What's my upgrade path?

[ShavethAndProsper]

I think I'm going with a open 84.

Italian Barbers site is confusing me though. It says Head+Handle, is the base separate or included? Further down the base is listed separately and don't know if that's if you want to try aforementioned base with an existing setup or if it's a separate purchase

 

[megamac]

Thats

I think I'm going with a open 84.

Italian Barbers site is confusing me though. It says Head+Handle, is the base separate or included? Further down the base is listed separately and don't know if that's if you want to try aforementioned base with an existing setup or if it's a separate purchase

Hey Mate, so they give you options. The ones that mention head plus handle are for both and you can choose which handle you want like the head and Bulldog handle etc. But the head alone mentioned is only for that. There is a price difference. If you buy the head and then a handle separately then it will cost you more but if you buy head plus handle it works out much cheaper and is normally the way to go. The Razorock handles are grippy and very reliable except for the Halo which is kinda smooth.

I haven't used the GC .84 open but I do love their Gc .84 SB and the Lupo .95. Hope you have some great shaves with teh Razor you've chosen. Razorock are always top notch for quality and value.

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

Thats

Hey Mate, so they give you options. The ones that mention head plus handle are for both and you can choose which handle you want like the head and Bulldog handle etc. But the head alone mentioned is only for that. There is a price difference. If you buy the head and then a handle separately then it will cost you more but if you buy head plus handle it works out much cheaper and is normally the way to go. The Razorock handles are grippy and very reliable except for the Halo which is kinda smooth.

I haven't used the GC .84 open but I do love their Gc .84 SB and the Lupo .95. Hope you have some great shaves with teh Razor you've chosen. Razorock are always top notch for quality and value.

Thanks but to be clear, is the head considered the cap and base?

I'm still green when it comes to this world. Google images just shows the parts labeled individually

 

[megamac]

Thanks but to be clear, is the head considered the cap and base?

I'm still green when it comes to this world. Google images just shows the parts labeled individually

The Above if you select any one will give you the full Razor with your choice of Handle.



The second image will help you select only top cap and only base plate but as I can see, the top cap is out of stock.

My suggestion is just click on the head plus handle options and they will show you how the razor you selected looks. as well as the price for it. If you want a standard handle, choose the Bulldog or the HD, If you want it extra grippy then choose the Super knurled, If you want a Classic looking handle then choose the Barber Pole, If you want a funky handle then go in for the UFO. but yeah, go in for the head plus handle.

To answer your question again, Italian Barber sells the Premium Razorock Razors top cap and base plate separately, not together as a head and most often the top cap is out of stock. So get the whole Razor buddy.

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

Appreciate everyone's input and valuable opinions. In the end I was between the Lupo and GC.

Reached out to Italian Barber (got Michael the CEO, super friendly and responsive ) and some of his input. Ultimately I ended up choosing the SS Lupo 72 OC and will hopefully be here this week if not early next week.

Really looking forward to it.

Thanks again to all who joined in the thread.

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

I'd like to thank the Academy (B&B members who contributed in this thread) and the Director (Michael from Italian Barbershop).

I got the Lupo 72 Open Knurl earlier this week, super fast delivery and customer service. Today I got to finally try it out tonight.

First, IB's site says that there may be l imperfections, none that will affect the quality of shave and that they go for tolerance over visuals because it's a tool not a fashion accessory.
Mine doesn't have any apparent cosmetic issues but can absolutely attest to the quality. While my Merkur wasn't built bad, it's a Timex while the Lupo is a Rolex. There are no exposed blade sections for example. This thing is a beast though when it comes to weight. It weighs a chunk and a half.

Next there is the reputation that the GC 84 and Lupo 72 have. Maybe head shaving is drastically different from face but I can say with certainty, it's not as scary as people make it out to be, at least to me. I was careful but it didn't bite me even once. With aforementioned weight, just make sure you have your technique/glide down without pressing.

