Thinking about trying a DE, not sure where to start

[CrackFerr]

About a month ago, I started using tabac and now get 5-7 hours more out of a shave with either my current Personna M5 or mach 3 than I did with crappy, old shaving cream.

I can't help but wonder if changing razors and trying a DE might make the experience that much better.

The HD34C seems intriguing, and I would assume that much like a guitar, the LOOK matters (though not as much as the performance), so you will want to use it.

Where do I start? Should I go with the slotted style or regular guard?
Slotted seems like it might be a closer, more lubricated shave, but I'm a noob.....educate me!

I fall right into the "average" category. Average beard toughness, average skin sensitivity, slightly oily skin. I shave once a day.

 

[fleshdunce]

By "slotted" I am assuming you mean Open comb versus closed comb? I don't have any experience with an open comb razor yet, but from what I have read on these forums some people prefer them since they cut through the lather better as they shave.

With that said, that doesn't mean that you cannot get a nice shave with a closed comb design as well. The first razor I bought a few months ago is the Merkur HD34C and although I did enjoy it since then I have tried out a vintage Gillette and don't see myself going back to the HD anytime soon.

I'd suggest a vintage Gillette Superspeed of Gillette tech as they can be had for less money and give awesome shaves. Often you can find them in the B/S/T forums for less than 20$ bucks.

 

[gaseousclay]

i'd suggest a vintage gillette superspeed of gillette tech as they can be had for less money and give awesome shaves. Often you can find them in the b/s/t forums for less than 20$ bucks.

+1

 

[Monkeyboy]

Shaving with a DE requires some practice and experimentation but if you stick with it long enough to consistently get great shaves you'll never go back to your cartridge again. I haven't used my mach 3 once since I tried an HD about two years ago.

I would start off with a vintage gillette and a merkur. Most guys fall into one camp or the other, you just have to try them out to find out what is best for you. I like Merkurs. I alternate between slants, open comb and bar guards and get good results from all. You might as well go with something you like the look of though.

And most importantly, get a blade sampler pack. Good luck!

 

[moonshine44]

I would definitely go with a Super Speed or Tech before an open comb. Less chance of decapitating oneself...

 

[kingfisher]

Get a Tech. Easiest one to shave with for a newb, in my opinion.

Blade changes are much easier with a Superspeed, though.