props and questions

[CzechCzar]

So first of all, a somewhat-ungentlemanly but long-overdue piece of business: mad props to this entire forum. This is the nicest, most helpful group of people out there. Your collective knowledge and tips have gotten me addicted to being properly groomed, and I am eternally grateful. Holler.

With that out of the way, let me get to my question. In my RAD, I have gone through the Merkur 38c, several Gillette SS's, the red tip, etc., to settle on the humble merkur HD as my favorite. I am gonna get a merkur HD-style slant for Christmas, but already I am thinking of my next acquisition.

I have heard round these parts that the SE GEMs are incredible, with the right hand. Since I know how to use a DE properly, which SE would you recommend for me? I have heard that the GEM 1912 gets rave reviews round this neck of the woods, but wanted to ask everybody's input for my next project in 2010. Bear in mind that my preferred razor right now is not really that aggressive. The HD is gentle, but I can still get amazing results with it. For reference, I found a red tip to be too aggressive; only if I focused 110% while shaving would I not get some small weeper.

THANKS B&B!

 

[T Rick]

Being a lefty, I should point out that they're pretty good with the left hand, too. (click here and press the red button).

I'd still suggest the 1912. But if you really want the mildest, the Feather Weight may well be the ticket, I found that while very mild, I still get a BBS almost effortlessly. Still, the 1912 is a favorite. The only one I'd suggest yu stay away from (based on your experience with the Red Tip which is no meat cleaver) is the open comb Micromatic. While it's nothing to fear, it demands attention and a deft hand, at least from me.

 

[michiganlover]

I have a 1912, a G Bar, and a Bullet Tip Micromatic. All give excellent quality top notch shaves.

Start with the 1912, as they are widely regarded as being the best of the bunch.