Disposable straights..with DE blades

[rickyken]

He Guys,

I've heard that there are straights out there that use a DE balde (split in half)

Anyone know anything about them, pictures, brands, where to buy?

Would love to hear if anyone has used them and their thoughts.

Thanks

[TraderJoe]

As a matter of fact - I just bought one, and received it the other day (though mine has white "scales").

http://www.appletonbarbersupply.com/store/graphics/00000003/magicrazor43.jpg

MAGICRAZOR
Price: $7.75

Got it from Appleton Barber Supply (http://www.appletonbarbersupply.com/store/merchant.mv?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=ABS&Product_Code=MAGICRAZOR&Category_Code=SHAP01)

I plan to use it for the first time this weekend, and I'll let you know how it goes :happy088

[rickyken]

LOL...hey now thats good timing.

Look forward to hearing how it goes. What DE blade will you be using?

Do you know where I could find a picture with the blade inserted?

Thanks again and good luck

[TraderJoe]

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u239/TraderJoe_album/magicrazor.jpg

Dude - I gave this razor a go tonight - and I lost. Bad. Tore my face up something fierce. This is probably due more to skill/technique (or lack thereof) with a straight razor.....

Couple comments (and they may be inter-related):

1) Blade doesn't seem snug. Not tight/clamped down like a Feather AC (or a DE for that matter)

2) Works well with the grain

3) Works really bad against the grain (could be a factor of the Derby blade)

4) If the razor gets caught up while making a stroke - STOP....do not force through any friction. Blood will flow.


I'm going to try this razor a few more times before it heads to the chopping block :D

[rickyken]

:eek:

Thanks for posting the great pic!!
Damn...sorry to hear that...now ya got me scared.

Have you ever shaved with a straight before, I've read that these type of "DE turned straight" are less forgiving than a normal straight cause the blades are so thin/sharp???

I can't get a good shave without going against the grain, so this really scares me.

Aren't these the type of razors that barbers use?...probably another brand like the Feather though...

[Queen of Blades]

Welcome to The Shave Den Rickyken!

What should we call you; Ricky or Ken? :confused:

[TraderJoe]

Have you ever shaved with a straight before, I've read that these type of "DE turned straight" are less forgiving than a normal straight cause the blades are so thin/sharp???


I have shaved with a Feather AC (but never a "real" straight), and this one was definitely less forgiving...even though the Feather AC blades were sharper. With the grain, there's no problem at all....but the combination of not-so-taught blade and tame-sharpness of the Derby -> led to trouble against the grain.

So, I'd buy "thin" part of what you heard, but not the "sharp" part.


Aren't these the type of razors that barbers use?...probably another brand like the Feather though...

Most likely a razor like it or very similar (Dovo makes one too, probably higher quality). I know some of my barbers do indeed use a similar razor to clean up the sideburns and bottom of neck....and my skin gets really smooth.


Let me say this - the shave I got with this thing was rather brutal....but there's a few factors at play. Namely, my prep work was slim to none, I could have used a sharper blade, and my technique is lacking. That said, my face is healed nicely today...so I'll be shaving again ::git

[rickyken]

Thanks Queen of Blades

Ricky would be fine


Welcome to The Shave Den Rickyken!

What should we call you; Ricky or Ken? :confused:

[rickyken]

Ya the fact that the blade wasn't held very tight/taught sounds like a nightmare...like holding a DE blade between your fingers..OUCH

Will be been keenly interested to know how well the next few shaves go with it...and glad to hear you've healed well from the last shave

[bearbeard]

how do you get those blades into two parts. tin snips or do you just fold them in half? if the latter, how do you keep from nicking the edge of the blade.

[TraderJoe]

how do you get those blades into two parts. tin snips or do you just fold them in half? if the latter, how do you keep from nicking the edge of the blade.

