I have been evaluating a few Gillette Russian blades. Namely, the Silver Blue, Rubie, Platinum Dark Blue and Light Blue. I have used each blade four times. Every shave has been on 24 hours growth with a new blade. Blade longevity is not a concern since I am one and done with all blades. I used Santa Maria Novella shave cream (a gift from the gods) and my 1948-50 Gillette Aristocrat. Bottom line is that I cannot tell much difference between them. They all give smooth close shaves with no issues. My order of preference is the Platinum Light Blue, Platinum Dark Blue, Silver Blue, and Rubie.
There have been some claims that the Light Blue is the same as the old Swedes and I think there is evidence to support it. Of the blades I just mentioned, the Light Blue is the only one to have directional arrows. The old Swedes that came in the dispenser also had arrows to indicate that the blade could be loaded from either side. However, the new Light Blues are etched and not printed like the Swedes which makes them similar but not identical. Who knows for sure? Anyway I will keep a stock of Light Blues as long as I can get them. If not any of the other blades will suit me just as well.
There have been some claims that the Light Blue is the same as the old Swedes and I think there is evidence to support it. Of the blades I just mentioned, the Light Blue is the only one to have directional arrows. The old Swedes that came in the dispenser also had arrows to indicate that the blade could be loaded from either side. However, the new Light Blues are etched and not printed like the Swedes which makes them similar but not identical. Who knows for sure? Anyway I will keep a stock of Light Blues as long as I can get them. If not any of the other blades will suit me just as well.