The Game Changer .68 would fit that bill nicely.
Astra SPs work for me. Occasionally tempted by Derby Extras, but I wait out the urge. Very cool that you learned the AS-D2’s riddle. Hoping ChunkyOwl gets his to reveal it’s awesomeness as well.
Tech I nabbed was definitely less than a tank of gas. The Feather AS-D2 is likely be smoother, but mine will be haunted.
+1 on the no shame in unloading a razor that just didn’t work for you. However, if you’re able, you might consider putting the AS-D2 back in its box and hiding it away in the closet for a year or so. You might just find in that time your technique and skill improves during that time and you’re able to get good results later. For me, I found my skills improved significantly when, after 2 years of DE shaving, I started branching out and trying other razors. However, I’ve never actually used a Feather, and after what you’ve been through, I don’t think I’d want to use it again!I am still struggling with it. I can’t get a smooth shave and despite the mild nature of the razor I end up with lots of irritation. This is because I keep having to do more strokes to cut any stubble. This seems to be the case regardless of blade. Shaving with a Kai and riding the cap has given me the best results, but those are far inferior to a moderate aggression razor. By comparison, I just bought a Merkur 34C from another member here and can get a BBS shave with no irritation or issues. Same story with a Gillette Aristocrat - wonderful shaves. I think this one may not be for me. I think I lack the focus, technique and/or skin/beard type to make this razor work.
Once I reach the 45 day membership tenure eligibility to post it on the B/S/T I think I will probably do so. Much more interested to trade it (plus cash if needed) for a Tatara, Timeless or Charcoal Goods moderate aggressive razor. Those seem more suitable for me based on my experience thus far. I do sincerely appreciate all the advice here though! It has been very valuable and I continue to learn.
Very wise suggestion.+1 on the no shame in unloading a razor that just didn’t work for you. However, if you’re able, you might consider putting the AS-D2 back in its box and hiding it away in the closet for a year or so. You might just find in that time your technique and skill improves during that time and you’re able to get good results later. For me, I found my skills improved significantly when, after 2 years of DE shaving, I started branching out and trying other razors. However, I’ve never actually used a Feather, and after what you’ve been through, I don’t think I’d want to use it again!
Yeah the shave with the Astra isn’t any better. I will look to trade this razor shortly.
This is an interesting suggestion. I'd consider trying it tomorrow morningOut of curiosity what happens if you use just a tad bit of pressure ? That is my sweet spot with this razor. It basically is just like a cartridge so with hard to shave areas (under my jawline / Adams apple etc) I can contour around my face w/out accidentally stabbing myself.
Perhaps to put another way shallow + adjust pressure until you get what you are looking for? Its super hard to cut yourself except with feathers and kais but its pretty obvious what the right pressure is after a few tries.
Regards
Avi
Nailed it! My best shaves with the AS-D2 were with a very sharp blade, really good technique (shallow angle) and some pressure. It’s such a mild shaver that a little pressure is nothing to fear.Out of curiosity what happens if you use just a tad bit of pressure ? That is my sweet spot with this razor. It basically is just like a cartridge so with hard to shave areas (under my jawline / Adams apple etc) I can contour around my face w/out accidentally stabbing myself.
Perhaps to put another way shallow + adjust pressure until you get what you are looking for? Its super hard to cut yourself except with feathers and kais but its pretty obvious what the right pressure is after a few tries.
Regards
Avi
Could @Avi and @Hannah's Dad please clarify a question on the pressure?
Is the added pressure all going towards the cap, the comb, both, or somewhere else?
Awesome! Love it when epiphany strikes! Congrats.I shaved again this morning and applied some moderate pressure while riding the cap using a new Kai blade. The pressure made a MASSIVE difference! I got a very smooth shave with very little irritation. This seems counterintuitive to me as somehow I have less irritation despite pressing hard...I guess it helps tighten my skin against the bar somehow? Anyways thanks again this has made a big difference. I will continue to work at it with this one because results this morning were outstanding!
I shaved again this morning and applied some moderate pressure while riding the cap using a new Kai blade. The pressure made a MASSIVE difference! I got a very smooth shave with very little irritation. This seems counterintuitive to me as somehow I have less irritation despite pressing hard...I guess it helps tighten my skin against the bar somehow? Anyways thanks again this has made a big difference. I will continue to work at it with this one because results this morning were outstanding!