I stopped using expensive cartridge blades about a year ago and the Merkur 180 was my first DE razor. I knew it wasn't the most aggressive thing when I got it, but I was nervous about cutting up my face. I do have to go over my face three times when I shave and it does a decent job. I used a butterfly type of razor they sell at Sally Beauty supply which seems to be much more aggressive than the 180. If I skip a day, I only have to go over my face once with it. Thing is, I realize that it's a piece of junk. I wouldn't mind moving up to something that is a little more aggressive than the 180 but I don't know where to start. Since these things are expensive, I'd like to see if I can get some advice instead of trial and error. I would like to stay away from the butterfly types if possible. Here is the Sally Beauty Supply one I used. I think it was $10:
http://www.sallybeauty.com/safety-razor/SBS-676100,default,pd.html
http://www.sallybeauty.com/safety-razor/SBS-676100,default,pd.html