What blade for a Futur?

[stewartu]

I have a Merkur Futur coming in trade for some of my vintage closed-combs.

I shave almost exclusively with vintage gillette open combs using a Feather Hi-Stainless (with the black labeled box). I like the aggressiveness of the open comb, even though my beard isnt heavy.

But I was intrigued by the Futur and am looking forward to giving it a try as my first non-vintage razor.

Does anyone have any recommendations for a blade for the Futur? Will my usual Feather Hi-Stainless be needed or do you think some of the less-sharp SuperMax platinum blades be sufficient. I have a drawer full of those that I need to use up, too.

 

[saliavin]

The Feather works great in the Futur. I set mine around 2 for the first shave, and bump it up each following shave. I routinely have gotten 4 face and head shaves with the Feather before grabbing a new blade. And if you ask me, that 4th day is still smoother than some blades on day one. If you go the route of the SuperMax, I would suggest wide open. That is the only way those blades have felt smooth. I have found that the Futur flatters most blades, but you have to have the razor set to the blade. Whatever blade I try out with the Futur I start a 1, and rotate through the adjustments for the sideburns and cheeks on the first pass to find the best setting for the blade. Then when I get to the chin and neck I have the blade dialed in. Just a tip I picked up from Leisureguy on the Futur. When you shave make sure the cap is resting on your face as you shave. That is how I shave with it, and I love the razor.

 

[mheusler]

+1 on the Feather

 

[STLMike]

I've used Derbys in the Futur before. I find that 2 is about right with a Derby blade in it.

 

[The Don]

Yep, Feather with Futur set on 3 is my sweet spot. Enjoy your excellent razor!

 

[Bob L.]

I settled on Crystal Platinum Chrome blades. Tried a raft of others and the Crystals worked great for me. YMMV

 

[cwnidog]

I like a Shark at 2.5. But YMMV, of course.

 

[maxman]

A Feather on 2 is the best shave I can get out of one.
It's a fantastic razor.

 

[vocalistbob]

I like the Feather too. Even at a 4 setting, I get a comfortable shave.