doesn’t tarnish or rust.

An interesting fact is that handle is made of scented rosewood and it’s seriously the pure wood.

This is precisely the reason why the actual color may be slightly different than the one on the pictures.

However, it’s very ergonomic, smooth and fits comfortably into the palm of your hand. You’ll be pleased to know that the blade is very sharp.

Nevertheless, beginners might consider this as a problem because they can cut themselves easily. In the bottom line, this is a pretty good razor at a very affordable price.

4. Naked Armor Solomon Vintage

Suitable for both rookies and professionals in wet shaving, Solomon Vintage Razor from Naked Armor has a professional-grade, vintage style blade.

It’s made of high-grade Japanese stainless steel that needs stropping before you use it for the first time. After that, it becomes much sharper and gives you a close shave.

You can use it no matter if you’re right or left-handed. The handle will feel great in your hand because it has the perfect balance and weight.

While at it, the handle is made of a durable algum wood and accented with 115-grain copper heads to be practical, give you a good grip and look classy all at the same time.

As a nice touch, there are also a travel case and nice sharpening wax included in the pack. If you’re not satisfied with the product for whatever reason, you don’t have to worry.

This razor comes with a lifetime and money-back guarantee, so you can try it out and decide whether it works for you or not.

5. Feather SS

Meant mainly for more experienced straight razor users, Feather SS has exceptionally sharp stainless steel blades that cut hairs with surgical precision.

With just one passing, you get a close shave. If you want to get the best out of it and avoid getting cut, make sure to go slow and shave with the grain, then put a lather and shave against the grain.

Always go slow, don’t press the blade too hard and focus on the angle and technique and everything should be fine.

When the time comes, you can always replace the blade by just pinching the razor’s head, dropping out the used one and replacing it with a new blade.

The great thing is that the handle is made of heat resistant silicone resin and has an excellent grip. That way, you will have control over the shaving process the whole time.

There isn’t a protective cover for the blade included, but if you need one, the manufacturer offers the option of buying it separately.

6. A. P. Donovan

Coming in a decorative box made of real wood, A. P. Donovan Straight Razor has one of the finest Japenese steel blades.

However, the blade doesn’t come shave ready and you’ll have to hone it before the use. To do this right, make sure to use the abrasive strop wax.

The strop that comes with the product is rather small, so maybe you’ll want to use another one.

During the shaving, you’ll have complete control over the process, providing that the razor is almost lightweight and the handle gives a good grip.

Scratches on handle and blade are unabled thanks to the foam that’s inside and prevents this.

Although this shaving kit is pretty expensive, for the price, you’ll get not only the razor, but also a sharpening wax and brush, and all that packed in a real wood box.

7. Equinox Professional

The simple-to-open blade guard on Equinox Professional Razor allows you to safely and easily change the blades.

Speaking of the blades, you get 100 of them gratis along with the razor. These are all single edge Derby blades, each individually wrapped.

You can use one for two or three shaves, which means you get around 200 shaves at an affordable price.

As the key thing in a razor, the blade on this product is made of high-end Japanese stainless steel. On a side note, the blade tends to rust after you use it for some time.

Designed to be ergonomic, this item will give you a close shave and provide just about the right holding angle to avoid cuts and discomfort.

It’s good to know that you should gently squeeze the protection cap before you close it. This way, you’re securing that blades don’t fall out.

What Is This Tool Anyway

Anyone that enjoys their morning shaving routine but doesn’t already have a straight razor might want to consider bringing one into their home. But what exactly is a straight razor?

You’ve seen them in history textbooks and in movies or TV shows. A straight folding razor is one of the earliest methods of shaving, first used in England in the 17th century.

This device is essentially a sharp blade attached to a folding handle. It resembles a knife more than a contemporary shaver, and because of this earned the name the “cutthroat” razors.

Barbers throughout history used them to get the closest shave possible, but the more convenient safety and electric models replaced this method.