The shave is/was exceptional. I knew what Efficiency was but couldn't picture it until I used my Lupo. Single pass against is almost all that's needed. Incredibly close and smooth, it's what I expected all along. It glides nicely and doesn't catch. I can get super close without accidental knicks.
One definte difference is feedback. The Merkur had notable audible and tactile feedback but that may have been the lack of clean cuts/efficacy. So not a negative, just an observation.
Lather gathers nicely but doesn't clog and rinses nicely.

Ergonomics are hard to judge. (Let's the phallus jokes out now. WE GOOD?) Moving along. The handle is hard to tell I don't have a problem with it but it's fatter, heavier, and shorter than the Merkur. As mentioned it contours amazingly despite that. The cap is very steep(?)/shallow so you can get the perfect angle. The grip of the Knurl is super, didn't think it would slip once.

Result, my head is smooth as can be. No irritation (maybe less than even the Merkur). No cuts, bumps or bleeding. I couldn't be happier. My old Razor will have a nostalgic place in my heart but this is the new king.

A final note/possible observation. ItalianBarber and RazoRock are the same company. CEOs signature covers both companies. I don't know the behind the scenes logistics but both are run by the same guy.
Possible observation; These seem to be made in limited batches. A few I looked at were and had been sold out for weeks. I just so happened to come across the Lupo 72 Open Knurl, they had it in stock, I didn't hesitate. Order confirmed, was now out of stock. So if you see a model you want, I wouldn't wait too long.

If anyone has any questions, feel free to ask and I'll do my best to answer based on what I know. I'm only a 1.5month DE shaver, definitely not technique perfect but feel comfortable and confident in my work so far.

 

[Iridian]

Your journey is just beginning! There might be no ascension at the end, but it will probably be fun.

Razorock/IB being run by the same people is not news, that some people find the GC .84 to be already too much while I still find it rather very mild, that is also known. It is even worse for razor blades, there are people who love to use blades I rank in the absolute garbage bin, while they absolutely detest the BICs I frequently use.

YMMV is absolutely a thing here.

The CEO of RazoRock also has quite some reports where he was quite the opposite. An Australian user got a razor with a very ugly huge scratch on the cap, he got no support and love. Because their razors aren't jewelry can go many ways.

Their razors are made in batches and if they run out, don't be triggered by FOMO too much. Even the Wunderbar got made again after it was phased out for the Superslant. Getting a stainless steel razor when one wants to buy a particular model is indeed not always guaranteed for most makers. Many operate with waitlists or let people wait for months.

I personally love the Super Knurl handle, but it is spiky, hold it tight and you experience martyrdom light. That would go well with your user pic!

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

The im company situation may be known here but top Google results don't give a definitive answer so I wanted to just document incase someone else runs into which Vendor they know.

As for the the razors, again, you might know but top results talk about them being aggressive. I don't think they(lupo, don't have a GC) is aggressive either but again it is documentation if anyone else comes across this thread.

YMMV seems to be the case. As mentioned I had an excellent experience. I don't know the story behind the Aussie so I can't comment, only my experience.

You're right about FOMO (I hate that abbreviation, don't know why) is valid but at the same time, you could be waiting months/forever depending on the model so I stand by pull the trigger if you know you want it.

Lastly about the super knurl, that again may be personal preference. I don't think it's spikey at all. Could be my batch, could be my hands. It's grippy, but not at all dangerous feeling. I'd say if one has a death grip on their, razor you aren't comfortable with your technique and shouldn't be using something like this in the first place, just my opinion.

But anyway, all that aside, I'm very happy with the razor. I'm starting to get that curiosity itch I've been reading about though. Might order a 95 or 120 base. Don't know why but Jimminy Cricket has left the building and isn't telling me not to.

