I know this topic reveals many differences of opinion but I'm hoping to avoid having to try too many different blades before deciding on one to stick with. My experience thus far has been with Merkur and Derby blades. I got a smoother, less irritated shave with the Derby extras. Maybe the Merkur is just not for my face type or am I doing something wrong? Not sure. I don't want to buy the swedes, israelies, feather, wilinson, etc.... if I don't have to. Any advice from my experience so far on what might possible be my shaving steel holy grail?