However, straight razors haven’t gone out of style.

Those that believe shaving is an art agree that the straight razor is not only the most effective way to shave but also the most stylish.

An entire culture has developed around straight razors, and many men even have their own initials engraved in their personal devices.

Straight razors have made a huge comeback, and therefore the market is flooded with style-conscious options to satisfy any shaving enthusiasts.

It’s important not to invest in an overly expensive design or novelty knock-off.

Instead of purchasing the first model that catches your attention, learn what exactly qualifies as a great straight razor with this comprehensive buyers guide.

Benefits of Using It

A straight razor often appears intimidating with its long and sharp design. However, you should not let its length and sharpness intimidate you or dissuade you from using it. It is because it carries many potential benefits – among which are the following:

Guarantees a Controlled and Precise Shave

Your straight razor will be able to give you a more controlled and precise shave than the one usually provided by traditional safety razors. It is also known for providing the closest possible shave, which you can’t seem to get from other alternatives. It is mainly because of the razor’s sharp edge, which guarantees maximum contact with your skin. The result is the smoothest and closest shave.

Prevents Common Beard Growth Issues

A straight razor also provides the advantage of being good for your skin. Note that other razors, such as the cartridge, tend to cut the facial hair beneath your skin. If that happens, then it might lead to the formation of shave bumps and ingrown hairs. If you use a straight razor, then expect the cuts to take place along the skin’s surface. With that, it can lower your risk of dealing with skin irritation.

Doesn’t Require Spending on Supplies

While the initial cost of buying a straight razor is quite high for some users, it is still a cost-effective investment. It is because it does not require you to spend a lot on its supplies once you start using it. You do not even need to buy expensive cartridges repeatedly just to be able to use it.

How Does It Work

A straight razor works by giving you a close and smooth shave with its single and sharp blade. The shave it can give you is super close and smooth without causing razor burn, irritation, and any other issues along the process. The good thing about the straight razor is that it functions or works in a way that you will have full control over the shave.

It is different from a cartridge razor, which does not usually give you the maneuverability and flexibility needed to adjust it based on your goal. A straight razor is more flexible and maneuverable, giving you the chance to let it perform based on the results you want. It works by letting you control its pressure, angle, and other factors that make it a truly decent product.

You will not have difficulty transitioning with the grain whenever your beard or facial hair begins to change direction. With a straight razor, you can begin moving with a grain even if it is in a different direction from where you initially started.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Environmentally friendly as it does not involve the use of any disposable items. It lets you do your facial grooming routines without any trash that can harm the environment.
• Does not cause skin irritation and other issues that might be linked to grooming a beard.
• Easy to control and maneuver around your face.
• Easy to maintain.

Cons

• More expensive than other razors.
• A bit hard to learn at first.

Types 

One thing you have to take note of regarding straight razors is that they come in different types. Among the different types of straight razors that you should familiarize yourself with are the following:

Square Point

One type of straight razor that you have to be aware of is the square point. Also called sharp or spike, this type features a square point blade with a fully straight edge or point profile. One advantage of this type is that it works precisely, although there are instances when using it may cause you to pinch the skin.

With that in mind, it is advisable to use it with care. A square point straight razor is also famous for making straight and clean cuts on your face. It can produce desirable results whether you plan to detail your mustache, sideburns, or beards. You will also find it effective for use when planning to shave small areas.

Barber’s Notch

Another popular type of straight razor is the barber’s notch. It has a round design accompanied by a tiny concave notch. The barber’s notch tends to work great when trimming your mustache by promoting ease in navigating the areas surrounding your nostrils.

Round Point

You can also pick the round point straight razor. It is a fantastic choice, especially if you are not that experienced when it comes to handling blades and using it for grooming and trimming your beard. It is mainly because this razor features a rounded edge, which lowers its risk of causing injuries.

