ATT SE2 Reviews?

[q345]

Got a new Se2 plate today. Wrote to Stan couple of days ago, asking if they were available and he answered that if I place order for Se2 I would get a new one. That's indeed what happened. Stan's response time and customer service is absolutely the best! Regarding the plate itself, I am not a specialist in metal work, but I think the quality / finisg is outstanding.

Had a shave with it today and liked it very much. Got BBS using Feather Pro easily, while with Se1 I need to put Pro Super. Se2 fits original upper plate perfectly. It was my first shave ever with any OC !

I was hesitant to purchase first edition of Se2 because reviews mentioned is approximately the same agressivness as Se1, but the new edition is really different from Se1 ,. Expensive, 75$ with shipment just for plate, but stainless steel and quality costs, so no regrets.

 

[McVeyMac]

Disclaimer, I have used the ATT SE2 exactly 2.5 times including today's 1/2 shave, and the Asylum RX exactly 1/2 of a shave. I am of the belief that this is not enough experience to fully get the most from any razor. Having said this, the shave:

The Feather Pro blades arrived yesterday, and I could not wait to get the RX out of the box and take it for a spin. I determined to do a full 3 pass shave with it, the SE2 on the right side of the face, and the RX on the left. The SE2 was loaded with a Pro Super with two shaves on it, and the Rx had a fresh Pro blade. After the 3 passes the results were full BBS after a slight water cleanup with the RX in one particularly problematic spot on some scar tissue.

Comparisons: The SE2 is slightly heavier than the RX mainly because of the Colossus handle that I have on it. It is longer than the RX handle. The Kronos handle is actually shorter than the RX handle, so I stuck with the Colossus. The blade angle of the SE2 relative to the handle is closer to the 90 degrees relative to the RX, who's angle is significantly less than 90 degrees. I would rank these two razors as being equally aggressive with a similar blade feel on the face. In fact I even had had a slight irritation in the mustache area after the second ATG pass, but I had similar irritation with both razors. Note that the SE2 accepts the Pro Super blades whereas the RX will not. Had I had a Pro blade loaded in the SE2, I suspect that it would have felt less aggresive than the RX due to less blade exposure. The SE2 is the only open comb razor of the AC type single edge razor made to date. This fact might also add slightly to the aggressiveness of the SE2 compared to the closed comb SE1 counterpart. Either way, the two razors felt very similar with respect to how the blade feels on the face with respect to aggresiveness.

Conclusion: Both razors gave me as fine a BBS shave as I could ever expect immediately post shave where I can't discern any difference in the result between the two razors. Now at the end of the day, I will say that the longevity is better than my normal DE shave, but I have had straight razor grail shaves that had better longevity. The longevity of the left and right sides of my face are similar, further indicating that the performance of both razors was comparable in my hands. The ATT SE2 is very well machined, and is a quality product that will exist in my family for countless generations to come as long as Feather and/or KAI still make blades to fit it. The very same can be said of the RX. However, the unique design of the RX as well as the esthetics of the razor put it out in front in my book. I also like that the blade is angled less relative to the handle resulting in a very natural approach to the shave with an easily found optimal shaving angle, but I also had no problem finding the optimal angle with the SE2 either. I just like the RX angle better. The RX will set you back about $40 more than the ATT SE2 will with the bamboo handle, but if you already have ATT handles (or other suitable handles), the difference in price becomes $80. Is the unique design and aesthetics of the RX worth $40 to $80 more for a razor that does not perform any differently, at least in my hands? Perhaps so. I am glad the I have the Asylum RX. The only complaint I have with the RX razor is that the flared bottom of the handle does not allow it to fit into my stainless ATT razor stand. This does not surprise me, but it would have been a bonus if it would have fit.

I apologize for no pictures, but hopefully those of you who are familiar with both razors will have a mental picture of what I am talking about. Work and weather has been crazy, and I am lucky to get this posted on the same day as the shave.

