Item Description
Price: At $30, this razor is a bargain. When considering all of the safety razors on the market, this would be a middle priced item. When considering the quality of the razor, this is a bargain price.
Grip: The pommel (to borrow a term from Rich) of this razor is textured which allows a very secure grip while shaving. The handle is gnarled which allows a secure grip while rinsing, blade changing, etc.
Ease of Blade Replacement: Blade replacement is a cinch with the HD. While it isn't as simple as a "Butterfly" razor, it is a major step up from the 1904 Classic. The HD is also a 3 piece razor, but composed differently so you do not have to hold the head of the razor while tightening.
Aggressiveness: Aggressiveness is an interesting issue with razors. Certainly there is a point where a razor can become so tame that it makes getting a close shave difficult, however, there is also a point where a razor can become so aggressive that you have to alter technique to avoid being butchered. I find the HD to be in that "happy medium" place where shaves are close and skin stays healthy.
Balance: I truly love the feel of this instrument. The balance is superb and it has a nice heft.
User Friendly: As stated before, the aggressiveness of this razor is just right for a beginner, intermediate, or advanced shaver to achieve excellent results. Also, the angle on the comb of this razor can help to provide and excellent guide for the appropriate razor angle needed. The weight of the razor allows the user to apply no pressure and still have adequate pressure to cut hair.
Overall Quality: From the moment you remove this razor from the box, you will know that you have a quality item in your hands. Of all the razors I have used, the HD has been the only one to stand the test of time. I will still revisit old razors from time to time and will undoubtedly continue to buy new ones, but it would take a true marvel of engineering to make a razor that could bump the HD off the top of the shaving heap.
