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Gentle On my Face Razor

Which is the best. I know everyone has their own opinion. I read on this forum, 40's Gillette, 50's Gillette, 60's Gillette, Slim adjustable, Fat Boy and the list goes on.
The adjustable sounds "reasonable" since you can adjust the "aggressiveness". Are Fat Boys's adjustable?
Is there a "current" model that is adjustable and "gentle".

This is very confusing. I don't wish to have a drawer full of razors if I can help it and my pocketbook can't handle it.
 
Which is the best. I know everyone has their own opinion. I read on this forum, 40's Gillette, 50's Gillette, 60's Gillette, Slim adjustable, Fat Boy and the list goes on.
The adjustable sounds "reasonable" since you can adjust the "aggressiveness". Are Fat Boys's adjustable?
Is there a "current" model that is adjustable and "gentle".

This is very confusing. I don't wish to have a drawer full of razors if I can help it and my pocketbook can't handle it.

I can't comment too much on adjustables, but if you're looking for a razor that is good and forgiving, I would recommend a 40's or 50's Gillette Superspeed.
 
Yes the Fat Boy is the most popular adjustable but a little heavier then either the Slim or the Super. I find the Super adjustable in either the normal or long black handle to be the smoothest shave and given the same adjustment number less aggressive. However every one is an excellent shaver and I would recommend one to anyone starting out in wet shaving.

Len
 
G

gone down south

Every razor you listed is relatively mild.

The bad news is unfortunately, every one of them shaves differently so it's really hit or miss which one you'll like and which ones won't work for you.

The goods news is that they can all be had relatively cheap on the B/S/T, and any ones you don't like can be quickly resold for what you paid for it.
 
The Tech is a simple three piece razor, Gillette's longest running production, from 1938 (or '39?) to 1973. They came in nickel or gold plate, in ball end or Fat Handle. Here is the Wiki link.

I'll try to post some pics in a bit (need to resize and upload some), but do a search on the site here. You'll find them always associated with being a mild shaver.

ETA, all three of mine have been bought inexpensively (one in an antique shop for $2.97, one on eBay for $3.75 plus $3.75 shipping, and one in a lot of 5 with a couple much more rare for $30).
 
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I'd recommend a Tech. Used mine this morning when I had a crazy 6-pass idea for my neck. No irritation or cuts at all.
 
Thirding or fourthing the Tech rec. A shaver grade razor is so cheap you have no excuse not to at least give it a try.
 
Well, I have all the above mentioned razors. The superspeeds are probably the best. Two days ago I loaned out my FatBoy if that tells you anything. I just got a Tech Heavy in a garage sale Saturday, and am using that now. My advice would be to get an adjustable and put it on 1.

The other razors really depend on your prep and techique. I had a hard time learning not to press so hard going from the M3 to DE.
 
here are some gentle razors in both current and vintage categories:

CURRENT:
1) the goodfella a 3 piece open-comb razor that is incredibly mild. thin head for good maneuverability and a lifetime warranty


VINTAGE:
1) gillette tech - incredibly thin head and very mild shaver. can be made more aggressive through blade pairing. unbelievably good and still inexpensive

2) blue-tip superspeed - originally built for those who wanted a milder shave while still retaining all the virtues of a superspeed.
 
The Ming Shi is the gentlest razor in my arsenal, which also includes a Slim adjustable and a 40s Super Speed. Back in the spring I bought a new Ming Shi for about $15, shipping included, from amazon.com. It came with a cool case and a five-pack of Derby blades (which work quite well in this razor).

Mike
 
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I have not tried many DE razors, but I started off with a Gillette Tech. It really is a non aggressive razor. It is a great starter razor. I did sell mine because I wanted a more aggressive and am not a collector of razors. I intend only to keep what I will use frequently, I did not see myself doing so with the Tech as the Merkur 23C also is not very aggressive, but gives me a closer shave than I got with the Tech without any cuts or skin abrasions.
 
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I love my Tech. just used this bad boy tonight
 
techs can be had for a song - theyre great razors and nice and gentle on your face

Yup. A tech is the way to go. Mega mega gentle.
In fact, I think people should stop recommending Merkur HD's to newbies and should start recommending techs
 
For a begginer, by all means get a Gillete Tech. Get a sampler pack of blades and you will find a perfect combination of razor and blade.

For your info, I have a Merkur HD, FatBoy, Red Tip SuperSpeed and a Tech.

I have learned a lot with Tech. There is less pain, irritation, weepers and cuts. You can concentrate in prepping, lather and post shaving.

And it won't break the bank. (THAT is this little gem dealbreaker)
 

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