I received my polished Vector this morning, and this was the first time I've used an AC-style safety razor in several years. I have a couple Schick Prolines on hand, as well as one Kai Titan ProTouch. I just placed an order with TryAblade for a Feather Professional, Feather Pro Super***, Feather Pro Guard, Kai Captain Original and Kai Captain Sharpblade. First shave an hour ago was with a Proline.
I planned a typical 2+ pass shave. I went super light on the touch, as I am wont to do with a new razor/blade setup, much less a format that is largely foreign to me.
First (WTG) pass was intuitive as far as angle of attack; zero thought here, and as smooth as any sharp blade on my face has ever been. Good audible feedback.
Second (ATG) pass likewise, zero issues with light touch. Almost imperceptible pressure applied by sheer necessity of gliding the Vector upward. Quick face rinse, and my cheeks & neck as sooth as glass. As per usual, my problem areas, chin and mustache area (especially the latter where my stubble grows down as opposed to out), needed more work.
I applied more lather to the problem areas and buffed as I usually do. Here is where I had some issues, perhaps technique related. I was still reluctant to apply much pressure on my buffing strokes. I re-applied lather on these areas and re-buffed three more times, no exaggeration. I stopped while these areas were not quite DFS, in my estimation.
It's obvious to me that my second attempt needs to be more free-wheeling, with some pressure applied the first two passes, especially on my problem areas.
I want to be clear that while the result was not what one would hope, the in-shave experience was terrific. The Vector, a much lighter razor than I am used to using, was a joy to hold and maneuver. It's also quite the looker, IMO, something I appreciate as an admirer of design in general.
I have a titanium 92mmx11mm, 36g Tradere-esque handle by Stork on the way, and my plan is to try it with the Vector as the somewhat elongated neck should work aesthetically with the compact Vector head. I also just tend to prefer handles with knurling, no casting of aspersions at all regarding Shane's handle design.
I think I'm gonna have some fun, and eventually terrific shaves, with the Vector.
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***my last attempt with an AC razor involved a Feather Super....not great, buuuut, my first shave made me open up to the thought a Super might have some symbiosis with the Vector. Only way to know is to try.
I planned a typical 2+ pass shave. I went super light on the touch, as I am wont to do with a new razor/blade setup, much less a format that is largely foreign to me.
First (WTG) pass was intuitive as far as angle of attack; zero thought here, and as smooth as any sharp blade on my face has ever been. Good audible feedback.
Second (ATG) pass likewise, zero issues with light touch. Almost imperceptible pressure applied by sheer necessity of gliding the Vector upward. Quick face rinse, and my cheeks & neck as sooth as glass. As per usual, my problem areas, chin and mustache area (especially the latter where my stubble grows down as opposed to out), needed more work.
I applied more lather to the problem areas and buffed as I usually do. Here is where I had some issues, perhaps technique related. I was still reluctant to apply much pressure on my buffing strokes. I re-applied lather on these areas and re-buffed three more times, no exaggeration. I stopped while these areas were not quite DFS, in my estimation.
It's obvious to me that my second attempt needs to be more free-wheeling, with some pressure applied the first two passes, especially on my problem areas.
I want to be clear that while the result was not what one would hope, the in-shave experience was terrific. The Vector, a much lighter razor than I am used to using, was a joy to hold and maneuver. It's also quite the looker, IMO, something I appreciate as an admirer of design in general.
I have a titanium 92mmx11mm, 36g Tradere-esque handle by Stork on the way, and my plan is to try it with the Vector as the somewhat elongated neck should work aesthetically with the compact Vector head. I also just tend to prefer handles with knurling, no casting of aspersions at all regarding Shane's handle design.
I think I'm gonna have some fun, and eventually terrific shaves, with the Vector.
-------
***my last attempt with an AC razor involved a Feather Super....not great, buuuut, my first shave made me open up to the thought a Super might have some symbiosis with the Vector. Only way to know is to try.