I folded it in half - while it was still in the wrapper....it was actually very simple to do, minus the big gash in my finger now. No just kidding, I held the blade at the ends, pursed the sides until it bent enough to finally break in 2. Nothing to it ;)

[Jim]

I started with a Dovo Rassett (sp?)a while ago, the Dovo did hold the blade well. Because I did get some good shaves with it, I went on to the Feather.

I think the one you have pictured is for trimming hair at the barbers and touch ups, not "shaving".

Heres a photo of it if it helps (http://www.badgerandblade.com/gallery/showimage.php?i=3595&c=74)

[madmedic]

I know some of my barbers do indeed use a similar razor to clean up the sideburns and bottom of neck....and my skin gets really smooth.

My local barber does straight shaves using one of those. While I have never had one myself........I know some who has......and a pretty good job was done!

[bearbeard]

I folded it in half - while it was still in the wrapper....it was actually very simple to do, minus the big gash in my finger now. No just kidding, I held the blade at the ends, pursed the sides until it bent enough to finally break in 2. Nothing to it ;)

Thanks Joe!!!

[Pauldog]

The name I've heard for the Dovo razor of this kind (split DE blade) is the Shavette.

Most of the other razors of this type are made for neckline trimming rather than shaving the face.

[bearbeard]

The name I've heard for the Dovo razor of this kind (split DE blade) is the Shavette.

Most of the other razors of this type are made for neckline trimming rather than shaving the face.

Thats it!!! the shavette. what up pauldog? welcome to theshaveden.

[rickyken]

Hi Pauldog,

So would say that there isn't a razor like this out there that should be used for shaving?
I was hoping to find a pseudo straight like this so I wouldn't have to deal with the honing etc. I know for most, thats part of the enjoyment, and down the road I'd like to get into it as well, but just not now.
I currently use a DE.

Thnaks


The name I've heard for the Dovo razor of this kind (split DE blade) is the Shavette.

Most of the other razors of this type are made for neckline trimming rather than shaving the face.

[bearbeard]

I just ordered a shavette!!!! Two reasons mainly......cost, and the fact that I have never stropped or honed a razor in my life!(don't want to screw up a perfectly good blade)

Anyone have any suggestions on how it shaves compared with a real str8?

If I enjoy using it enough then I will probably make the jump into a straight razor.

[msandoval858]

I've never shaved with one but my barber does all the time. I had him do a shave one day and it wasn't bad, though that's not a good review since I wasn't the one doing the cutting.

From what I can tell if you want to skip the stropping and honing part and get the feel of straight, you'd probably be better off investing in a Feather AC. If you don't like it, I'm sure another member would be more than happy to take it off your hands so you wouldn't be out a lot of $$.

[GollyMrScience]

I am in the middle of a similar enterprise. My barber uses the "magic" razor as you show for everything to do with hair, neck and regular shaving. He does very well. He did emphasize to me that I need to check them out because some can be loose. Many barbers have switched to this type of razor because of AIDs issues.
I am trying to source a Hess EZY Shave here in Canada. They are an interesting unit looking very much like a real straight and they take both standard injector blades and the longer hair trimmer blades. I want to compare the stiffer injector blades against the halved DE blades. Unfortunately the Hess sells for 29 dollars US in the States but the shipping from the dealer I found wants to charge another $29 to ship it to Canada. A bit pricey. Still looking for one used or a distributor in Canada.

[crackstar]

oh, man....when you talk about Feathers, it scares the hell out of me. I can never forget what a Feather did to me acouple of years ago. 2 terrible gashes on my left cheek, and a big gash on my chin. I got so sick to my stomach, that I couldn't eat, or even look at food. I also couldn't shave for a week. Thank God, those gashes healed perfectly, but I was a mess and a wreck.

[rickyken]

Here is an interesting review of a disposable razor...seems like it might be a better style using the clamp to hold the blade more securely in place.

Anyone ever use one?

