Tech vs HD

[grouse79]

I've been using my favourite Tech for some time and I think it may have spoiled me. Loaded with a Feather blade it deals with my heavy stubble each day no problem and quickly. However I did think my other razors might have been feeling neglected so decided to try my HD, actually my first DE razor. Tried this with a Derby and a Feather in the last couple of days as I am aware it is a bit more aggressive than the Tech. Used the same brush and cream I've been getting great results with with the Tech.

Result - after a long absence I got reminded what a bad shave feels like. The blade, even the Feather, seemed to tug and left me with a raw, uncomfortable face and several bleeding nicks. I wasn't aware of using any pressure or angling it wrong and I've been using the DE for a couple of years. So is the technique with the HD really all that different from the Tech?

Anyone ever experience this?

 

[CoolBurn]

When you are used to the same razor for a long time I think you will almost always have problems when you switch. I use a Merkur HD and have for 2 years and always got great shaves. I recently bought a Muhle R89 and have gotten some very poor shaves. The Muhle is a great razor but my technique was just off with it. I have never used a Tech but I'm sensing it may be less aggressive and I assume lighter than the HD. Yes it could just require some getting used to.

 

[talbotdale]

I only own two razors. They just happen to be a Gillette Thick Handle Tech and a Merkur HD. I have been switching back and forth between these while I work through a blade sampler. I find that I always get great and comfortable shaves with the Tech, but my shaves are inconsistent with the HD. If I have good technique I get a good, irritation free shave, but it doesn't seem to be any closer than my tech shaves. If my technique is off I typically feel the burn on my neck, along with a few weepers.

Tal

 

[Oldguy]

The Tech and the HD are different as to blade angle so your muscle memory is tuned into the Tech. That is my experience. I change razors every day and find I automatically change angle depending on how the blade cuts right from the beginning. I have a HD but have not used it for over a year. I do recall it's not very aggressive but the Tech is too mild for me.

Len