Just purchased a Merkur HD 34C

[KarthVader]

Any words of advice?

I'm super excited! Can't wait to try the razor out.

Furthermore, my Dad laughed at me when I told him my Indian razor, although reliable, was below par for a proper shave. I guess he is hoping this isn't a fad that I was falling into. I assured him that the razor would probably last forever and I was getting a deal with the blades themselves (compared to the MBM that Gillette and Shick produce).

Thanks again to B&B for all the advice and reviews that helped me make an informed decision.

 

[ateace]

You've have done a good and wise thing.

Enjoy the razor and report back with your experience and opinions.

 

[strat1117]

The Merkur HD is a fantastic razor (although mine is a 38C, not a 34C).

Nevertheless, I am certain you will enjoy it.

 

[Synack]

Yep, the 34C is an awesome razor. I'm sure you'll like it.

 

[bobbyd]

Do you all have blade recommendations for this razor. I was using the red personna in my gillette slim adjustable, and really liked them. But I find in the Merkur they aren't as great.

 

[tincan]

Do you all have blade recommendations for this razor. I was using the red personna in my gillette slim adjustable, and really liked them. But I find in the Merkur they aren't as great.

Derby all the way.

 

[Corey]

My 34C and 38C shave remarkably well with Astra Superiors.

 

[BullGoose]

The Gillette SharpEdge (Yellow) and the Astra Superior Platinum both seem to work well in the HD. I had a little trouble with Feathers and Super Iridiums but, YMMV. I think you will really like the HD...it is a great razor that will last a lifetime.

 

[Synack]

+1 For Derby or Gillette Yellows

 

[David in Boston]

Picked up the HD a few weeks ago. Wish I did it sooner.

Great razor!

By the way, if you like the HD you may want to consider the 1904 Classic.

Real pretty razor Bubba.

 

[cop]

A very fine and clever choice, Sir!
Good luck,
cop

 

[jakespoppy]

The 34C is one of my favorite razors, with either a Feather or a Red Personna. Nice selection! You won't be disappointed!

 

[jhclare]

See my recent thread - I love this razor after having tried others.

Experiment with blades - some love Derbys but I found them blunt and they pull and tug, YMMV. I much prefer Feathers, Red IPs or Crystals!

 

[KarthVader]

So, after waiting about a week and a half, my razor and blade sampler set STILL haven't arrived. I e-mailed John over at West Coast Shaving and he has resent the package; he thinks it was lost in the mail. My purchases getting lost in the mail seems to be a common occurrence. I've lost an iPod, a keyboard and mouse and a computer screen through the mail while trying to get them repaired or delivered I hope I get it soon!

 

[scottish steve]

That's a real shame. An HD is a rite de passage for all DE-users

 

[ateace]

Oohh, that stings worse than Aqua Velva on razor burn.

Hang in there, Karth.

 

[jakespoppy]

Just so your anticipation doesn't wane, I shaved with my HD and an Astra blade this morning, and needed very little touch-up for a BBS after the usual 4 passes. Good luck in getting yours soon, Karth!

 

[BEAR DEN]

Congrats on the razor!! I have one and enjoy it very much! No fad IMO once you use a DE it is very difficult to go back to the mutiblade madness. You may be able to convince your Dad to try DE shaving...I convinced my Son... now when he runs out of blades he raids my stash!!

 

[KarthVader]

Update 2:

My razor finally arrived!!! But, unfortunately, I'm out of town. Gotta wait a WHOLE WEEK before I can finally try it. I feel like it's the holy grail or some elusive prize that I can't quite attain. Darn't.

 

[Andrew16v]

Awesome! That's how I feel about mine! I actually went with the 38c but it's very similar and I love it. I have a sampler pack of blades and so far I like the red personas and believe it or not - wilkinson sword classics. The derbys pulled to much on my face, as did the merkur blades.

Good luck, let us know how it goes when you get home
Andrew