Review HERE (http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=17270&highlight=sanguine)

[Damon]

I have a Tondeo for sale that I used before getting a stropping blade, it originally cost me fifty dollars but I will take $25.00 + shipping if you are interested attached is a photo what I like about it is the edges of the blade are protected and help keep you from cuts, they are like training wheels. The shave it gives is great and because of the way it is made I was able to strop the blade to get a extra few shaves on each blade. It's very sturdy.

The size blade it takes is the size of a DE blade but they are called Tondeo TCR Blades here is a link to the blades.
http://www.cool-blades.co.uk/product.php?productid=39&cat=8&page=1

TCR Blades link two http://www.haarshop.nl/default.asp?part=product_details&subject_id=858&page=1&subject=2&subject_refine_id=0\

Here is a link to a new Tondeo razor.
http://www.haarshop.nl/default.asp?part=product_details&subject_id=857&page=2&subject=1&subject_refine_id=152

[rickyken]

I got a couple of clip style razors, the one with the hinge is extra cool :cool:

Sorry for the poor quality pics

http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/5773/razor4br6.th.jpg (http://img227.imageshack.us/my.php?image=razor4br6.jpg)
http://img179.imageshack.us/img179/4222/razor3uq8.th.jpg (http://img179.imageshack.us/my.php?image=razor3uq8.jpg)
http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/5152/razor2kp4.th.jpg (http://img167.imageshack.us/my.php?image=razor2kp4.jpg)
http://img167.imageshack.us/img167/5324/razor1ou6.th.jpg (http://img167.imageshack.us/my.php?image=razor1ou6.jpg)

[TraderJoe]

I got a couple of clip style razors, the one with the hinge is extra cool :cool:



Sweet :happy088 Have you shaved with any of those yet?

[rickyken]

I "tried" :ashamed001

I have never used a straight, or a "shavette" as I believe these are often called, but gave it a go and I only got one side of my face WTG pass, and that was enough. Type O blood is a precious commodity and I didn't want to lose anymore than I already did with half a pass.

I had similar results when I started with a DE so I guess it will take some time to master.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated

Ricky


Sweet :happy088 Have you shaved with any of those yet?

[TraderJoe]

Any advice would be greatly appreciated

Ricky

Better luck next time, bud.

I found this advice helpful (though I'm waiting for some trial razors to put it into practice):

The feather razors (a fresh one at least) will be pleanty sharp to give you a clean shave and comfortable. The discomfort that you expereinced might have been for a number of reasons:

- There is a tendency to push down on the razor when shaving, which is not necessary for a straight razor (if it's sharp enough, and I'm, again, assuming that the 'feather' was - their new/fresh blades are pleanty sharp too). This will cause you to get a razor burn (or basically remove a few layers of skin). You might have to hold back when shaving with these (versus push down), and let the edge do the work. Light and easy....

- Also, the angle of the blade is not the same as that of a DE razor (the DE shaves almost like a rake across the skin, perpendicular...at least that is what you see - despite the angle of the blade that the holder bends the blade). The blade should be held at about a 30-45 degree angle from the skin (in that, holding the blade flat against the skin, lift the spine away - keeping the edge on the skin - so that the spine is 30 degrees away...I don't recommend doing this, since, if you have slightly shaky hands, that edge on the skin will be slightly shakey too!:eek: This description of 30 degrees was for referance purposes...I know, I drink too much coffee and have slightly shakey hands).

- AND, the technique of pulling the skin tight, and being familiar with the straight razor (angle/pressure(or lack of)/etc...) takes a little time to learn. It IS a little different from shaving with a DE, even if there are the same considerations.

- Plus, from what I have heard, every blade has a different seration pattern along the edge (especially for straight razors that were honed by different people on perhaps different hones, there will be different score patterns forming the edge of the blade....this might not matter for the 'feather' blade, but it may in that 'feather' might make the blade edges in a slightly different manner than the blade in your DE razor you are use to). You skin has to get use to this edge, and will over time.