 

[pbrmhl]

Disclaimer, I have used the ATT SE2 exactly 2.5 times including today's 1/2 shave, and the Asylum RX exactly 1/2 of a shave. I am of the belief that this is not enough experience to fully get the most from any razor. Having said this, the shave:

The Feather Pro blades arrived yesterday, and I could not wait to get the RX out of the box and take it for a spin. I determined to do a full 3 pass shave with it, the SE2 on the right side of the face, and the RX on the left. The SE2 was loaded with a Pro Super with two shaves on it, and the Rx had a fresh Pro blade. After the 3 passes the results were full BBS after a slight water cleanup with the RX in one particularly problematic spot on some scar tissue.

Comparisons: The SE2 is slightly heavier than the RX mainly because of the Colossus handle that I have on it. It is longer than the RX handle. The Kronos handle is actually shorter than the RX handle, so I stuck with the Colossus. The blade angle of the SE2 relative to the handle is closer to the 90 degrees relative to the RX, who's angle is significantly less than 90 degrees. I would rank these two razors as being equally aggressive with a similar blade feel on the face. In fact I even had had a slight irritation in the mustache area after the second ATG pass, but I had similar irritation with both razors. Note that the SE2 accepts the Pro Super blades whereas the RX will not. Had I had a Pro blade loaded in the SE2, I suspect that it would have felt less aggresive than the RX due to less blade exposure. The SE2 is the only open comb razor of the AC type single edge razor made to date. This fact might also add slightly to the aggressiveness of the SE2 compared to the closed comb SE1 counterpart. Either way, the two razors felt very similar with respect to how the blade feels on the face with respect to aggresiveness.

Conclusion: Both razors gave me as fine a BBS shave as I could ever expect immediately post shave where I can't discern any difference in the result between the two razors. Now at the end of the day, I will say that the longevity is better than my normal DE shave, but I have had straight razor grail shaves that had better longevity. The longevity of the left and right sides of my face are similar, further indicating that the performance of both razors was comparable in my hands. The ATT SE2 is very well machined, and is a quality product that will exist in my family for countless generations to come as long as Feather and/or KAI still make blades to fit it. The very same can be said of the RX. However, the unique design of the RX as well as the esthetics of the razor put it out in front in my book. I also like that the blade is angled less relative to the handle resulting in a very natural approach to the shave with an easily found optimal shaving angle, but I also had no problem finding the optimal angle with the SE2 either. I just like the RX angle better. The RX will set you back about $40 more than the ATT SE2 will with the bamboo handle, but if you already have ATT handles (or other suitable handles), the difference in price becomes $80. Is the unique design and aesthetics of the RX worth $40 to $80 more for a razor that does not perform any differently, at least in my hands? Perhaps so. I am glad the I have the Asylum RX. The only complaint I have with the RX razor is that the flared bottom of the handle does not allow it to fit into my stainless ATT razor stand. This does not surprise me, but it would have been a bonus if it would have fit.

I apologize for no pictures, but hopefully those of you who are familiar with both razors will have a mental picture of what I am talking about. Work and weather has been crazy, and I am lucky to get this posted on the same day as the shave.

Very nice, thoughtful, informative review. My only Feather AC SE razors are the two Mongeese, stainless and aluminum, both current versions. I keep studying the array of other Feather AC SE razors, even as I continue to be a huge fan of my ATT H2. I suspect I'll end up buying the SE2, new version, as my next adventure in this territory, in part because of your review. Thank you!

 

[McVeyMac]

Very nice, thoughtful, informative review. My only Feather AC SE razors are the two Mongeese, stainless and aluminum, both current versions. I keep studying the array of other Feather AC SE razors, even as I continue to be a huge fan of my ATT H2. I suspect I'll end up buying the SE2, new version, as my next adventure in this territory, in part because of your review. Thank you!

