Suggestions for a Beginner (AL13, Bison, Lupo, GC?)

[Cowboy Jackson]

Help, I am looking to buy my first DS safety razor and quickly falling down the rabbit hole.

I am looking for a decent starting razor that will give a pleasant low-event shaving experience. But I also really appreciate aesthetics and craftsmanship (which I would also consider part of the shaving experience).

Until I learn what I’m doing I thought of going for a more budget friendly razor: Lupo DE (aluminum), RazoRock Old Style, Rockwell 2C.

But then I think I might be happier spending a little more (and hopefully get a little better shaving experience):
Game Changer (.68), Henson Al13, SS Lupo 58, Timeless ALSB45, Aylsworth Apex (aluminum). The Karve Bison is probably my favourite (I could possibly be convinced to go with a different Karve razor, I just really like the company), but I really don’t have the frame of reference to choose.

I need some reigning in. I’m not even sure if these razors are appropriate for new users.

FWIW, I’ve used cartridge and electric foil razors most of my life. I still nick myself every now and again with brand new cartridge blades and just don’t like the feel of electrics. I don’t have overly sensitive skin, but do experience occasional irritation. Facial hair is fairly “average” (couldn’t describe it as soft, but not overly coarse for my age, 50 y/o). I’m not an everyday shaver, usually every 2 or 3 days (I can go 4 or 5 days and still plow through with a cartridge razor). For what it’s worth I live in Canada, so I have plenty of choice.

Thanks for any guidance you can give.

 

[SydneyShaver]

Look into the Rockwell 6c or mekur 33c. These are very low cost (comparatively) and mild and easy to use. The 6c is adjustable via its plate system so I recommend this one. The lupo and gc are significantly more efficient than both. I’d only really recommend it if you find the 5 plate in the Rockwell comfortable. If not, it may not be for you though there’s really no way to tell without trying.

 

[spacemonkey42]

One good strategy is to get the Henson AL13 mild or medium directly from the company. It comes with a 100 day return guarantee. If you love it, you've got your razor, if not, get your money back. No risk.

 

[MrSpeedy]

For aesthetics and craftsmanship, I don't think you can do better than a vintage SuperSpeed or Tech. Relatively mild, easy to use, and available on eBay for under $25.

 

[thombrogan]

Welcome to the forum, @Cowboy Jackson !

Every razor you’ve suggested sounds good.

It seems most people who’ve tried Karve’s Bison and the aluminum version of their Overlander say they behave similarly, only the Overlander had a recent price hike on the base model and on its options.

 

[Frito Ray]

Welcome aboard.

Before you go and spend a large amount of money on one razor, it would be wise to try and find out your personal razor style preference.

Mild/agressive? Open comb/closed comb? Straight/slant? TTO/ three piece? Etc…

You mentioned Razorback in your first post, that probably means that you are familiar with the Italian Barber site. They have a chart that rates the aggressiveness of their razors, AND the option of buying just the head of the razor (often for under $10). You could buy one complete razor and several heads of different characteristics to get your feet wet. After a while you will develop a preference, then you can spend the big bucks more confidently.

 

[dotKomo]

For aesthetics and craftsmanship, I don't think you can do better than a vintage SuperSpeed or Tech. Relatively mild, easy to use, and available on eBay for under $25.

You stole my thunder!

I second that. either one will give you a hassle-free shave and are good introductions into DE shaving. not to mention they are great razors. Once you get your technique down, you can branch out.

Just remember when coming from cartridges to use light pressure. Also, use short strokes until you get acclimated.

 

[BigJ]

For aesthetics and craftsmanship, I don't think you can do better than a vintage SuperSpeed or Tech. Relatively mild, easy to use, and available on eBay for under $25.

+1! Yes indeed, if you want a vintage option.

My standard recommendations for current production are either a 34C HD, or one of the EJ 89 series.

 

[1e4]

The Karve Bison is a fantastic razor and would be my first pick out of the ones you've named. The Overlander is also great if you're looking at Karve. If you want something a little more standard, I'll echo the recommendation of an Edwin Jagger DE89. A DE89 is a reliable, middle-of-the-road option that, in my experience, performs well under a wider variation in technique than some other razors out there — making it particularly suited for beginners.