The problem with the round point is that it might be harder to use when cutting around a precise edge. It usually compromises the pinpoint precision often delivered by the square point straight razor.

French Point

The French point comes with a blade that has a quarter-circle curve ending on a square point. It has a decorative style and performs almost similar to the straight razor with a square point.

The fact that it has a pointed toe, which curves upward to the blade’s head, also promotes ease in reaching areas that are otherwise hard to get into, like beneath the nose.

Spanish

Another straight razor that you have to check out is the Spanish blade. It also has a concave notch, making it quite similar to the barber’s notch straight razor. However, the two still differ in terms of the length of the notch.

It is because the one integrated into the Spanish blade is longer. You can also see the points at the head and toe to be more pronounced. With that, it has a higher risk of pinching if you do not use it with proper care.

Best Razor Blade Types

Despite these factors, a razor’s quality ultimately comes down to its blade. There are several important things to know about a razor blade that will impact your shave.

Blades are designed for all types of skin types and facial hair, so it’s important you know what to look for. Otherwise, you won’t find your match.

Point Type

Unlike electric shavers, safety shavers, or any other type on the market, straight razors are made with different blade qualities.

When you purchase a straight razor, you’re getting a singular type that’s unique among others.

The point type of a razor alters how the blade will run against your skin.

There are three types to consider.

Round Point

Pros: Smooth semicircular blade profile for beginners
Cons: Less precise blade profile with less shave closeness

This blade profile is semicircular rather than flat and harsh. It’s for beginners who need to adjust to their new shaving method.

It’s also for those weary of self-injury. Round blades are most forgivable against the skin. A razor with a round point is the best shaving razor for sensitive skin.

Square Point

Pros: Precise closeness, handles hard-to-reach spots
Cons: For advanced users only

Also known as a sharp blade, this blade profile is defined by sharp corners at the end of the razor. This is for advanced users who have experience shaving with a straight razor.

The sharp corner requires the delicate use and is effective for hard to reach spots and the closest shave possible.

French Point

Pros: Balance between round and square profiles for intermediate users
Cons: Not as smooth as round, not as precise as square

This blade profile takes qualities of the other two types. With a semicircular blade and sharp corners, this razor is really for intermediate users who can handle sharp points but still need to smooth out their stroke.

Point types are intended for various types of users. None of these types impact the quality of the blade, just how it will cut against the skin.

Width

Width specifically refers to the distance between the cutting edge and back of the blade.

Blade widths fluctuate between 1/8 increments. Blade width impacts whether a razor is precise or cumbersome to use.

While the width of the blade doesn’t impact the closeness of a shave if a user strops the blade to its intended sharpness.

Stropping is the process of making the blade sharper with leather material. Stropping keeps a razor as sharp as it’s supposed to be.

Smaller Width Blades

Pros: Easier to strop, better sightline, smooth shave
Cons: Less precise shave

Larger Width Blades

Pros: Exact and precise shave quality
Cons: Less sightline, more difficult to strop

A smaller blade is easier to strop and fine-tune. Smaller blades also give the shaver better sight when shaving. Without a large razor in the way, users can see clearly where the razor is touching their skin.

A large blade will provide a harsher shave. For experts, this is ideal, but for beginners, it will be difficult to see exactly where the blade is on the skin.

This will make it difficult to reach spots like under the nose.

Temper

All blades are measured by temper, which dictates how long a blade will stay sharp.

There are three temper types:

Hard Temper

Pros: Retains edge longer
Cons: Difficult to sharpen

Medium Temper

Pros: Easier to sharpen
Cons: Shorter-lasting edge retention

Soft Temper

Pros: Easiest to sharpen
Cons: Short-lasting edge retention

Blades with a hard temper will retain their edge for longer than a blade with a medium temper or soft temper.

Soft temper blades are easier to sharpen, even though they will become duller quicker than the hard temper blades.

