Fatip debut

[Erazorhead]

I normally use a Merkur HD, and am generally very happy with it. I get a close shave from a two pass routine. Executive Shaving had the Fatip in stock, and being intrigued by trying an OC design, I decided to give it a go. So this morning I gave it it's debut. The supporting cast:

• Simpsons Duke 2 in Best
• TOBS Lemon & Lime
• Feather blade
• Alum block
• Styptic pencil
• Groomed ASB (an entry-level Creightons product branded for ASDA/Wal-Mart)

The finish of the razor is entirely functional, it has the machined look of something that's designed for using not for looking at. In fact, the more I think about it, the more I think the chrome is perfect, but the brass below is somewhat nicked and dinged. It's almost as if Fatip have tried to achieve some aging effect on the razor. The area that would come in contact with the face is perfect.

The other thing you notice about the razor is that it is head heavy. This is noticeable if you hold the razor in the horizontal position, but much less so when using it at the proper angle, where head heavy should surely be an advantage?

So I did two passes, 1 x N-S and 1 x S-N as is my norm, plus touch ups. The experience was very different from the HD. I was constantly aware I needed to be taking care, and there is no doubt the shave was closer. Otherwise, I did nothing different, just went for it. The sound of bristles being cut was much greater than with the HD. I don't have a particularly heavy beard, but see no reason why I couldn't use this every day. Very pleased I bought this.

 

[talibeard]

I have mine for over 4 years now and while I normally shave with a milder razor I do enjoy the Fatip (I bought it as a Mühle R89 back then) from time to time. It is definitely a keeper that gives smooth, comfortable shaves with, indeed, a lot of audio-feedback!

 

[tinashubby]

Used mine only three times so far and this is definitely my daily razor! I don't want to waste a bunch of time with my DE87. To get good, close, irritation free shaves with the DE87 I need to use three shims, and its just not worth bothering with. The Fatip reviews had me worried that this thing was some kind of face eating monster, but I get zero irritation if I am paying attention to my shave.

 

[celestino]

Congratulations on the success with the FaTip.

 

[Viseguy]

Fatip head is superb, but it works much better with a heavier handle, IMO. I use the Weber Bulldog (photo) or Classic. (I generally don't get along with head-heavy razors.)

 

[Erazorhead]

So since buying the Fatip I've used it a few times to the point my shaves are now very smooth, except for just under my right nostril where I'm a little ham-fisted. I used my 34c again today, and found it ridiculously easy to use, and far more relaxing. More importantly, the 34c gave a pretty much equal quality of shave. Of course, this could be just technique. I actually think the Fatip has improved my technique as I feel I have to be very careful with it.

I am now in a position where I think I'll use the 34c for weekday shaves and the Fatip at the week-end when time pressures aren't an issue. I do feel as if I have conquered some kind of challenge, like swimming your first length as a kid, or getting you first kiss.

 

[StuMcB]

Fatip head is superb, but it works much better with a heavier handle, IMO. I use the Weber Bulldog (photo) or Classic. (I generally don't get along with head-heavy razors.)

Love that pic. Cant wait for my Bulldog handle to arrive. As for the fartip, too aggressive for this old fart.

 

[LeeH]

My gunmetal Fatip keeps bullying it's way to the top of my rotation. Had it for a few years now and the gunmetal is a little faded in spots, but I would never part with it.

 

[kingfisher]

FaTip is easy to use everywhere except the mustache area, where I find it quite difficult. There's so much blade exposure that it's easy to get nicked in that area.

I love it everywhere else, though. I couple it with the Tradere handle and it seems about right.

 

[Erazorhead]

OK, so after using the FaTip for some time now, I have come to the conclusion that it doesn't shave as close or as smooth as my Merkur 34cHD. Why would this be? It does look gorgeous though.

 

[alex2363]

OK, so after using the FaTip for some time now, I have come to the conclusion that it doesn't shave as close or as smooth as my Merkur 34cHD. Why would this be? It does look gorgeous though.

You have to realize that each razor has its own technique approach. You have to get good at using the FaTip and then try both. If you try using both without mastering the Fatip technique you will be cut/nicked or suffer a bad shave result.

 

[LeeH]

A change in blades could make a difference for you also.....did for me.

 

[BigBull]

The Fatip is one of my 2 favorite razors. Provides a smooth, comfortable, extremely close shave and it's one of the only razors I'll use on both my face & head. When you get used to it, I'm confident it will become one of yours as well. Like you said, it provides incredible audible feedback - let that "guide" you in finding the right angle. You'll know when you've hit the sweet spot.

Fatip head is superb, but it works much better with a heavier handle, IMO.

+1

I love it everywhere else, though. I couple it with the Tradere handle and it seems about right.

This is my setup as well. It's bliss...hence the nickname the "Poor Mans Joris"!