Thanks Scott. I am completely satisfied with the SE2. When I first got into the ATT razors, I opted for the open comb versions. I now have the H2, R2, M2, S2 and SE2 base plates. I shave with a straight razor about 98% of the time. In my den the H2 remains locked and loaded for days I am in a hurry, and the S2 has the same function in my travel kit. Stan has done a great job with the stainless steel line.

 

[EternalBachelor]

Thanks for all the review information here gents. I have the full line of ATT DE plates in the open comb versions, H2, R2 and M2 as well as the slant.. I started using a straight razor soon after receiving these, so now I rarely shave with the DE unless I am rushed. Then the H2 gets the call on the Colossus handle. I also have the Astra and Kronos handles. Needless to say I am a fan of the product line.


I also have Feather DX handles in both folding and Kami style, as well as KAI Captain Standard folding handle version shavettes and a supply of KAI Captain Mild and Feather Pro Super blades on hand. I was looking for an AC style SE option to try out, and this thread helped me make up my mind. The SE2 is in the mail.

How is the H2, particularly when shaving against the grain? Because I have an Ikon Tech, and while it shaves close, I don't find the razor comfortable (every blade tugs in it too). On the other hand, I love my Fatip, but would like something more efficient.

 

[darkstefano]

I was and i am a ATT fan, i have the full OC DE ATT razor and the SE1.... but SE2 v2 reviewed after a short time by Stain did not expect it, with the prices that I expect more planning and attention .... Now I do not have the SE2 but if I were to buy it here in Europe through the Internet will not be able to know some version will be sent to me ... sorry for that low blow.

 

[McVeyMac]

How is the H2, particularly when shaving against the grain? Because I have an Ikon Tech, and while it shaves close, I don't find the razor comfortable (every blade tugs in it too). On the other hand, I love my Fatip, but would like something more efficient.

The H2 is the most aggresive DE baseplate in in the ATT DE lineup. I began with the R2 with fine results, but after moving into straights, I found it lacking. I prefer the H2 to any of the base plates now. ATG can be a challenge if I'm not careful and get too aggressive, especially in the mustache area. I get no tugging, and my go to blade is the Astra SP, but I often throw in a Feather with similar results.

 

[McVeyMac]

I was and i am a ATT fan, i have the full OC DE ATT razor and the SE1.... but SE2 v2 reviewed after a short time by Stain did not expect it, with the prices that I expect more planning and attention .... Now I do not have the SE2 but if I were to buy it here in Europe through the Internet will not be able to know some version will be sent to me ... sorry for that low blow.

I am certain that Stan will send you a v2 SE2 if you purchase from ATT. If purchasing on the secondary market, it might get to be a crap shoot. The version I have is the original, and I am now making arrangements to get the SE2 v2.

 

[McVeyMac]

Stan did not allow me to exchange the v1 SE2 for the v2 SE2 as the time lapse from purchase was over 30 days. I have only shaved with my SE2 2.5 times. Look for it on the exchange if you are interested, I have more interest in using the RX. I thought that I would like the SE2 v2 variant, but I will live with the exceptional RX. I shave with a straight 98% of the time any way.

 

[Marcos1]

Can anyone comment on new vs old versions of the SE2? I received an SE2 (old version) for Christmas as it was ordered by my mom sometime last month I think. I haven't used it yet. I'd hate to have to go buy another new SE2 plate if this one is too mild I would have just asked for a gift certificate if I knew the design was going to be changed.

 

[McVeyMac]

Can anyone comment on new vs old versions of the SE2? I received an SE2 (old version) for Christmas as it was ordered by my mom sometime last month I think. I haven't used it yet. I'd hate to have to go buy another new SE2 plate if this one is too mild I would have just asked for a gift certificate if I knew the design was going to be changed.

I definitely would have evaluated this razor sooner had I known the design was changing. I am not aware of comparisons between the v1 and v2 baseplates. All I can say is that the v1 SE2 with a Pro Super blade feels very similar to the Asylum RX with a Pro blade with respect to aggresiveness. If you like aggresive, I would explain the situation to Stan and see if he will exchange it.

 

[shave/brush]

Oops, wrong thread.

