Muhle R89 [2011]

It's as reliable as it gets.

To me, the two major German razor manufacturers represent two different philosophies. Merkur Solingen represents the 'workhorse', reliability and sheer power, while Mühle is kind of design friendly, offering more of a luxurious feeling. The selling point regarding reliability is the Edwin Jagger & Mühle designed 89 head, which is very mild, a great entry level razor head that is friendly to wet shaving newbies, but also a reliable workhorse. It will deliver 'good enough' (tm) shaves, with virtually zero irritation, but not the closest ones (but do ask yourselves if you need BBS every morning, to me it's overrated. You just need to look clean shaven for your job + your skin will thank you for it).

The chrome plating is superb, it feels good in your hand.

Another plus is, the threadposts are made out of brass, which reduces likelyhood of zamak rot, as the chrome plating on the threads usually is the first to go, exposing the undelying Zamak (the problem with Edwin Jaggers, for example, and why their heads tend to snap off on a couple inch drop) and then rotting.

Basically, carefully designed, not the best material, but the main problem areas are fixed with superior materials.

The R89 is, imo, a wonderful product; as most things from Muhle are. I have a real problem with sensitive skin and I can almost always get a comfortable, close, shave with it. It, for me, strikes the balance between aggression and gentleness, and I always find myself going back to it after trying more expensive razors.

It can't be rated for adjustment because it has none, which I prefer. The quality of the fit, and finish, and beauty make it well worth its price.

I found this razor far too mild, it is however the most beautiful piece I have and despite not having it in my rotation any more I cannot let it go because it is such a good looking razor. I do have a very coarse beard so I dont think many people will have too many issues with it, another bad point is the very shallow embossing on the handle which makes it quiet slippery with soapy hands.

First non-adjustable safety razor.I love it. perfect aggression (using derby stainless steel) great audio...love to hear the sound of each individual hair being cut. really like this razor.

The R89 is hands down my favorite DE razor. The finish is flawless (whereas Merkur razors are hit or miss), the weight is even, the design is stunning. It is not too aggressive, and allows you to pass even 3 times with proper re-lathering without irritation. The head has great long slits that allow lather to pass through and not clog the blade up at all. The blade is a tad tricky to get in, but only because this is a traditional three-piece design, so that is expected. With a couple shaves, it allows you to master the art. I would honestly state that Muhle razors are far superior to Merkurs because of their build and finish, not to mention the perfect balance of weight. My favorite razor, beating out the adjustable Merkur Futur and Merkur 28

I agree with thegeneral that it's a better shave than Merkur 23C, but not by a long shot. It's slightly more agressive and, like the Merkur 23C, has excellent grip. I think it comes down to the more modern head design and better balance.

Better shave than a Merkur 23c or 180. Easier to use for some reason. More blade gap than my 23c.

I'm surprised that it took this long for an initial review on this razor.The razor is beautiful. Clean & elegant. EJ D89 is the same razor at half the cost.Both shave easily and smoothly. The only reason I gave it a "9" is for the cost. Pricey.

I paid € 32,00 or $ 41,50 converted by current rates. Excellent beginners razor with a unmatched price/quality ratio (along with the EJ line). Good balance, good plating, easy on the eye. Smooth too! If the R41 is like Rambo, mowing down small army's of hair with brute force, then the R89 is like a commando, in & out, without being seen. Or like a ninja when paired with a Feather. Everything is good about this razor! Only thing is, do you like your razors mild or aggressive? Rated "Aggressiveness" a 6, as in a 10 is super aggressive (R41?) and a 0 would not shave hairs of. I did not fill in "Adjustability" since it is simply not. Everything is good about this razor!!