I am working up to spending circa $200-$250 on a new razor over the next month or two. I don’t need another razor, but it will bring me joy. I plan to justify it by selling some stuff. I had intended to buy a Feather DX Kami (I already have the folder) but open blade shaving is off the table for the time being due to my shoulder problems.
I wanted to prioritise EU made razors but having done my research nothing really appeals. If Blutt were still manufacturing, it would be an easy choice. They aren’t, so that’s the end of that.
So, I am looking at US options that won’t be pushed out of budget by shipping and taxes. I know there are guys here who probably own every razor on this list and more, so I would appreciate your insights.
Brass Bird – I’ve always been tempted and came close to buying one last year, but it looks like I missed the boat. I guess I could just keep my powder dry and wait for another run, but who knows how long that will be?
Karve Overlander – Sounds too mild for my tastes but it has very devoted fans and seems to be considered efficient for its given specs. The standard handle isn't my taste but I could swap it. I am tempted. Are there any folks that gravitate to more aggressive fare and still enjoy this one?
Yates – Mmmm...a brass, Yates 921-M in OC format could be the one. Is this still a popular razor or have folks moved on?
Timeless Bronze 0.78 OC – Looks like my jam but could be too aggressive? According to reviews this razor is no weenie. The SB version sounds too mild. I could be tempted to an SS Timeless in OC format although I wouldn't be able to afford the polished finish without blowing the budget.
Aylesworth Apex SS – Looks cool in a rugged, Leatherman kind of way. Specs are in my wheelhouse for the plus version. Downside: it’s not brass and one B&Ber reports alignment issues.
Aylesworth Kopparkant – Looks cool. Specs look right on. The big appeals are the material and competitive price although I was expecting to spend more. No plate options though.
Karve CB Brass – Not exactly the new hotness in DE razor land, but it’s attractive and I like the plate / handle options. A C or D plate in OC sounds right up my alley, although everyone seems to think the Overlander is generally superior to the original CB design.
So, it looks like I am edging towards:
I am thinking that I might get an Overlander on an Argyle handle then order a Karve CB C OC plate and cap at the same time. Two for one!
What am I missing? What am I discarding unfairly?
I wanted to prioritise EU made razors but having done my research nothing really appeals. If Blutt were still manufacturing, it would be an easy choice. They aren’t, so that’s the end of that.
So, I am looking at US options that won’t be pushed out of budget by shipping and taxes. I know there are guys here who probably own every razor on this list and more, so I would appreciate your insights.
Brass Bird – I’ve always been tempted and came close to buying one last year, but it looks like I missed the boat. I guess I could just keep my powder dry and wait for another run, but who knows how long that will be?
Karve Overlander – Sounds too mild for my tastes but it has very devoted fans and seems to be considered efficient for its given specs. The standard handle isn't my taste but I could swap it. I am tempted. Are there any folks that gravitate to more aggressive fare and still enjoy this one?
Yates – Mmmm...a brass, Yates 921-M in OC format could be the one. Is this still a popular razor or have folks moved on?
Timeless Bronze 0.78 OC – Looks like my jam but could be too aggressive? According to reviews this razor is no weenie. The SB version sounds too mild. I could be tempted to an SS Timeless in OC format although I wouldn't be able to afford the polished finish without blowing the budget.
Aylesworth Apex SS – Looks cool in a rugged, Leatherman kind of way. Specs are in my wheelhouse for the plus version. Downside: it’s not brass and one B&Ber reports alignment issues.
Aylesworth Kopparkant – Looks cool. Specs look right on. The big appeals are the material and competitive price although I was expecting to spend more. No plate options though.
Karve CB Brass – Not exactly the new hotness in DE razor land, but it’s attractive and I like the plate / handle options. A C or D plate in OC sounds right up my alley, although everyone seems to think the Overlander is generally superior to the original CB design.
So, it looks like I am edging towards:
- A mid-aggression razor that I can nudge up a little by using an OC plate (but options for other plates are welcome).
- Brass or bronze rather than SS.
I am thinking that I might get an Overlander on an Argyle handle then order a Karve CB C OC plate and cap at the same time. Two for one!
What am I missing? What am I discarding unfairly?
