Call me crazor!

[Dib]

So I have had two shaves using my merkur long classic HD with the sample blade it came with. The first shave I used Gillette gel (all I had) and what an experience it was compared to my old cartridges. Face felt great. My badger brush and proraso had not arrived yet.

The next day I went to AOS and picked up some sandlewood SC. My brush arrived the same day! Still no razors yet I ordered the Derbys based on their reviews.

So I had my second shave yesterday with the sandlewood SC, brush, and the same merkur sample blade. This blade was terrible the second time around. Razor burn and pulling, no sharpness whatsoever.

I don't want to order a sample pack. So I have 50 ($9.99) Derbys on the way. I just ordered 20 Feathers ($12.99) and 100 Gillette 7 o'clock sharpedges, the yellow pack ($34.00). I have a thick beard so went for sharpness and reviews. The 100 pack was the best deal I could find for the Gillettes so I said what the hell.

These three blades will be in my rotation and only one will be crowned my blade.

I would love to hear your thoughts about my three choices and your experiences.

PS
The razor burn from last night is almost gone and my face feels ok but that blade is horrible. The reviews dont lie.

 

[theinternot]

Feathers. That is all.

 

[dpmtherrien]

Well, at least you're off and running. I do think that a sample pack, any sample pack, is the way to go. I can assure you that your experience from one type of blade won't match the other guys. Everyone is different, and the absolute best reviewed blade could turn out to be your own worst blade. The sample pack is the easiest way to find your own best. Good luck with whatever you do.

 

[boomer56]

Well, at least you're off and running. I do think that a sample pack, any sample pack, is the way to go. I can assure you that your experience from one type of blade won't match the other guys. Everyone is different, and the absolute best reviewed blade could turn out to be your own worst blade. The sample pack is the easiest way to find your own best. Good luck with whatever you do.

Yeah, I'd echo this.

My favorite blade remains the relatively poorly reviewed Merkur. I too have a pretty thick beard, I used to shave twice a day, and that is happily no longer necessary. On weekends when I have all the time in the world I might switch to something more aggressive, but (for me) (so far) the Merkur remains the most forgivable and reliably smooth blade.

You really need to shop around and find out what works for you. Some of the more highly recommended blade ideas have caused me great irritation. Hope you find what works for you!

Best,

Boomer