Reverse Shim
From what I’ve read around the shaving forums, there are some ready to sell their newly acquired Blackbirds. Others have discovered, through technique and experimentation, the optimum angle – which some are observing resides within a small window; that is, the “sweet spot” is rather small and difficult to find. If one shaves too shallow, they feel the top cap. If they shave too steep (the handle closer to the face), there is a risk of getting a “paint-scraper” effect.
Although I think it’s best for most to experiment and find that optimum angle, I went about it a different way, and I now enjoy very nice, smooth and close shaves – and with a much larger shaving angle “sweet-spot”.
I know this is kind of unorthodox but it worked for me. Some may even view this as hokey. But I figured I would throw it out there as an FYI.
I first cleaned the top-cap with 91% isopropyl alcohol, and thoroughly dried it. I then applied two very narrow strips of electrical tape, one on top of the other, length-wise on both sides of the underside of the top-cap, just before where the blade would daylight.
View attachment 8792
This “reverse shim” essentially provides some additional downward flex to the blade. As a result the blade gap and blade exposure is slightly reduced. It’s not a drastic change, but enough to make a difference. So by providing additional downward flex, you also slightly change the blade angle. In the pic the left side is unmodified, while the right side has the tape affixed to the underside of the top-cap.
View attachment 8793
Side note: I had to make sure that the tape was narrow enough to avoid getting too close to resting over the base-plate fulcrum. I found if you get too close or are on top of the fulcrum [when the head is assembled], the top cap actually rises upward, and that increases the gap, potentially making an even harsher shave. And I’m not sure how long the tape will remain affixed to the top-cap. For now, it’s on there pretty securely.
For me, this modification allowed me to steepen my shaving angle – and thus I was able to “get off the top-cap”, yet avoid any paint scraper harshness. The shave was close, and
very smooth. I was even able to shave some trouble spots, like ATG under my nose. I was also able to “roll-over” some angular areas like ATG going from the neck to the chin.
I’m not downplaying technique or proper prep and lathering. These items all contribute.
But for me, this rather quick fix has allowed me to freely add the BB to my rotation. I can shave without having to concentrate too much. I have NO thoughts of dealing the BB away. It’s a great razor. I enjoy it with my other stainless razors.
And again, I realize this approach sounds a bit strange, but I was in a tinkering mood, and for me – I was rewarded with a very nice shaver.