Some enthusiasts believe that hard temper razors are better than soft because they retain sharpness. Others like to polish their razors consistently.

Temper is less of a standard for quality and should be based on personal preference. Would you rather have a sharp blade that will keep its longevity, or have constant control over how sharp your blade is?

At the end of the day, a sharp straight razor is an effective one. How long the sharpness lasts isn’t as important as whether it was made with a high-quality blade.

Grind

Not only do point profiles create various types of razors, but the grind of each razor effects shaving quality. Each blade is built with concave indentions called the grind.

The grind adjusts how sharp the blade is.

Hollow Grind

Pros: Flexible and swift for the fast shaving of light-medium length facial hair

Cons: Does not cut through thick hair

A hollow grind creates a thinner blade. This is a more flexible and swifter blade type that’s better for fast movement and precise shaving.

This is because the hollow grind has flexibility and can move easily along the curves of a face.

Hollow grind suits those with average length beards and light facial hair the best. Barbers use this grind type most often.

Wedge Blade

Pros: Thick razor type able to cut through thick and full facial hair

Cons: Lacks flexibility of movement and swiftness

This is a much thicker blade type that is difficult to master, but effective for those with thicker hair. It does not give a close of a shave as the hollow grind, but it will ultimately cut through tough hair better than the hollow grind.

How to Choose the Best One

Judging whether a straight razor is high-quality is arguably more complicated than learning how to actually use one.

There are certain models to avoid, but personal preference, as well as skin and hair type, plays the biggest role in determining what razor is right for each man.

A straight razor is a tool like a saw, drill, or car. Like any machine, its effectiveness is as good as its parts.

If a razor was improperly made or made with cheap materials, its effectiveness would be tarnished and buyers will be regretful.

When searching for an ideal straight razor for you, you’re likely to encounter models with cheap blades.

These products are more like toys than cutthroat tools and can be avoided if you know what to look for in a quality straight razor.

There are a few factors you can always consider when browsing for straight razors. These will always affect not only the sharpness of the razor but how it will feel on your skin.

Material

Straight razors are made with either stainless or carbon steel. Stainless steel is common among beginners because it’s less expensive and the sharpness lasts longer.

However, most enthusiasts use carbon steel. This is because carbon blades are made with overall higher quality.

If you’re a first-timer and still need to learn how to shave with a straight razor, a stainless steel model will be best because it’s a more affordable way to learn.

Once you’ve mastered your stroke, you’ll be ready to move up to carbon.

Vintage or Modern Style

If you’re attracted to antiques and have the pocket change to restore a vintage straight razor with contemporary swiftness, definitely consider investing in a vintage razor.

There is nothing quite like owning a piece of history, and with a few upgrades, your antique can be a long-lasting blade.

These blades can be bought internationally and restored for reasonable prices. This is only recommended for expert users.

Those who need experience should stick to modern style. They are built with new parts and better craftsmanship than antique razors.

Razor designers know they’re building models for a niche market of enthusiasts that value the quality of the product, so they make sure to build with care.

A modern blade will always be immediately in better condition than a vintage one. You won’t have to deal with rust or aging parts, which makes shaving extremely dangerous.

There are many modern razors on the market that are convenient and easy to use with contemporary style.

The most important advantage of modern blades is that you get to shop for specific blade and razor qualities intended to suit your skin best.

With an antique razor, you never know if the blade profile will be too harsh for your skin.

Blade Width and Type

Among the key factors, you ought to consider when shopping for a high-quality straight razor is the blade width and type. The blade types are the ones mentioned earlier, like the square, round, and barber’s notch. Figure out which one you think can give you the best results when shaving.

As for the width, note that it refers to the actual distance between the cutting edge and the blade’s back. The sizes differ from 9.5 mm to 22 mm. In some cases, the width can reach around 25 mm. If you are still a beginner in using a straight razor, then investing in one with a wider blade is advisable.