 

[Marcos1]

I should be able to test out the SE2 old version tomorrow. Hopefully all works out. I've noticed that once a blade is loaded on the cap, and the cap attached to the plate that the cap has a little bit of forward/backward movement that could possible effect blade exposure. Has anyone noticed this? Should the cap be pushed rearward on the baseplate before screwing the handle in?

 

[McVeyMac]

I should be able to test out the SE2 old version tomorrow. Hopefully all works out. I've noticed that once a blade is loaded on the cap, and the cap attached to the plate that the cap has a little bit of forward/backward movement that could possible effect blade exposure. Has anyone noticed this? Should the cap be pushed rearward on the baseplate before screwing the handle in?

Yes, I too have noticed this play with the blade loaded in the cap slots. I have only less than a handful of shaves on my SE2, so I have not done any experimentation with it forward or back.

 

[Marcos1]

Yes, I too have noticed this play with the blade loaded in the cap slots. I have only less than a handful of shaves on my SE2, so I have not done any experimentation with it forward or back.

i can only assume that since the recesses in the base plate are open ended at the front that the top cap and its cooresponding nubs should be placed into the base plate and be pushed rearward as to fully seat them in the recesses. That'll be my starting point.

 

[McVeyMac]

i can only assume that since the recesses in the base plate are open ended at the front that the top cap and its cooresponding nubs should be placed into the base plate and be pushed rearward as to fully seat them in the recesses. That'll be my starting point.

That approach sounds logical.

 

[Marcos1]

I finally gave the SE2 a whirl today and I was very impressed. This is the old version of the SE2 not the new version. The head was paired with a Kronos handle and a Feather Pro blade and I found the balance to be good. The head is more low profile and nimble than my stainless b3 polished Mongoose which I really like. I found the shave to be very efficient. Slightly more efficient than the Mongoose which is a good thing as that's what I was looking for in my lineup. I found the SE2 to shave a little closer than the Mongoose and to me it is also more aesthetically pleasing as well. To be impartial and critical I found the blade holding nubs to be too short and I dislike the fact that they don't go entirely through the baseplate like the Mongoose. This makes head alignment slightly more difficult during assembly and it also makes rinsing a little more difficult because if you unscrew the head too far the head will break free from the base plate which is less than ideal especially with wet soapy hands. I believe I am going to keep this version and not pursue the newer more efficient SE2 with the longer comb. I don't think for me that will have any benefit and I have no need for a larger blade gap apparently. I also like the fact it is no longer being made and to me that give it some rarity.

I have to give thanks to my mom for another great Christmas present. Whether it cigars, knives, razors etc she always pays attention to my likes and always seems to hit the nail on the head. Thanks mom.

 

[McVeyMac]

Thanks for your thoughts on the v1 SE2. I too was wondering if the scarcity factor of the v1 SE2 might result in a bump in the resale value further down the road. Clearly my experience with the v1 SE2 using the Pro Super blade exhibited enough aggression to get a very close shave, and on par with the RX with a Pro blade loaded. I have yet to try the Pro in the SE2, but that will be the next logical experiment once I get it back from loan to a friend.

 

[Marcos1]

Had my second shave today using the v1 SE2. I have to say this razor is really hitting all the right spots with me performance wise. It knocked down 4.5 days worth of growth on the first pass like it was nothing. Personally I don't understand how people told Stan how it needed more separation and efficiency from the SE1 than this. But either way I love this razor and of course the Feather Pro blade is just awesome.

 

[McVeyMac]

I think people said that there was too much similarity to the SE1 in aggresiveness, so there was the implied question as to why they should own both that were so similar. I think that Stan wanted to put some distance in the way that they shaved relative to each other. I was completely satisfied with my SE2, but I found it to shave similarly to my RX when the SE2 is loaded with a Pro Super blade (which I deem to be pretty exceptional by the way). I too would like some distance between them, and I would definitely consider trying the v2 SE2 if I sell my v1.