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Hello there!

Just joined the B&B forum and wanted to introduce myself. Have been lurking on this forum for almost a decade and learnt a lot from it. So thank you for your advice and guidance! Glad to join this august forum.

Have been DE shaving for quite some time and using very mild razors (34C, DE89 and R89). I enjoy them a lot but thinking about moving to some aggressive razors. Have made up my mind to buy Mühle R42. However, I have a quick question regarding R41 and I hope you would be able to guide me.

I have two options in front of me: R41 and R41 Grande (R41 GS is way too expensive). R41 is 65 grams for 95mm while R41 Grande is 88 grams for 105cms. When comparing the weights, I find R41 to be very very light (it is even lighter than R89). I was wondering if it might be more judicious to go for R41 Grande (as it’s a lot heavier). I understand that R41 is an aggressive open-comb razor and I might perhaps need a lighter version of it. What are your opinions about it please?

San
 
I own the R41GS. It is indeed heavy.

Since you asked for an opinion on the R41, here's my perspectie. My general rule is to get close shaves with as fewer passes as possible, as, in my view, more than 3 passes can lead to skin issues. When I have multiple-day growth (say, 3+ days), I will go for the R41 as it is fairly efficient in mowing the field in one fell swoop. It doesn't work as a daily driver for me (although I know some people use it daily).

While this is not something you have asked, here's an additional free opinion: I would re-consider opting for an R41 after the mild razors you have mentioned above. The 'aggressiveness' can be tricky to handle if your technique isn't on point. Generally, a slant would be a better option to experiment with a different razor.
 
I own the R41GS. It is indeed heavy.

Since you asked for an opinion on the R41, here's my perspectie. My general rule is to get close shaves with as fewer passes as possible, as, in my view, more than 3 passes can lead to skin issues. When I have multiple-day growth (say, 3+ days), I will go for the R41 as it is fairly efficient in mowing the field in one fell swoop. It doesn't work as a daily driver for me (although I know some people use it daily).

While this is not something you have asked, here's an additional free opinion: I would re-consider opting for an R41 after the mild razors you have mentioned above. The 'aggressiveness' can be tricky to handle if your technique isn't on point. Generally, a slant would be a better option to experiment with a different razor.
Thank you so much for such a kind and detailed reply. I really appreciate it. R41GS is a thing of beauty indeed, but out of my budget unfortunately. That is why I would pick up either R41 or R41Grande.

Valid point concerning the Slant; need to research them more. I was thinking about trying Open Comb before moving on to try the Slants.
 
Thank you so much for such a kind and detailed reply. I really appreciate it. R41GS is a thing of beauty indeed, but out of my budget unfortunately. That is why I would pick up either R41 or R41Grande.

Valid point concerning the Slant; need to research them more. I was thinking about trying Open Comb before moving on to try the Slants.
If you don't have heavy (daily) growth, it is better to stick with CC. Again, this is a matter of preference.
For R41 vs R41 Grande - the perspective I can offer is on the weight of the razor. Grande's additional weight comes from the handle. The purpose of handle weight is how the razor balances when you grasp it (like a pen, as it's a precision tool). As such, some people like heavier razors, whereas others people prefer lighter. So it becomes a subjective decision.
If you have not experimented with a heavier handle - you can either get a heavier handle on your 3-piece razors and see it feels for you - or, go with the R41 Grande (assuming you still want the heavier OC).
 
If you don't have heavy (daily) growth, it is better to stick with CC. Again, this is a matter of preference.
For R41 vs R41 Grande - the perspective I can offer is on the weight of the razor. Grande's additional weight comes from the handle. The purpose of handle weight is how the razor balances when you grasp it (like a pen, as it's a precision tool). As such, some people like heavier razors, whereas others people prefer lighter. So it becomes a subjective decision.
If you have not experimented with a heavier handle - you can either get a heavier handle on your 3-piece razors and see it feels for you - or, go with the R41 Grande (assuming you still want the heavier OC).
Thank you once again for such a kind reply, Sir. Highly appreciated.

I don’t think I have anything to lose by trying a heavier handle. My current razors all have more or less the same weight and size. Using a heavier handle might be an interesting experience. Thank you once again.
 
Welcome aboard!

Wish I could help with your question. However, I prefer razors in the ‘mild/moderate’ category such as your 34C or 89 series options. The R41 is just a bit too much for my taste. ‘To each his own.’
 
Welcome aboard!

Wish I could help with your question. However, I prefer razors in the ‘mild/moderate’ category such as your 34C or 89 series options. The R41 is just a bit too much for my taste. ‘To each his own.’

Hear hear! I have decided to go with R41 Grande. My reasoning being that I can use the Grande handle on R89 as well. Looking towards some Slants now…
 
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