It is because a wider one can give you more surface area while letting you do multiple strokes before rinsing the area. However, take note that a straight razor with a narrower blade is more agile compared to one that is wider. With that, the wider one can be less precise. If you want to have the right balance, then go for one with a 16-mm blade.

Temper

Another factor to consider is the temper, which refers to the length of time the blade can retain its edge or the ease through which you can sharpen it. Note that the temper in blades comes in soft, medium, and hard. Generally, a blade with a hard temper is more effective in retaining its edge for a longer time. On the other hand, those with softer temper have the attribute of being easy to sharpen.

Traditional or Shavette

When shopping for a straight razor, you will also need to make your choice between a shavette and a traditional blade. You have to pick one based on which you think can give you a good and smooth shave.

The two have their own benefits and can give you a smooth and good shave, so it is up to you to decide which one you can maximize. The traditional one comes with a hinge where you can see the razor blade. It also features a handle. The blade is known for its sharpness and solid build.

If you are looking for a razor blade with a more hybrid look, then go for a shavette. This one is designed in a way that it resembles a straight razor’s shape. It utilizes replaceable blades similar to the ones integrated into safety razors. While the standard of shave it offers is not as good as the traditional ones, the shavette is still beneficial because it is low-maintenance.

Hone or Replace the Blade

Whether you need to hone or replace the blade prior to each shave is also a vital consideration when trying to find the most reliable straight razor in the market right now. If you already feel satisfied with honing the blade before using it for shaving, then you can go for the straight razor.

However, if you are not comfortable with just honing, then you may want to invest in a shavette razor, which features professional straight blades that you can replace anytime. The blades do not need to be sharpened nor honed since you have to replace them before each use.

Carbon or Stainless Steel

You also have to decide on which between the carbon and the stainless steel blade can give you more favorable benefits. If you are looking for a cheaper option, then the stainless steel material is ideal for you. It is because it is less expensive than carbon steel, which is the reason why a lot of replaceable blades are based on stainless steel. This material is also tough, lessening its need to be sharpened over its lifespan.

Meanwhile, carbon steel material is something that you can grind to sharpen its point. With its sharpness, you can expect it to result in a close and smooth shave. The problem with this material is that it is incapable of holding such an edge for the blade for a long time. It is the reason why you need to hone it better. It also needs to be sharpened more occasionally compared to the ones made of stainless steel.

Grind and Weight

You may also want to decide based on the grind and weight of the blade. The grind actually refers to the concave indentation that you can find on the blade. You can now find blades with a complete and hollow grind, improving the sharpness of the blade and making it a lot lighter. It is also possible to find those with less hollow grinds that do not have as much sharpness as the previous one. Those with less hollow grinds are more appropriate for beginners.

Country of Origin

The specific country where the straight razor came from can also influence your final buying decision. By checking its country of origin, you can better decide how good it is. This factor also somewhat has a say on the overall quality of the blade. If the straight razor you are thinking of buying comes from Japan, Germany, or the US, then it is highly likely that it is a good tool.

Limited Brands

You also have to know that there are now limited brands of straight razors at present. Among the brands known for creating high-quality straight razors are DOVO Solingen, P. Donovan, West Coast Shaving, Boker, Parker, and Feather. Consider checking out the products from these brands. Avoid those that did not make a mark in the industry yet as there is a chance that their construction is substandard.

Essential Complimentary Supplies

It is also advisable to learn about the essential complimentary supplies that you may need to use together with the straight razor. Note that you need these supplies to maximize the benefits of the razor.

Among the complimentary shaving supplies that can be used together with the straight razor are shave brush, scuttle, shave soap, razor stone, and shave cream. Make sure that you also have access to such complimentary supplies, so you will always have something to use to make the most out of your straight razor.

Price

The good thing about straight razors is that most of them are reasonably priced. Although there are high-end ones that are priced higher than usual, such prices are still usually within the budget of most users. However, this does not mean that you have to neglect price when it comes to making a decision. You still have to decide on how much you intend to spend on the razor. Make sure that the quality is not neglected, too.

