When holding a straight, do folks rest their ring finger on the tang, or pinky. I've seen it both ways in photos, and wanted to get a sense of whether there's a preferred technique.
I may be the odd one out here but I rest my ring finger on the tang and my pinkie underneath. Just feels comfortable and gives me the sense of more control (don't know if it actually does though).
For me it depends a bit on the razor but I'm fond of pinching the blade itself with my thumb and forefinger (kinda how a chef holds a chefs knife), allowing the rest of the fingers to find a spot where they are comfy. I have however worked at using the gimps when possible and seem to have just as good a control but this leaves my pinky hanging....
Regards
Christian
Previously lost, on the way to the pasture. Now pasteurized.
I think it might depend to some extent on the size of your hands. I have small-to-medium hands, and my little finger is on the top of the tang. But if your hands are very large, you might find the ring finger more comfortable.
I don't think there's a "wrong" way, but I'm ready to be corrected.
Although I am clearly NOT an expert on straights - I use my ring finger on the tang not my pinkie. If you review the pictures in the Moss "handbook", I believe he shows using the pinkie on the tang - this is just not natural for me.
Not sure one or the other is "correct" - perhaps more experienced opinions are needed on this subject.
Best ... Steve
To want what I have
To take what I'm given with grace
For this I pray
I remember doing both. Usually it's whatever feels comfortable and solid, most often ring finger. Can't remember the barber textbooks, but I say it does depend on razor geometry and your hands, obviously. And I'd rather feel comfortable and confident than do it by the book
When going against the grain I hold the shank between my thumb and forefinger. As others have mentioned, whatever is most comfortable, gives you a good shave and no blood.
rustyblade wrote:I may be the odd one out here but I rest my ring finger on the tang and my pinkie underneath. Just feels comfortable and gives me the sense of more control (don't know if it actually does though).
I think that is the key! Do what feels comfortable. You know, the old saying, "if it feels good, do it!" For me it depends on the size of the razor.
Randy
"I won't be wronged. I won't be insulted. I won't be laid a-hand on. I don't do these things to other people, and I require the same from them." J. B. Books