My New Gem of a Razor

[SteveWY]

I have been looking for a Gem Heavy Flat-Head ("G-Bar") for awhile. Many think it is one of the better Gems to use and is easier to live with than the Micromatic. I have not quite got to a comfort level with the OCMM. I was fortunate to score this one recently and it arrived today.

So, any advice or shared experience on venturing forth with this one? I'm mainly a DE guy and have only visited SE shaving with the OCMM and a Schick-Eversharp. Just wondering if there are any particulars I should consider. Thanks.

 

[JaxJim]

Nice score, Steve. I think you'll find this one easier to tame than the OCMM. Just pay attention to the blade angle, and you'll get a great shave. Enjoy!

 

[santamariasteve]

If someone told me the Gem "Heavy Flat Top" aka the "G Bar" was their favorite SE razor I would not argue with them. It is an excellent razor that is attractive and it gives a good shave.

It was made between 1949 and the late 1950's. The attractive oval handle is comfortable, and it offers good traction for one's hand. The slanted "finger rest" (for the 4th finger) at the end of the handle is a nice touch. I rate its aggressiveness as medium. The head of this razor is identical (I believe) to the head of its older brother, the Gem Feather Weight, but it is a better shaver than the Feather Weight (which was made 1953-1958). I believe the reason is because of the increased weight and substance of the handle.

Good choice. It's a keeper! Just remember to use SE blades that are sold in large drug stores for shaving, and not to use the "box cutter" SE blades from the hardware store. Big difference!

 

[kcb5150]

It is very mild, but in a good way. It's one of those razors I could use every day and be ok with it.

 

[chilliman64]

I find this to be a bit rough on my face but for a headshave they are number 1 - they are one of the sexier razors around IMHO

 

[SteveWY]

Thank you Gents! So, I couldn't wait to try the "G-Bar". I found myself handling the razor last night, admiring the design and feel. There is almost something "50's automobile" in its appearance to me! The heavy handle with the flared tip makes it ergonomic. I totally can see the "sexy" designation.

Today's shave: Soaked my B&B Essential boar, loaded up a GEM blade (from Walgreen's), built a great lather with MWF and went to it. It had been awhile since using my OCMM so I had some feedback and blade feel to get familiar with. There is some difference between the heavier SE blades and DE blades. Something almost doesn't feel as sharp but I don't know if that is it or not. The balance of the razor was nice. I used a three-finger hold with thumb and index finger about mid handle and pinky on the tip. The first pass seemed OK but not as smooth as I am accustomed to with DE shaves. Very likely this is all technique. The blade angle is totally different so I was all over the place. The second and third passes were a little better and I ended with an acceptable shave. I will have to keep working on it. As I said, I'm new to the SE community. I would be interested to know if and how this razor became the standard or bumped DE razors for anyone. I don't think I will get to that point but I will likely use the GEM in rotation and mainly just like having it on display because it is so darn cool looking!

 

[santamariasteve]

I would shave with it for a week or two before arriving at any conclusions.

 

[SteveWY]

Advice is taken. I will stay with it through the week anyway.

 

[novitiate]

My G-Bar is my least favorite GEM. I find the handle difficult to hold securely. This is the only GEM I have this complaint on. I think it is the best looking of all of them. Sigh.....

 

[SteveWY]

I used the G-Bar again this morning, following santamariasteve's advice. I think I improved my shave by holding the head almost flat against my face and I got better reduction and less scraping feeling. This angle was a little tricky around my chin and upper lip but I did achieve a better shave. I find the handle easy to hold and balance. But certainly the looks are what I really like about this little GEM!