So I've been using the Merkur 42C for a while now and what I've noticed is that the razor, although being very forgiving and handy it's not very efficient for my growth. It even fails to take down some whiskers on ATG passes. I was wondering what is the proper option to move on to as a step up in aggression and efficiency? (Which also isn't an open comb [preferably] )
So where can you go further from 42C (1904) to?
- Thread starter Mr_Omega
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Merkur progress, 37c, Rockwell on higher plates. Gillette red tip as a vintage option.
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- #3
is a 37C that much different than a 34C? in terms of efficiency I mean
It’s not R41 efficient but it is different. Totally different head design.
Merkurs are kind of odd ducks, eh? A lot of us started on either the 34 or 38, then eventually might have encountered a 37 or 39. I like the brand because it was my first 
but I often find them a bit tame, and I am not someone who really likes untame razors. Or at least that's how I see it.
If you are looking for just a titch more aggressiveness, then I suggest getting a 37. If you are not in love with Merkur's "HD" handle (which looks nothing like a Harley-Davidson), then -- for even less money! -- get a RazoRock German 37. It's a three-piece razor so you can go crazy trying different handles.
A couple of decent alternatives exist. One is the Phoenix "Monster" slants such as the "El Fantasma" or "ElF." Another, less obviously gimmicky and reflective of modern insight into razor construction, is the RazoRock Superslant. If you find a 34 a bit mild to you, then I suspect the Superslant L2++OC might please you.
I recommend slants to those looking to step up because 1) they're cooler than "plain" DEs, 2) they can offer a much better shave experience in my experience, and 3) if you're about the shave and not the hype, they work like a charm.
O.H.
but I often find them a bit tame, and I am not someone who really likes untame razors. Or at least that's how I see it.If you are looking for just a titch more aggressiveness, then I suggest getting a 37. If you are not in love with Merkur's "HD" handle (which looks nothing like a Harley-Davidson), then -- for even less money! -- get a RazoRock German 37. It's a three-piece razor so you can go crazy trying different handles.
A couple of decent alternatives exist. One is the Phoenix "Monster" slants such as the "El Fantasma" or "ElF." Another, less obviously gimmicky and reflective of modern insight into razor construction, is the RazoRock Superslant. If you find a 34 a bit mild to you, then I suspect the Superslant L2++OC might please you.
I recommend slants to those looking to step up because 1) they're cooler than "plain" DEs
, 2) they can offer a much better shave experience in my experience, and 3) if you're about the shave and not the hype, they work like a charm.O.H.
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- #6
Aren't PAA's made outa fiber razors a bit too light? I feel like you can give yourself quite a razor rash ride with them (hence them being too light and you applying too much pressure.)Merkurs are kind of odd ducks, eh? A lot of us started on either the 34 or 38, then eventually might have encountered a 37 or 39. I like the brand because it was my first
If you are looking for just a titch more aggressiveness, then I suggest getting a 37. If you are not in love with Merkur's "HD" handle (which looks nothing like a Harley-Davidson), then -- for even less money! -- get a RazoRock German 37. It's a three-piece razor so you can go crazy trying different handles.
A couple of decent alternatives exist. One is the Phoenix "Monster" slants such as the "El Fantasma" or "ElF." Another, less obviously gimmicky and reflective of modern insight into razor construction, is the RazoRock Superslant. If you find a 34 a bit mild to you, then I suspect the Superslant L2++OC might please you.
I recommend slants to those looking to step up because 1) they're cooler than "plain" DEs
O.H.
Thanks a lot for the heads up tho, I'll for sure try to check out some of these options
The cheapest way to increase efficiency of a razor is simply to use a Kai blade. The distance between the two cutting edges with this blade is ever so slightly larger than standard.
If you want still more efficiency (without losing any comfort) then I wholeheartedly support the above suggestions of trying a Merkur Slant (37C or 39C). They are supremely smooth yet surprisingly efficient.
If you want still more efficiency (without losing any comfort) then I wholeheartedly support the above suggestions of trying a Merkur Slant (37C or 39C). They are supremely smooth yet surprisingly efficient.
I find them so, yes. Others love them as they are. I have the El Fantasma. I generally put a shim between the blade and baseplate (which opens up the gap just a tad) and use a stainless handle for additional mass. That works. Since I have both used blades and handles on other razors, those changes were effectively zero-cost solutions.
Could be a possibility if you're prone to that. Like anything else, putting in some time with it will build those reflexes that work best. Or you may decide to change the rules a bit and then get used to doing it that way.
O.H.
So if you want new Razor, budget is big deal.
Budget?
Budget?
What blades are you using?
That really works, I tried it a couple times except I didn't use a shim I just kept the handle a little bit loose. It's super aggressive but worth it.
TS should try an open comb razor like the Fatip Classic (23 euro)or the Fatip Piccolo (19 euro), they're pretty cheap and they're very good. Sure, their razors might not have that nice finish like the Merkur razors but if that's no biggie for you then give it a try.
I've decided to spend a little time solidifying my technique for lighter razors. It's been a persistent stumbling block for me.
I've tried loosening the handle once in a while, but with a couple of razors -- the ElF and the FOCS -- it was far too easy to loosen the handle too much. However, along with that I'm also working on making some locking handles, so if the blade doesn't have enough spring to keep a little tension on things I can shave with some confidence that I will not exsanguinate.
O.H.
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- #13
Hmm.. interestung cuz I've been using feathers and didn't feel much difference with the 42C maybe I should try Kais'?
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- #14
True. I've used shims too, which made the shaves more efficient but what I've noticed was that I was nicking myself more often than times when I wasn't using them.
but now that you guys suggest 37C or 39C I feel more comfortable about using them. thanks!
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- #15
$50 max
The 42C is definitely mild. I have one as a travel razor and I can get a satisfactory shave with it, but it probably isn't a razor for a deep and lasting BBS.
Certainly the Kai blades are worth a go. I might also recommend a pre-war Tech as something that is still mild, but probably more efficient than than the 42C. More of a leap forward, but a common recommendation for folks looking to step up from a Merkur to a CNC razor with a bit more aggression, would be a Gamechanger 0.84.
Certainly the Kai blades are worth a go. I might also recommend a pre-war Tech as something that is still mild, but probably more efficient than than the 42C. More of a leap forward, but a common recommendation for folks looking to step up from a Merkur to a CNC razor with a bit more aggression, would be a Gamechanger 0.84.
That's the trade-off you have to make. If you want to use a more aggressive razor, you will need to take your technique up a step too. Practice will make perfect - after a couple of weeks you will learn to handle the extra aggression.
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- #18
I've basically tried everything that I could get my hands on i.e. yellow Bics, pepsi Lords, pepsi Super-Maxes, black Super-Maxes, Treet new steels (which were horrid), Derby Premiums and Feathers.
Have you looked at Fatip? Brass, choice of plating, choice of handle size, OC / SB / Slant / Combination, cheap, efficient
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- #20
No, I really am not much into aesthetics but practicality.
funny thing is I thought of getting Fatips too but tbh I was a lil bit scared that they might be too aggressive for me