How to Shave With It

Before you press your new straight razor to your face, it’s critical that you know how to use your new model.

Shaving with a straight razor isn’t anything like using safety or electric razor. It requires precision and experience.

Unlike an electric shaver, you can’t just run a sharp blaze across your face leisurely. If you’re new to this, your first shave will be intimidating.

But if you follow these steps, you’ll get the hang of it in no time.

Here are the basic steps all straight razor users should follow for a close, refreshing shave.

Step 1 – Take a hot shower first

This is an additional preliminary step that will make your morning shave more enjoyable.

Not only does the hot water clean your skin in preparation for shaving, but it also relaxes your body and gets you in the mood for a soothing experience.

Step 2 –  Wipe your razor clean and wash hands

This step is easy to skip, and many men often overlook it, but your razor is a tool like any other that needs to be maintained and disinfected for the best use.

The razor should be wiped down with a rag and cleaning solution to clear away bacteria. This treats not only your razor but also your skin.

Step 3 – Apply pre-shaving oils and shaving cream

Beard shavers use a variety of lubricating creams and pre-shaving oils to prepare for a razor’s edge.

These lubricating measures protect the skin against the blade and allow the razor to glide across the face smoothly.

You might already be accustomed to shaving cream, but consider investing in a pre-shaving oil-based cream before applying your current cream brand.

Pre-shaving oils are designed specifically for razor blade protection and decrease the likelihood of cuts.

Not sure what the best oils are? Many high-quality products can be purchased through online retailers and at your local barbershop.

Step 4 – Position razor

It’s time to use your razor! To use it properly, grab both sides by its edges and pull it apart until it locks into an L shape. Be careful not to press your fingers against the blade.

Once it’s in position, place your pointer and middle fingers on top of the shank (the metal finger placement area that has grip-protected scales), and your thumb should hold the razor in place under the shank.

Step 5 – Shave with steady strokes

Lift the razor to the top of your face and work down, following the natural direction of your hair’s growth. Lightly push the skin apart to ensure the razor reaches the hair thoroughly.

When you reach your nose and chin, lift up these areas to reach under.

Step 6 – Re-lather and repeat

If it’s time to switch to your other side, continue to use your dominant hand for control. Don’t try to teach both hands to work the same way. Make sure you reach commonly forgotten areas like under the chin.

Step 7 – Apply aftershave

Once your face is spotless, run hot water over your face and apply an alcohol-free aftershave. This is an important step towards moisturizing the skin and preparing it for the next shave.

Step 8 – Rinse

Just because you clean your razor before use doesn’t mean you don’t have to clean it afterward. Thoroughly run the razor under warm water and run it against a dry towel.

These steps might seem straightforward, but once you press the razor to your face for the first time you’ll realize how powerful the tool is that you’re using.

Learning how to shave is like learning how to ride a bike for men. You’ll need time to learn how to become an artful shaver, but it will come with practice.

There are a plethora of handy videos that show shavers using their own razors. Turn to the Art of Shaving for additional tips and examples on how to use yours.

How to Sharpen a Straight Razor

So you’ve bought your first razor, started using it, and are getting better each morning with daily use. You’ll start to notice that your blade isn’t giving you the closest shave as it did when you first used it: how do you make it sharper?

There are two methods that both work to sharpen a razor: using a leather strop and a whetstone.

Sharpening With a Leather Strop

A strop is the most common method of sharpening a razor. Stropping polishes the edge of a blade and re-aligns it to its correct angle. Stropping should take place once a month.

It’s very important that you learn how to strop carefully to avoid damaging your fingers, the strop, or razor.

Follow these steps closely to strop correctly:

Step 1 – Hang your strop securely

In order to slide your razor across the strop best, you’ll need to hang it on a