Don't give up on the straight razor with just one sore shave. With a little practice it will surpase the DE. HOWEVER, there IS mantinence with a straight razor that you might not want to deal with. This is where the DE might be for you, since you can just slap in a fresh edge and not have to deal with strops and hones....(however, the 'feather' will also be the same mantinence though as a DE, so there would be NO excuse :mad: ).

Anything worth learning takes a little practice (I'm told :))

Good luck!! ::
C utz

[rickyken]

Thanks for the post Joe.

[fritz]

I have a Dovo Shavette and use it once in a while, when the mood strikes me. I started out wet shaving like most people my age with a Gillette DE, but started using straights when I was about 20, about until I turned 23. Then the birth of our first child got my wife somewhat terrified as to what could happen if the kid got into my razors.... I must admit it gave me some concern too. I also had discovered that getting to work every morning at 8 sharp with a good clean shave was a lot easier using a DE than the str8. In college, I could show up for my 10:00 am class unshaven, but not any more!

I don't have the red holder that uses a regular DE blade snapped in half; I suspect that that might not be the best blade to use in this setup. It's too short, and probably too flexible. I have the black holder that uses a special about 3-inch long DE blade that is also snapped in half. I also have the green holder that holds blades that look like long Shick Injector blades, mounted in a metal stifffener sort of like a single-edge razor. Those work best for me.

I can get just as good a shave with my small multitude of razor, blade, lather, and brush combinations as I could ever get from a str8. Without the additional hassle and time of maintaining the str8. So aside from just nostalgia, what's the point? Oh, I know, there's that rush you get from the smooth, sleek steel slicing through your whiskers... well my Dovo does just fine in that regard when I feel I need that...:D

I do think that if you can learn to get a good shave with a Dovo Shavette, then you can probably do so with a str8 that's shave-ready. Then you can start figuring out how to keep it shave-ready. If you can't get a good shave with a Shavette, you probably should save your money.

[coolblades]

has any one compaired Sanguine Shavette Razors with Dovo Shavettes?

[mastermute]

Welcome coolblades!

[Queen of Blades]

Welcome to The Shave Den, coolblades!

I'm sure someone will be along soon to answer your question, if anyone can.

[Padron]

Welcome Coolblades!

Wow,

I forgot about this thread...I was thinking I would like to try one of these shavette's sometime...They would be a lot different from a traditional straights. I think Joe is really liking his Feather DX razor...makes me sad I sold mine without trying it :(

[mastermute]

I think Joe is really liking his Feather DX razor...makes me sad I sold mine without trying it :(

You can get a new one >here< (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4739) :p

[Padron]

You can get a new one >here< (http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4739) :p

Thanks Johan,

Maybe someday I'll buy another one and actually buy some blades and use it :o

[tjgriffin]

has any one compaired Sanguine Shavette Razors with Dovo Shavettes?

I practice "straight" shaving with a Sanguine CoolCut. Load it with a Feather ProGuard, and more recently Pro Super, blades. They're a bit longer than the holder, so I position it so the extra blade hangs off the bottom.

I think in a Sanguine, there isn't much difference between Feather Pro and the Pro Super. In a Feather AC razor, the main difference is exposure, but in the Sanguine the edge is so far out there, I don't think it matters. The ProGuards are wire wrapped so they're a little safer.

I used the Dovo months ago and wasn't really happy with it. But it was the first time I'd ever tried a "straight." I might give it another spin.

There is definitely a Feather AC, most likely non-folding, in my future...

[TheDouglasJBarber]

Don't buy that Hess! They are only good for the back of the neck shaves. I am a barber so I know. Get a Feather Artist RG and buy the Feather blades to go with it. It's the best I have found to shave men's faces with.

[TG_Charles]

Schick Japan is now selling a disposable straight razor that is actually for use by men to shave their face. I say that because most disposable straights sold here are for women to use on their neck, eye brows, and such. Pack of 3 for about $3.00

http://www.schick-jp.com/mens/products/l_dispo.html

I bought a pack yesterday and I’m contemplating using them on the weekend.

