Merkur HD 34C vs 37C vs 39C

[number_nine]

Hi all,

I'm a newbie who has been reading these message boards for about a fortnight now.

I'm about to take the plunge into the safety razor world. After carefully reading these forums and reviews, I've narrowed my selection down to 4 razors:

Merkur 34C HD

Merkur 37C

Merkur 39C Slant Sledgehammer

Merkur 12C

Because I'm a newbie, I KNOW most of you are going to say go with the 34 to start with (to learn the technique etc.) And I may very well do this! However, I'm not one who wants to continually swap razors. If I purchase the HD, I know within a few weeks I'll probably go out and buy the 37C or 39C. So I'm thinking I might as well buy one of those to start with and learn with one of those.

What are peoples thoughts?

Cheers!!!

 

[dpm802]

The 39C is the Sledgehammer Slant, not the 37C.

Start with the 34C, HD Straight Bar. It is a great razor for newbies and experienced shavers alike, and it may be all the razor you'll ever need.

You want to get really good with your technique and prep-steps before you pick up a Slant. Find your favorite soaps and creams and figure out your prep-steps ... first and foremost. It took me about 6 months of wet-shaving before I felt I was skilled enough to try Slanting.

When you're ready to upgrade to a Slant, go with the 39C ... the longer handle and double weight will make a big difference, although be prepared for a few days worth of "learning curve," as you adjust your technique to the new dynamics of Slant-shaving.

 

[number_nine]

Sorry, I left the 12C out as well.

 

[number_nine]

Thanks dpm802 - I was expecting a reply like this haha.

I've read mixed reviews with some people saying you can start fine on a slant, as long as you take your time.

 

[curtis909]

I started with an HD barber pole and went to a slant after a month with no problems. I don't think to me it is that big a jump at all. But that is only my opinion. Everyone is different
By the way welcome and enjoy the site...

 

[number_nine]

I keep changing my mind between the 34 and the 37/39. What to do haha!!??

Thanks for the welcome, this site really is a wealth of information for newbies to wet shaving/safety razors etc.

 

[40_Caliber]

If you want to start with a Slant...go for it. In the end it's your face, your razor, and your money.

Why not order a 39C and a 23C. The 23C is an inexpensive very mild easy to use razor. Use this one to learn, get your face used to a DE and perfect your technique.

When you feel you are ready, pull out the Sledgehammer.

.40

 

[Sisonpyh]

I am having the exact same dilemma! I decided to go with the slant, from the reviews and posts I read the people that went right to a slant did not have to much of a problem. Either one is going to be different than a typical razor, so both will have a learning curve, might as well save the learning curve from a DE to a slant if that is what you start with. But its up to you! That is my opinion.

Hear is the thread I started where people discussed their opinion:

http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=90665

 

[rainman]

Not sure I'd start with a slant. Not that its too aggressive. Its another variable. While your freaking out that the blade is curved around you could loose focus and cut yourself. Adjustable is bad since you think your an expert on the second shave and dial all the way up.

 

[pizzaguy]

First HD
then slant

 

[number_nine]

Well, as I expected, it seems more people recommend going down the HD path before picking up a Slant.

Just out of curiosity, does anyone know how much I can pick up a HD in Australia? And a 39C for that matter. I don't really have the funds to experience with a lot of difference razors etc. (hence the reason why I wanted to go straight to slant). I may pick up the HD and 39C if the price is in my range.

 

[Tommy C]

Get a Gillette SS for cheap to start with and when you feel ready grab the Slant.

 

[scottish steve]

It took me about 2 years and about 12 razors for me to realise the HD was the best of that bunch.

 

[Audiolab]

Second that, started with an Hd and boutgh about a dozen other razors only to find that every time I go back to the HD it is just about the best razor there is.

Only other Razor that comes close is the Gillette HD Roket.

 

[number_nine]

I'd just like to thank everyone for their input. I didn't expect to get so many replies so fast...this really is a great community.

Well it looks like some people like the HD better than the slant...from other posts I read I assumed the Slant was a thousand times better.

I'm definitely purchasing a Merkur HD now. Probably pair with some Derby blades to start with. Might get some Feathers too.

Thanks!

 

[pcb01]

Have you thought about a Futur? The first one I bought and after several other purchases (including the Slant) it is still my favorite. As your technique improves, you can dial it up. Until then keep it on 1 or 2 and get very close, safe shaves.

 

[number_nine]

I thought about the Futur...but the assembly of the razor (ie. removing/adding blades) turned me off. I've read this is quite an annoying process with the Futur?

I also wanted to stay away from Adjustables because I wouldn't know which setting to put it on. I know you should start off on around 2...but when do you progress to 3...4...6 etc?

I also read from many posters that the Slant gave a better, more closer shave...but I guess everyone has opinions.

 

[DunEdinRanger]

In my case, a Futur at 6 = SLANT Barber Pole

 

[number_nine]

Would a Futur set on 1 or 2 equal a 34C HD??

If that's the case, maybe I should consider a Futur.

 

[scottish steve]

I'm definitely purchasing a Merkur HD now. Probably pair with some Derby blades to start with. Might get some Feathers too.

I don't know about Derbys; I've heard they're not very sharp. Feathers are a little unforgiving also. Maybe you could try Astras or some other blade? I like the white-label, German-made Wilkies, but this is definitely a Marmite brand. I think Swedes were the only blades everyone thought were good.