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Based on advice from this board I decided to check out a Tampa Florida barbershop called Blackbeards. For those in the area the shop is located on South Dale Mabry (south of the Gandy Bridge) off of Dale Mabry (right next to the Home Depot). The shop is open to 7 on most week nights.

When I went in, Dan had a customer ahead of me so I had time to wait and think. My hair isn't really long; but it is about 3 inches on top and I usually have the sides clippered with a 3 or 4. Nothing very short at all.

When I was my turn I got in the chair and Dan wrapped the tissue tightly around my neck and caped me and asked me what I wanted.

I calmly replied that I wanted a short taper on the sides and back with it tighter around the ears and the hairline. Just a little off the top I said.

He asked me if I wanted to see some skin. I kinda gulped and said yes.

Away he went. He must have clippered for over 15 minutes. He stopped handed me the mirror and asked me if the sides were short enough. Without thinking I said they could be a little shorter.

He remarked. Ahh, you want a skin fade. No prob - coming right up.

After another 5 minutes of clipping he sprayed the top of my hair and started cutting it down.

I was totally un prepared for the outline straight razor shaved around the ears and neck. He shaved a smove line about an inch or so above my ears and neckline. It looks really cool. Very clean cut.

As he finished putting some wax on my hair he asked me if I wanted a shave. I said sure.

30 minutes later (after he shaved me 3 times with hot lather and hot towels), he applied aftershave, and a menthol splash.

The whole experience only cost 25 dollars. I can't believe I finally found a GREAT barber in Tampa, FLorida. I didn't think there was such an animal.

I will be back for a weekly shave and a haircut every other week.