#almostmastered

A little basic info on pipe smoking.

A few things I forgot to mention:

At first it's probably best to smoke for 15 minutes or so at a time. Pipes need a breaking in period while carbon builds up in the bowl to protect the briar. You can load a pipe up and smoke over the course of a few days.

Don't let tobacco sit in a pipe for more than a few days, I've found that bad flavours can develop. Once you're done, clean the pipe out with a pipe tool or a nail if you're careful. Run a pipe cleaner through it a couple times too.

Start your day with an adrenaline rush!

Shaving tends to be a dull part of a man's morning routine. You drag some contraption with 7 blades across your face, or make 900 passes with a buzzing machine, and end up with a sub-par shave and razor rash. 

But it doesn't need to be like that! Shaving can be awesome. I never lie.

OPTION 1: The Cut-Throat 

I know everyone shudders and thinks Sweeney, but forget that for just a moment. The fact is, straight razor shaving is excellent for your skin, gives a closer shave and less rash, is cost effective and planet friendly. Sure, it take some skill, but the learning is worth it. Sure, it costs a bit to get started, but once you're set up you're pretty much set for life. And there's something incredibly empowering about the whole experience!

OPTION 2: The Double Edge

This is a slightly toned down option if you want a good shave with less risk and cost. Classic double edged razors still offer a much better shave than anything modern. Seriously. The blade exfoliates your skin without irritating it so you start the day feeling fresh, not raw. SCORE. There's still some skill involved -  you need to get angles right as the blade doesn't move by itself, but it's quickly learned. And you're less likely to carve your face up than with the first option. Again, it s a greener shave than those nasty disposable or electric razors.

Whatever you do - get rid of that filthy canned gunk you rub all over your face! Canned shaving foam is full of propellants that dry out your skin so has to compensate with all sorts of gimmicky moisturisers. Forget it! Opt for a brush and a bowl. Whipping up your own shaving cream is easy and gives a much nicer result. The creams are cheap and last for ever - try palmolive, and using hot water gets you a lovely soothing lather for manly chin.

If you're unsure, drop into a real barber and get him to give you a proper shave - see if that doesn't convince you!

Art Of Manliness has some great resources on shaving. check this great video out!