[Queen of Blades]

Schick Japan is now selling a disposable straight razor that is actually for use by men to shave their face. I say that because most disposable straights sold here are for women to use on their neck, eye brows, and such. Pack of 3 for about $3.00

http://www.schick-jp.com/mens/products/l_dispo.html

I bought a pack yesterday and I’m contemplating using them on the weekend.
Wow! Now that's interesting! :eek:

Waiting on the full report. :happy088

[Lucy7]

I also have the green holder that holds blades that look like long Shick Injector blades, mounted in a metal stifffener sort of like a single-edge razor. Those work best for me.

Do you know where to get those kinds of blades?

[Padron]

Do you know where to get those kinds of blades?

I am not sure what ones your looking for.....

maybe this place (http://www.appletonbarbersupply.com/store/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=ABS&Category_Code=SHAP01) has them? :)

[tjgriffin]

They Fromm blades for hair styling razors. I think Classic carries them. They are not hard to find.

[fritz]

Do you know where to get those kinds of blades?
You can get the Fromm blades from lots of places. I got mine from Classicshaving.com because I needed the green holder as well. The blades are here (http://www.classicshaving.com/catalog/item/522941/196023.htm), and the holders are here (http://www.classicshaving.com/catalog/item/522941/286134.htm), with a very helpful picture of the three different holders and blades.
Once you know what you're looking for, Sally Beauty Supply carries some blades made by Personna, that will fit the green holder. Less expensive, too.

While the packaging says "Hair Shaper" blades, they work just fine for shaving. Careful, they are really sharp!

[lvbarber]

The Hercules or the Monsieur Charles are good choices. The MC takes good old fashioned injector blades. The Hercules is a copy of the Tondeo. I use straights from my personal collection. I was a barber for many years and once straights were outlawed I switched to the MC and the Hercules in the shop. I don't like the Hess, I would like to try a Feather AC. The MC has plastic scales and it looks like a straight. The Hercules is all stainless and the blade is longer. It uses Hercules or Tondeo blades and you break them in halve. To me the MC seems balanced and the weight is more realistic. Nothing beats the real deal though.

[herzi]

The only one I like is this one
http://www.coma.it/Foto1/FM_0211.jpg

The weight of this one is between the weight of a 5/8 and a 6/8 straight. So it provides me smooth shaves.
Unfortunately I have only seen it at coma.it and they don't have a webshop.
For more pictures click here
http://www.gut-rasiert.de/forum/index.php?topic=1019.0

[Navaja]

I have a DOVO Shavette with the black insert and I use DOVO blades, they are made for each other. The shaves are excellent but it's easier to get nicks and cuts with these blades than with a regular str8. I get a very smooth shave with only 2 passes, WTG and ATG, and it's an excellent tool for traveling.

[JayKay]

Madshears, you might want to go introduce your self in the vendors section. Wouldnt want people to think your spamming.

Classic shaving carries the fromm blades (http://www.classicshaving.com/catalog/item/522941/249408.htm). They also sell a whole bunch of different shavettes.

[Queen of Blades]

Madshears, you might want to go introduce your self in the vendors section. Wouldnt want people to think your spamming.


They can't. They don't have enough posts. Participation is required of vendors if they wish to be here as vendors. That means 25 posts in the rest of the forum, before they can post in the Vendors Corner.

[JayKay]

Ooooo. I wasnt aware. Good thing I'm not a mod.

[Queen of Blades]

Ooooo. I wasnt aware. Good thing I'm not a mod.

We'll have to step up your training. :p

The thing is, it isn't free to run TSD. Coming in and trying to get free advertising isn't right. Give back to the site, through participating, and we're good.

[JayKay]

I like to think I give back with my witty insights :D

[Michael]

I like to think I give back with my witty insights :D

groan

[Queen of Blades]

I like to think I give back with my witty insights :D

Of course you do, sweetie. <pat on the head smilie> :D