New to DE Advice Please

[thedanman81]

Hi,

I am looking to get my first DE razor and give it a try. Any advice on choice of product. I have been looking at one of the Muhle's (R106/R41/R89) or one of the Merkur (HD 34C, Barber Pole 38C, 23C).

Is there much difference between them? What's the best product for a novice?

Thanks,
Dan

 

[JoshD]

Dan,

How Much are you willing to spend?

Josh.

 

[thedanman81]

I was looking between £20 and £35. All of those razors fall in that range here in UK

 

[blackfoot]

I only have one Merkur. That is the 34C HD.

 

[dpmtherrien]

I've found that you really can't go wrong with the Merkur HD, but the one I've found even better than that is the Merkur Classic 1904. That's my go to DE. It regulated my HD to back up status.

The 1904 just clicked for me, and YMMV, but its well worth checking out. Most of the shave sites have it, but a good description and picture is here.
www.classicshaving.com

 

[BladeDE40]

I think I'm already out numbered, but I recently got a 23c and love it...I personally like the lighter razor and the length of the handle. I upgraded from a heavier Parker. Either way I don't think you can go wrong with the Merkurs.

 

[bonusmarple]

I have the 34, barber pole, and R89. Of that group, I would recommend the 34. It has good heft, good exposure, and is well made. The R89 is a close contender, but I don't care for the extra length and the square points of the head can be a bit annoying.

 

[lungho]

I own a 38C. The handle is larger than other razors and is heavier. The razor, coupled with Feather blades, seems to handle my tough beard with ease. I have big hands, so I like the bigger handle.

If you got small hands or think you wouldn't like the extra weight, I'd go with something other than a 38C. But you can't go wrong with the Merkur brand, that's for sure.

 

[wimbouman]

If I were you, I'd really consider the R106 by Muhle.

It was my first razor and (after I used it this morning) IMHO still of of the best.
If not the best, in terms of results, comfort, craftsmanship.

B&B review is here : http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?p=1734976

W

 

[talibeard]

Another vote for one of the Mühles; for me they are way better in terms of quality,fit and finish. They shave great too but so do the Merkurs.

When you are from the UK you should take a look at the Edwin Jagger 3-piece razors; same head and quality as the Mühles but probably cheaper for you.

 

[HoosierTrooper]

Are you interested in trying a vintage razor? There are great deals available in the B/S/T, sometimes in the form of a complete starter kit.

 

[luvmysuper]

Are you interested in trying a vintage razor? There are great deals available in the B/S/T, sometimes in the form of a complete starter kit.

YES!!!
What this man said!

 

[JoshD]

I know that I will be selling a Super Speed. and I know that is a good razor for a starter, it is my type of starter.

Josh