I picked up this razor before entering the restraint and used it for the first time yesterday.
Having never tried anything in titanium before, I figured this was a cheap way to do it. I also fancied having an option for AC blades when I am not using a shavette.
As a fan of heavier razors, I wasn't sure if I would like it. Well, this thing is great!
With a gap of 1.15 and 0.12 exposure, you might expect it to be a little on the aggressive side, but it's not at all. I loaded a Feather Pro, and even though this is a blade with a reputation for being a little harsh on the first use, I found the razor very forgiving, whilst also being delightfully efficient.
The AC blade coped with the difficult ATG pass on my jawline very well. All but the sharpest of DE blades can give me irritation there due to tugging and chatter, and sometimes I have to skip the pass altogether. The thicker AC blade stock, coupled with a relatively short clamp distance of the razor head, meant that the Shield sailed through that tricky growth with no tugging and no dramas - it was so easy it took me by surprise. Overall, it was a pleasant and comfortable DFS++ in two passes and minimal touch ups.
If I had to find something to criticise, I would say that the blade retention nubs on the baseplate could be a little taller and countersunk further into the cap. Talk about splitting hairs. It's difficult to find fault in a CNC titanium razor that costs around £58 ($73). When you consider that the obvious "market leading" titanium AC razor would cost close to £380 ($483) on this side of the pond, the Shield looks like incredible value for money. Its shaving performance would be great at any price.
How do I feel about the titanium? Well, overall I think I prefer heavier stainless steel, but it's not a dealbreaker by any means. Shield are now offering stainless steel as well, although this particular model is only offered in titanium. From what I hear, they are phasing it out so that their only AC option will be the AC1, which looks like more of a Vector clone. If you prefer a larger head like this one, get it whilst you still can.
I apologise for the crappy light in my bathroom, but here are some pics.
I know there are quite a few fans of the Predator here, which is the Shield GEM razor. I would say that if you like that one and are curious about the AC model then take the plunge, I would be very surprised if you don't enjoy it. I am looking forward to tomorrow's shave with great anticipation!
Having never tried anything in titanium before, I figured this was a cheap way to do it. I also fancied having an option for AC blades when I am not using a shavette.
As a fan of heavier razors, I wasn't sure if I would like it. Well, this thing is great!
With a gap of 1.15 and 0.12 exposure, you might expect it to be a little on the aggressive side, but it's not at all. I loaded a Feather Pro, and even though this is a blade with a reputation for being a little harsh on the first use, I found the razor very forgiving, whilst also being delightfully efficient.
The AC blade coped with the difficult ATG pass on my jawline very well. All but the sharpest of DE blades can give me irritation there due to tugging and chatter, and sometimes I have to skip the pass altogether. The thicker AC blade stock, coupled with a relatively short clamp distance of the razor head, meant that the Shield sailed through that tricky growth with no tugging and no dramas - it was so easy it took me by surprise. Overall, it was a pleasant and comfortable DFS++ in two passes and minimal touch ups.
If I had to find something to criticise, I would say that the blade retention nubs on the baseplate could be a little taller and countersunk further into the cap. Talk about splitting hairs. It's difficult to find fault in a CNC titanium razor that costs around £58 ($73). When you consider that the obvious "market leading" titanium AC razor would cost close to £380 ($483) on this side of the pond, the Shield looks like incredible value for money. Its shaving performance would be great at any price.
How do I feel about the titanium? Well, overall I think I prefer heavier stainless steel, but it's not a dealbreaker by any means. Shield are now offering stainless steel as well, although this particular model is only offered in titanium. From what I hear, they are phasing it out so that their only AC option will be the AC1, which looks like more of a Vector clone. If you prefer a larger head like this one, get it whilst you still can.
I apologise for the crappy light in my bathroom, but here are some pics.
I know there are quite a few fans of the Predator here, which is the Shield GEM razor. I would say that if you like that one and are curious about the AC model then take the plunge, I would be very surprised if you don't enjoy it. I am looking forward to tomorrow's shave with great anticipation!
I subconsciously inserted half DE in my mind.
