Parker 22R or Merkur HD for first timer?

[Zatx Woopyoax]

Hi all this is my first post on your forums. Got a question about a good starter safety razor.

I'm looking at either the Parker 22R or some variation of the Merkur HD.

I'm open to other suggestions, but these are the two I have narrowed down from my limited research.

What do you guys think?

Thank you.

 

[raisindot]

This same topic was posted not too long ago, and I assume you'll get the same answers.

If money is no issue, that maybe the Merkur. I have the Parker 22R, and it was my first DE razor and, while certainly not as good as vintage razors, is perfectly acceptable. Mine has no functional problems with it and I was constantly able to get BBS shaves with it. I only gave it up when people here convinced me to move on to vintage razors.

I would suggest the same thing for you. Being on this site puts you in proximity to the largest group of RAD enablers in the universe. I guarantee that six months from now, that Parker or Merkur will be sitting in your closet, unused, as you've accumulated a whole stock of vintage razors.

Which is why I suggest you give up on the new razors and begin with vintage Gillettes, which are much more solidly built, and have a great "retro feel" to them. You can also often find then here for less than you'd pay for newer razors.

Don't know what kind of face you have, but people often suggest starting with Gillette Superspeeds, which you can often get for around $10-$15 here. If you want greater flexibility, look for a used Gillette Slim (usually selling around $20-$25).

You may even convince someone here to let you try out one of these razors before you buy.


Welcome to the hobby! We'll make an addict of you yet!

Jeff in Boston

 

[scottb]

begin with vintage Gillettes, which are much more solidly built

+1. A low-cost Gillette is a great starting point and if it's in decent shape will last you for years.

I have used many Parkers and have several Merkurs. I don't know if Parkers always get a fair shake on the boards; I've had good shaves with them--but--Merkur is better quality and will last forever. But you can't go wrong with an old Gillette, and you'll save a lot of $$ while figuring out what works best for you.

Welcome + good luck.

 

[ozzy_scl]

This same topic was posted not too long ago, and I assume you'll get the same answers.

Being on this site puts you in proximity to the largest group of RAD enablers in the universe.
Jeff in Boston

Come on mate, We're not that bad!

While I cannot really coment on neither of those brands (I'm waiting for my Merkur HD) I would say if you stay with a safety bar razor for a while you're all set. Once You have improved your technique and know the angles on your face, you can move on to open combs.

I'm saying this because I remember on the early stages, when I thought pretty much all razors were the same, I didn't have a very good experience the very first time I tried a Bostonian... now we're like bread and butter!

 

[slantman]

Merkur HD hands down. Also most of the Super Speeds are too mild. The Parkers are OK but again some of them are very mild shavers and a lot of complaints about quality.

But you make the decision

 

[Zatx Woopyoax]

Sorry I missed the other thread where this was covered.

Thank you for the replies though.

 

[sodajerk]

Welcome!!

I say the HD because it is a little more aggressive. The aggressiveness will encourage you to adhere to a light touch as you learn, and, it will be better long-term when you've mastered the technique.

 

[dpmtherrien]

You can't, and won't go wrong with the HD. Its a razor that will last a good many years. I've heard about, and read of Parker DE's having problems. The Merkur's are more expensive, not a lot more, than the Parkers, but they're a better quality razor.

 

[rainman]

do not get a parker​

 

[buyandhold2018]

I use a Merkur HD and it's very well-built and functions beautifully. It gets my endorsement

 

[Pioneer]

do not get a parker​

My advice as well.

 

[pyrrhusmj]

I have... maYBE MORE LIKE HAD a Parker 22R. For the most part liked it. Did have a problem one day that has basically led to the demise of the 22r. I went to take a blade out and it wouldn't twist open. Finally used some pliers and it opened, but it turns out the screw that has the head fastened to it came apart and was lodged in the handle (I don't know the technical terms yet). So now it sits there (with a lost door also, but different story and completely my fault.


Michael