EJ89+IKONBulldog85: That big a difference?

[KRpdx]

I've been using my EJ89 with lined handle for about a year. I've seen some rave reviews about turbo-charging with an IKON 85mm Bulldog II handle. Would appreciate some pro and con input on the combination before I lay out almost twice as much for the handle as I paid for the whole razor.

(While we're at it, the IKON Bulldog I is 80mm. Thoughts on how big a performance factor that extra 5mm is, especially with the EJ89?)

Thanks for your thoughts,

Keith

 

[wagstaff]

I've used the DE89 with the iKon handle and with a Weber Bulldog handle, which is shorter (i.e., probably the same as the "Bulldog I"). I don't think there's much of a difference between them except how the grip feels given the size of your hands. Big guys like longer handles, near as I can tell.

To me the difference between either of the stainless handles and the original EJ handles is pretty important. (I have the "barley" version, not the lined, so weigh that how you will). The iKon and Weber handles are far more "grippy" -- some people don't like how sharp the knurling is on these handles. It's in the realm of the knurling on a powerlifting bar, or serious dumbbells, is the nearest comparison I can make.

The weight of the handles for me makes the razors far more efficient. To some extent I'm just used to them, so my "touch" feels more natural with the heavier handles maybe. But I think it's also a matter of the weight of the razor making it easier to keep a constant ("no") pressure added, too.

I think the Jagger handles are pretty, though.

 

[bendawson]

The EJ and Muhle handles are prettier but I've been using a Weber Bulldog handle with my DE89 for about 2 weeks and love it. The amount of grip is awesome. To me, it feels like I have more control over the razor which has inspired more confidence which, in turn, has resulted in better shaves. I have large hands, I wear a 2xl in Mechanics gloves, and the Weber handle doesn't feel too small to me. I would like to get the Bulldog II at some point but my shaving budget is tapped for the foreseeable future.

 

[Harry Snider]

I used a BD2 on an ej89 and loved that big handle! Mind you
, I took it off a r41 mid stroke! Now I have the SLAB/ italianbarber handle and I put that on everthing! That handle/razor is a bargoon!

 

[KRpdx]

What do you think about the shorter SLAB handle on the EJ89 head compared to the BD2? Much difference in performance/feel?

 

[KRpdx]

Thanks again . . . over and out . . .

 

[scottyboy]

Hey Keith,

Check out this little custom number i had made for my EJ. It's 80mm, stainless steel. I love it.....
Better than an Ikon and much cheaper. Plus you can specify the length to suit.
Message me if you want specs....

 

[ArNav]

I think the Bulldog handle adds a lot to EJ, it's an excellent handle, both I and II. I prefer II because of the greater length.
If you don't like the aggressive knurling you can buy Griest GS-1 handle which is also great, or Weber Classic. You can also try the guy who made scottyboy's handle. These handles all make the EJ a much better razor. I have all of those, and also ordered a Kaiser Short from UFO, which is more expensive but beautiful.