It is a bit like an open comb design. I knocked down a good 5 or so days of growth with it the other day since I was in a hurry to get out the door and I can shave way faster with that than I can a straight, and it handled that without any issue. As was said, shorter passes, rinse often.. I did my usual and fully lathered up a second time to really finish it off, but I was socially acceptable shaved after the first one.
I used the Guard for years that way, the way Indians often do for whom this razor was designed, shaving only a few times a week. It's actually better than any other cartridge for that, or even a DE. Very easy to clean off, doesn't clog, etc. I'd shave on Sundays for church and have a few days growth, and it was ideal.