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Trying to find the right DE Razor for me.

Hi everyone. Brand new poster here and I figure since I've been getting more into DE shaving recently, I might as well make an account here since I tend to use this site for information quite often.

Anyway, I've been on the hunt for a "perfect" DE razor for myself for a while now and wanted to know if anyone could help me find something that would fit my criteria. I've only bought and used one safety razor so far (a Merkur 20c) but I've found that it is far too mild for my face. Despite it being a fantastic shave, I know I could easily go for a more aggressive razor and get the ultra close shave I'm looking for. I also shave in all different directions, with the grain, against, and across, so my skin isn't particularly sensitive.

So, basically I'm looking for a DE razor, preferably a one piece with a longer handle, that's aggressive without being too unforgiving.

I've been looking at getting a vintage Gillette Slim Adjustable, but I don't really know where to get one (I like to stay off ebay as it's more or less a gamble with things like that) or maybe just get an Edwin Jagger off Amazon.

So could anyone help me out with this?
 
What kind of budget do you have?

The Edwin Jagger DE89L was being sold on Amazon for $28 a little while ago. I assume the price went up because of how close it is to the holidays. I also wanted to mention that it's not really that much more aggressive than what you're using now.

You can find all sorts of stuff on the B/S/T here and also on Etsy.
 
I also like the de89. as mentioned above its not aggressive but it seems to be able to shave most people fantastically.
Have you given any thought to a Gillette new LC?
 
Isn't EJ and Merkur about the same aggressive? OP wants a significant change from 20C.

Gillette NEW LC could be an option too, as suggested by roscotanna.
 
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Really really sounds like you are a good candidate for a Muhle R41 2011, or the slightly milder R41 2013. They aren't one piece. From your description of your skin the shave will likely be unmatched.
 
Welcome to B & B, Eskedette!!! All good choices so far, anyone of the above should fill your needs.
There is no such thing as a "perfect" razor. Part of the fun is trying "different" razors and comparing them. Some threads devolve into beauty contests. Most razors will get you where you need to go (and I think you are already there), clean shaven, looking and feeling good!
Find one that excites you, then give it a go.
 
If you want to try something between the mild ones and the R41, you might check out the Merkur 39C Sledgehammer.

It is a longer, heavier version of the 37C.

I love a slant.
 
Don't discount an SE razor. I've just started trying my hand with a GEM MMOC and have been getting fantastic shaves with fewer passes. If you want to stick to DE though then I'd go for a slant, I've always wanted to get my hands on one. :D
 
If you want to try something between the mild ones and the R41, you might check out the Merkur 39C Sledgehammer.

It is a longer, heavier version of the 37C.

I love a slant.
+1 and welcome to B&B! If you don't want to use a slant, try a 38c HD (long handle). Note, though, that both of these are vey substantial razors (hence the nickname Sledgehammer for the slant version). if you don't like big heavy razors, these wont work for you.
 
Definitely +1 to the 39C. Should be more effective with a closer shave than the 20C but not irritating like an R41 can be.

I'm convinced the R41 is for men with leather skin who can grow a full beard in 24 hours.
 
+1 for the slim adjustable. Pick up a good user grade on the Buy, Sell, Trade section. Most members describe and price their offerings fairly. Try various settings and blades for a month or so. If you are happy, you are set. Maybe upgrade to one in minty condition and keep the user grade for travel and backup. If it is not your cup of tea, sell it on BST and try something else. There is something very special about shaving with a 50 year old razor that has maintained its precision.

Marty
 
+1 for the slim adjustable. Pick up a good user grade on the Buy, Sell, Trade section. Most members describe and price their offerings fairly. Try various settings and blades for a month or so. If you are happy, you are set. Maybe upgrade to one in minty condition and keep the user grade for travel and backup. If it is not your cup of tea, sell it on BST and try something else. There is something very special about shaving with a 50 year old razor that has maintained its precision.

Marty
+1 except he likes long handles, so I'd go for a long handle Black Beauty (Super Adjustable).
 
Since you don't want to deal with eBay (I don't blame you some sellers can be shifty) it sounds like you're a perfect candidate for a long handled Merkur Progress. It will still be familiar to you since it is made by the same company, but you can dial it up to give you a more aggressive shave. You could also try the Futur, but in my opinion the Progress is better for less money.
 
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The Progress or the Futur would be great. I like the heaviness of the Futur and you can set it to be a chopping machine:001_smile.
 
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