 

[JCinPA]

All good choices, but an AL13++ aluminum might be your “for life” razor and as has been mentioned you can return it no questions asked. But all are good choices. I have a fe vintage, but use them “for fun”. Nothing shaves me better than an AL13++.

 

[D19M]

Agree 100%

 

[gpjoe]

Lots of guys like Henson. I owned one, and found that I prefer a more "traditional" razor design. The only two modern DE razors that remain in my rotation are the Game Changer (68P, 76P, and 84P) and a stainless steel Timeless 68SCL.

I'm also hooked on Gillette Techs, and use a Superspeed on occasion. Both are fine razors.

If you are like many of us, you will experience growing pains as your technique improves, and will likely try many (or at least a few) razors as you proceed.

Any of the "little more" razors you listed should work, but unfortunately you can only know for certain which you prefer by jumping in and trying some.

Welcome to the show.

 

[Jay21]

The best starter razor in my opinion is the Baili 179 TTO. It’s $6. It will not hurt you. It will teach you technique and can produce BBS shaves. Italian Barber sells it under the name Quick Change.

 

[SalS]

Get the Henson and spend your time and energy on something more important. I have a Henson +++ and never think about other razors like I did in the past.

 

[TOVT]

The Timeless ALBS45 is an awesome shaver. I even got a discounted scratch and dent model (no scratches or dents visible). No problem.

 

[Lane101]

@Cowboy Jackson , first welcome to B&B! I see you just joined us yesterday. Regarding razors the first decision you need to make is on overall design. Do you want a 2-piece, 3-piece, Twist-To-Open (TTO) and among those options do you also want something adjustable? Next, especially if you don't go the adjustable route, decide on how aggressive you want the razor to be. My recommendation would be to start on the mild to moderate side, master your technique, and then go more aggressive if needed or desired. Given that you still nick yourself with cartriges on occasion mild sounds like the best place to start. There are techniques, like "riding the cap" that can deliver BBS shaves with the mildest of razors with minimal chances of weepers.

For good solid functionality there is no need to go outside a $10-$30 price range unless you prefer the appearance of a specific modern design or the precision of CNC manufacturing (a key CNC benefit is not having to check for even blade alignment). As you noted an appreciation of asthetics you may still want to start with a razor or two in this price range to get a better sense of what works for you before investing in higher end models.

In the above price range you will get well designed razors (often clones of decades old proven designs like the Gillette Superspeed or Tech) that work well, are made of brass or zamac, and have high quality chrome finishes that will last years.

Note that modern TTO adjustables can be a bit klugey with serious alignment issues with most modern adjustables being 2 or 3 piece designs like the Merkur Progress ($60-$80). Recently introduced are two TTO adjustables that use the same type of adjustment mechanism as found in the classic Gillette Super Adjustable of the 1970's and 1980's. These are the Rockwell T2 ($100+) and Razorock Adjust ($15, rebranded Baili, also sold by Stirling). I've the latter that I picked up on sale and it works well. The T2 is well regarded here.

Other possible choices in this price range is the $9.99 Baili 179/Razorock Quick Change TTO noted by @Jay21 , Weishi 9306 TTO that I use (Long Handle version, this is a Gillette Superspeed clone, great with a moderate level of aggressiveness). If you prefer a mild razor the King C. Gillette 3 piece, that I also use, is excellent. It has a nice weight, is made of chromed brass and is well worth the $20-$30 it typically sells for. The Razorock Teck II (Gillette Tech clone) for $10 is also well regarded by many here.

Finally there is the vintage route, you could just go for a vintage Gillette Super Adjustable TTO. When sold they were designed to meet the needs of around 98-99% of shavers.

You will see a lot of vendor copy that refers to moderately prices razors as "starter razors". There is no reason any of these razors can't be your permanent razor or a regular part of your rotation for years. Back when DE safety razors dominated the market quality versions were sold for $5 or less in the 70's and 80's. That would be about $25 in today's dollars. I returned to DE shaving five years ago and have seen no need to go beyond my Weish, King C. Gillette and Razorock Adjust.

