So I went with the hype and bought a 2013 R41. My day to day razor has become the OC Merkur 25C. The Merkur is considered very mild, but I get a very close, all day shave from two passes. Because there's very little blade gap, it works with any blade I've tried, and any soap/cream. You don't really have to worry about prep, OK is good enough. Any blemishes on my face have gone largely unchallenged, it's very difficult to draw blood, so why on earth did I go for the R41, which must be pretty much the opposite of the 25C?.
The R41 on the other hand highlights what works for me and what doesn't, e.g. Proraso soap- not slick enough. Feathers - confirmed as rough. The R41 needs good prep no question. It needs a sharp but smooth blade, and it needs work on the lather to get it good and creamy.
I am viewing the R41 as a challenge. The biggest challenge will be something outside of my and the razors control, the little spots that inevitably appear from time to time that end up as little weepers.
The R41 on the other hand highlights what works for me and what doesn't, e.g. Proraso soap- not slick enough. Feathers - confirmed as rough. The R41 needs good prep no question. It needs a sharp but smooth blade, and it needs work on the lather to get it good and creamy.
I am viewing the R41 as a challenge. The biggest challenge will be something outside of my and the razors control, the little spots that inevitably appear from time to time that end up as little weepers.
