Different ways to hold a straight razor
Background
There are many useful grips we use to hold a straight razor. This list is not complete and can be fulfill by each user. Each of us has our own best ways to shave with straight and many grips have different variations. Best way to find out what works for you is to try and practice. Notice that some grips could feel uncomfortable at first but don't let it deject you. Some grips works better at the opposite side of the face and others at the same side of the face. All grips have shown with right hand and naturally they all work just like the same with left hand for those who shave with both hands. For single hand shavers might have a bunch of own variations and new grips what they can add here to extend the collection.
Grips
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Grip 1. This is basic grip which is useful for downward strokes (with the grain passes, WTG)
Grip 2. Variation of the grip 1. Also pinky is over the back of the blade
Grip 3. Like grip 1 but razor has pointed towards the sky. Useful for sideways strokes (across the grain passes, XTG)
Grip 4. Useful grip for sideways strokes (across the grain passes, XTG)
Grip 5. Like grip 1 but razor has flipped upside down. Useful for upward strokes (against the grain passes, ATG)
Grip 6. Variation of grip 5
Grip 7. Variation of grip 5
Grip 8. Variation of grip 5
Grip 9. Here is another variation of grip 5 which is useful with the grain passes, WTG. Thanks The Dude
Grip 10. Same like grip 9 but razor flipped upside down to do a job in against the grain passes, ATG)
Other things to mention
I would like to suggest that keep your wrist flexible and let your grip live a little bit; not too strong, not too weak, but enough that the razor remains secure between your fingers during shaving. Try to follow different angles of your face and try to keep the blade angle steady. Notice that in different parts of your face you must turn the blade more to keep the angle the same. If you feel that the blade is not steady in your hands you can always support the blade with the other hand. This is recommended especially against the grain passes, ATG in upper lip and goatee area. Beware not to add pressure if you support the blade with other hand. Do not try to rush to your learning or get the smooth shave immediately. Learn peacefully how you can use different grips in each part of your face and the smoothness comes itself by time.
Discussions
Certain aspects of using a razor have been discussed in greater detail on the SRP forum. Below is a list of some of these discussions:
Videos
Here is also a link to the video section where you can see several ways to use different grips and great shaving techniques with both hands and single hand users.
TonyJ 14:52, 28 February 2009 (UTC)
