Need help choosing a razor

[binder]

I need some help deciding on which razor to buy for my first DE razor.
I have been reading the posts and have learned some things, but
would like some help.

I thought of buying the Merkur HD, but I also want to look at other
razors. I would like a fixed head. The Merkur HD sounds good, but I
think I would like a longer handle, and I have heard about allingmnent
problems with Merkurs. I have heard good things about the Edwin Jagger
DE89. Is the there a problem with the grip on this razor? Is there a
razor like this that has a different handle. How is the shave on this
razor for aggressiveness?

I would appreciate any suggestions or help in choosing a razor. I would
like to keep the cost reasonable for the first razor; within $50.

Thanks

 

[CB_DoubleEdge]

I began in late July with the purchase of a 34C. I shaved with it for a month before buying my first vintage razor, a Gillette Fatboy.

As soon as I hit 50 posts and 45 days I'll be able to use the Buy/Sell/Trade forum. The first thing I let go will be my 34C. It's just too aggressive for my ultra sensitive skin. The Fatboy dialed all the way down to 1 is bliss for me.

I hear very good things about the DE89 from friends on another forum. They mention it is less aggressive than the 34C. None have complained of issues relating to grip. There is a mixture of DE89 and DE89L users. The DE89L has vertical lines to improve grip. The resulting aesthetic is mildly different as well.

Whatever you choose it likely won't be your last. Good luck, and enjoy!

 

[Munxcub]

Merkur 34C was great, as was my old tech, fatboy, old type OC and Artistocrat Junior. Those are all I've tried and they've all been good. My wife tried my blue tip SS and seemed to like it fine.

I don't think you can go wrong really, just take your time, get the angle right, don't put any pressure and don't be in a hurry to go for the BBS shave.

You can find old gillettes for a lot less than 50 bucks (or a lot more...) and it'll get you started.

Spend the money on a bunch of different blades, soaps, creams, a/s... heh

 

[Chester]

For my part, I'd recommend some vintage gillettes. A 40s superspeed was my first DE, but I moved to the flare-tip (regular) superspeed and liked it better. After the SS, I'd recommend a slim adjustable. You can find examples in very-good-to-excellent condition for 15 to 25, respectively. Look on B/S/T before you go to ebay. If you're not having any luck on B/S/T, PM me. I have some extras that I'd be willing to part with at those prices.
Hope it helps,
-- Chet

 

[JavPinero]

Having just purchased a 34C, I thought I would like a longer handle as well. I was wrong. The razor is quite hefty. Just had my first DE shave with the Merkur this morning and it went just fine. I had no problems handling the razor. I have been shaving with a Shavette (have some SRs, love the shaving, but not the maintenance) on and off for about 10 years, so that might have something to do how well it went for me, so YMMV.

 

[filedog]

The thing is, you won't know till you try. Lots of people (myself included) LOVE the Edwin Jaggers. I gradually stopped using all my other razors, and sold them. I'm even gonna sell my last one, a NICE Fatboy. Just don't use 'em. YOU however, may find a Tech, Slim adjustable, or Red Tip works best for you. Finding your perfect combo may take a while, but it's fun!

 

[Manco]

As said above, the EJ's are spectacular razors.

 

[Disburden]

If you want to strictly go the DE route google and find countryjoescollectibles and buy a gillette new or old type, you'll be set.

 

[rtt]

I bought a muhle R89 as my first DE razor and I love it - I haven't tried any others yet, but I'm 3 shaves in and no nicks or irritation from it. I think the EJ89 has the same head as the R89

 

[pauls51]

The R89 does pop up occasionally on the BST and are priced excellently... +1 to looking at some vintage gillettes

 

[jtb]

I started with the HD. Then I got a fatboy, a slim, a futur and a red tip.
Now all I've got left is the HD the futur and the red tip.
My HD doesn't get the love it deserves but I still like it.
I guess the idea is to get some, try'em, if you don't like them, sell'em!