After reading this thread I went on a quest, of sorts, to find an enjoyable method of shaving. First off, I HATED shaving, and would either grow a beard or just shave once or twice a week. It always seemed to irritate my skin to a point of soreness no matter the razor I tried.

I searched around and finally found what I think is a very enjoyable experience when it comes to shaving. I started out with a cheap boars brush and some VDH shaving soap, bought from Walmart. I kept using the 5 blade contraption I had with the brush and soap. That alone was a much better experience so I took it a bit farther and got to looking at traditional double edge razors.

This lead me to purchasing an Edwin Jagger D89 and an Edin Jagger Best Badger Brush along with some Proraso Shave Cream. When it come to blades after trying several different brands I settled on the Red Pack Personna blades.

I can honestly say not only do I enjoy shaving now; I actually look forward to it every day.

Wow, Rick. It seems complex.

Are there English Tube Amps involved?

That's great Wid. Glad to hear it is working out for you!

Are you getting as close a shave?

It is a bit involved but enjoyable. I do get a very close shave with only two passes.

No tube amps needed

I'm considering taking the first step of this journey you just made.

I've changed my beard to a goatee a couple of weeks ago and am getting used to feeling smooth cheeks. re where I could go several days without shaving before, now I have to stay on top of it.

I tried JPs suggestion to shave twice...once with and then once against the grain. I'm surprised it's not irritating me, though my neck still gets bothered sometimes.

I also go one with the grain and once against. Using the DE razor you end up with a very smooth shave. Oh I forgot to mention, I do use a shave balm after rinsing with cold water.

It's a great way to shave. My nephew has started doing the same and says he can't believe how much better his shaves are.

And for my 1000th post, I quote you this! No comeback required.

Thank you, thank you... I'm here all week, please tip your waitress.

Seriously, it's been a great 1000 posts, and I enjoy Mark immensely, his square room, and all of the rest of you nuts!

Congratulations Mr. Roode ... I suppose your commemorative 1000th post is something like dragging cold sharp steel across warm flesh while you're still mostly asleep. It's amazing we're all still here.

I don't even know what that means.