Finally have you decided what you want to in the areas of shaving soap/cream and brushes? If so let us know and if desired feel free to seek additional advice.

Good luck on your shaving journey!

 

[Cowboy Jackson]

Thank-you so much for all the advice, very helpful and lots to think about.
Some good suggestions, but also nice to know I’m not way off base with my picks either. Part of what I’m hearing is that the right razor can be very specific to each person, and I’ll just have to jump in to see what works for me.
In this regard how long should I stick with a razor to develop my technique versus just trying a different one (I.e. how do I know when it’s me or the razor?).
FWIW, I’ve been looking into the vintage Gillette techs. They are less of a deal when factoring in shipping/exchange rate for Canada, a 1932 “made in Canada” is what I’m hoping to win (even if I don’t use it as a primary razor, it would be cool to have one for historical value). I’m also leaning towards picking up the (somewhat controversial) Henson AL13 because of its reputation for being virtually impossible to cut yourself with (and the hassle free return policy). From what I’ve read the consensus would be to get the medium version rather than the mild even for a newbie?
I think the other razors on my list might be better second razors further down the line (I don’t even own one yet and I can see how easily the collecting bug sets in).
Again, thanks for the advice. I’m off to look into soaps and blades, and will probably be back with more questions soon.

 

[1e4]

. . . . In this regard how long should I stick with a razor to develop my technique versus just trying a different one (I.e. how do I know when it’s me or the razor?). . . .

I’m off to look into soaps and blades, and will probably be back with more questions soon.

Good luck with the Henson! For a beginner, I’d recommend sticking with it for at least 6 months. Technique is the most important factor in getting good shaves consistently, and it can be hard to lock in if you change too many things too quickly.

For soaps, here’s an excellent option. Stellar performance, simple ingredients, quite economical (it uses slowly) and made in Canada:

Canada Shaving Soap - Canada Shaving Soap

A few quick swirls with a shaving brush produces a thick, luxurious shaving lather for a premium shaving experience. Moisturizing and conditioning, this rich lather protects the skin, and softens the beard. Its amazing slickness, and outstanding razor glide, provide for an extremely close, yet...

canadashavingsoap.com

 

[spacemonkey42]

In this regard how long should I stick with a razor to develop my technique versus just trying a different one (I.e. how do I know when it’s me or the razor?).

Being new to this task/hobby, I too would recommend months, particularly since you don't shave every day. It takes a long time to learn and improve one's technique. We've all been there, enjoy the journey! You will want to take lots of time to map your beard and learn how to shave each section of your face. Lathering is also a skill that will need to be developed. Take your time.

I’m also leaning towards picking up the (somewhat controversial) Henson AL13 because of its reputation for being virtually impossible to cut yourself with (and the hassle free return policy). From what I’ve read the consensus would be to get the medium version rather than the mild even for a newbie?

Good choice. Since you said you shave every few days, I'd recommend the medium. However, it is NOT impossible to cut yourself with, I'm living proof. It is a tool with a razor sharp blade sticking out of it! You will have to learn a very light touch. I had to and it took me months to develop that touch. I started by adding way too much pressure.

One suggestion for you to consider... Start by shaving more frequently, but just do one pass with the grain. You could even shave daily. That will give you more repetitions with less risk. While doing that, learn the many grains of your beard. Once you've got all that down, add an across-the-grain pass. Do that for a while before you add the against-the-grain. I wish I would have done that. Focus first on a shaving your face without cuts and irritation, then go for a high quality shave later. It might sound counter-intuitive, but that path might get you to closer shave more quickly than diving right into a three-pass.

You've got this, have fun!

 

[syljal]

My personal suggestion would be to get yourself a Rockwell 6C and a variety blade pack.

I had the Henson + which I returned because I heated my face with it because it was too soft and I had to go over it several times to shave.

The Rockwell 6C is a very good razor for learning and acquiring good technique and thus knowing your tastes in terms of aggression.

The pack of varied blades will also let you know the type of blade suited to your shaving style and also according to the tolerance of your skin.

Over the years, I have purchased a 10th razor and the one I use daily is the Feather AS-D2. This razor delights me and has also greatly improved my shaving technique.