Got a EJ 89dbl on the way, but i'm already thinking in what's next you all know how it is, i'm thinking on a open comb so, do you think a Muhle R41 is too much for a newbie? is such a beautiful razor, or what do you think should be the first open comb on my collection? i know this is a YMMV question but just for fun what do you think about it?
Open comb question
- Thread starter jccalabria
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R41 is considered as very aggressive. I have 2 open combs: a vintage Gillette NEW and a Cadet. The NEW is mild but excellent. The Cadet is less mild, requires proper technique, but properly used is a superb shaver.
I'd get the one with the bulky handle (like tp-26).
I'd get the one with the bulky handle (like tp-26).
I agree that a Fatip or Cadet OC would make sense...and they are very affordable. I have the R41 as well, but the Fatip/Cadet will get you just about the same shave with less irritation for most people. On the other hand - a combo of a EJ89 and a R41 is a very good rotation indeed.
Find a Gillette NEW. You won't be disappointed! Out of my meager collection of about 10 vintage razors, it's my best shaver. It's mild but effective. I have recently used mine to mow down a 2 week beard with ease.
Yes, a New or Tradere OC.
A couple of my friends have begun their DE-shaving with R 41. It just takes a while to adapt to it, but it isn't a biggie, after all. Alternates on my mornings with a R 89. Reasonable price and a great shaver.
A few more notes. I think Muhles are overpriced, at least in the US. I'd get them from the UK sellers. I see no reason to reward the US Muhle distributor with business just because he feels like charging more.
Second, even at UK prices, I still think they are overpriced. They are made of Zamac and once the fancy plating is compromised they would corrode.
The vintage Gillette razors are made of brass. Mine is from the 1930's and it would last at least 80 years more. Cadet razors are also made of brass, so do Fatip and the upscale Joris.
Second, even at UK prices, I still think they are overpriced. They are made of Zamac and once the fancy plating is compromised they would corrode.
The vintage Gillette razors are made of brass. Mine is from the 1930's and it would last at least 80 years more. Cadet razors are also made of brass, so do Fatip and the upscale Joris.
It will only cause irritation if it is used with poor technique. The razor itself is not inherently prone to cause irritation.
The Merkur 1904 OC is a very nice razor to start OC shaving with. As you progress you can move up to the more aggressive OC's, like the R41.
The quality, fit, and finish of the Muhle razors are some of the best outside of custom made razors.
If you want to stick with a Muhle but don't want to rip a layer of flesh off with each pass look for the older version of the R41 which is a true open comb razor.
It is a step more aggressive than your EJ and the finish will knock your sox off
If you want to stick with a Muhle but don't want to rip a layer of flesh off with each pass look for the older version of the R41 which is a true open comb razor.
It is a step more aggressive than your EJ and the finish will knock your sox off
The quality, fit, and finish of the Muhle razors are some of the best outside of custom made razors.
If you want to stick with a Muhle but don't want to rip a layer of flesh off with each pass look for the older version of the R41 which is a true open comb razor.
It is a step more aggressive than your EJ and the finish will knock your sox off
Agreed. The R41 has a lot of big fans, but it is not for everyone. I personally don't think it should be your first OC. Aren't the old R41 heads similar to the Joris/FaTip heads but a little nicer than the FaTip finish and less expensive than the Joris?
As a newb, after using an EJ DE89 for a while, I acquired a vintage LC NEW, a FaTip Grande, and a 2011 R41. An unpleasant stop off with a slant in between. I got the FaTip on clearance in the gun metal, and the others on our BST forum, so good to excellent pricing across the board. Probably the R41 takes a bit more attention to prep and lightness of touch, but I found it the easiest to use while getting the least irritation. I recommend it, though I recommend waiting till you get a particularly good price. Especially if you're going to spend more on an aftermarket handle. But the handle is equally an issue with the FaTip, if your tastes run toward more substantial razors.
Yes - the R41 is a beast. I sold mine. I still use my 1904 OC.
Too much for someone just learning, but YMMV! i would wait until your technique is a bit more refined.
I get mild shaves from my NEW, I get great shaves from my Old Type.
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- #16
That Merkur 1904 OC looks good, the Cadet TP-26 and the Fatip grande also have a nice look, the Gillete NEW is the one i like the most cause is made in brass that is priceless, the R41 stiil make me drool but i'll have to wait cause i have a sensitive skin, so thanks a lot guys for all the info and the advises.
+1!!! I actually don't find it too mild, sweet spot. PM me if you're interested in buying one...I have one I could sell to you.
Take a look at the Merkur 15c open comb from WCS. I have one and it was my first open comb. Its a wierd shave cuz it feels so mild you think you forgot a blade but the hair just dissapears. No irriation and I call it my confidence razor cuz I know I'll get a DFS to BBS with no problems. Recently I've acquired a Merkur 11C open comb (which is discontinued) and its now my daily shaver. If you can find one, give that razor a try - you won't be dissapointed.
Galhatz cant agree more its a lot to pay for pot metal - i love my cadet i can shave with it and rake leave with it. its a great shave and feels built like a tank. the Gillette ventage are cheap to buy and also wonderful. I dislike paying big bucks for a razor that feels like something you fry with.
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