 

[JL 52]

I’m on a similar journey. I made the leap into RazoRock’s line of razors from the Rockwell 6C somewhat recently. I was using the 4-plate for head shaves and decided to go with the RR GC .84SB hoping for a stainless steel alternative to the 6C, and I immediately loved it from my first shave. Smoother and much much closer shave than I was used to coming from the 6C. My only concern was that I did notice a little post-shave sting from the GC .84SB, no nicks or major irritation but just enough to make me question if I could truly use it as a daily driver. I ended up ordering the GC .76SB base plate and the titanium Halo handle next. The GC .76SB ended up being the decent less aggressive option for me, not as good a shave as the GC .84SB but lower risk of irritation or nicks. Pairing the titanium handle with the GC .84SB appears to have been my sweet spot, exact same close shave but somehow without the sting post-shave; plus the shave is close enough that I likely won’t need back-to-back shave days.

I also ended up testing out some of the Lupo line. I first ordered the Lupo Aluminum kinda just for ****s and gigs and because it was only $40, but I think it ended up being my biggest surprise. I liked the Lupo Aluminum so much that I also ordered the .72OC and .58SB which were the only stainless steel bases available at the time.

The .72OC is an amazing combination of smooth and efficient; a tad more than the GC .84SB in both departments in my opinion. Although it was completely smooth start to finish, I did notice just a bit of sting post-shave. As of today I think I’m leaning towards the GC .84SB as my main pick, and the Lupo .72OC for the days I have more growth.

The Lupo .58SB is an okay mild option but I’d probably pick up the Lupo Aluminum on my lighter days instead.

I also ordered the Lupo .72SB and .95SB base plates to try out as well, so more to come…

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

I’m on a similar journey. I made the leap into RazoRock’s line of razors from the Rockwell 6C somewhat recently. I was using the 4-plate for head shaves and decided to go with the RR GC .84SB hoping for a stainless steel alternative to the 6C, and I immediately loved it from my first shave. Smoother and much much closer shave than I was used to coming from the 6C. My only concern was that I did notice a little post-shave sting from the GC .84SB, no nicks or major irritation but just enough to make me question if I could truly use it as a daily driver. I ended up ordering the GC .76SB base plate and the titanium Halo handle next. The GC .76SB ended up being the decent less aggressive option for me, not as good a shave as the GC .84SB but lower risk of irritation or nicks. Pairing the titanium handle with the GC .84SB appears to have been my sweet spot, exact same close shave but somehow without the sting post-shave; plus the shave is close enough that I likely won’t need back-to-back shave days.

I also ended up testing out some of the Lupo line. I first ordered the Lupo Aluminum kinda just for ****s and gigs and because it was only $40, but I think it ended up being my biggest surprise. I liked the Lupo Aluminum so much that I also ordered the .72OC and .58SB which were the only stainless steel bases available at the time.

The .72OC is an amazing combination of smooth and efficient; a tad more than the GC .84SB in both departments in my opinion. Although it was completely smooth start to finish, I did notice just a bit of sting post-shave. As of today I think I’m leaning towards the GC .84SB as my main pick, and the Lupo .72OC for the days I have more growth.

The Lupo .58SB is an okay mild option but I’d probably pick up the Lupo Aluminum on my lighter days instead.

I also ordered the Lupo .72SB and .95SB base plates to try out as well, so more to come…

My first experience was with open which is why I continued with open, second one I mentioned (which is the one I returned) was SB and wasn't happy with it. Curious what you'll think of the 95SB, definitely comment back.

As for irritation as I'm sure you know it's all up to the individual. I'm going to publicly humiliate myself for the sake of making a point about myself so here we go...

My head is like most people's face, I get a 5oclock shadow in a matter of hours. So last night I stupidly/lazily dry shaved with a 5 blade cartridge. Yeah... I reminded myself what razor burn feels like. So fortunately I didn't feel any of that with my Lupo so I'm on the right track.

Considering the 95OC next to test though I feel like I may hit irritation with that, not logic behind that thought, just a feeling but want to try it nevertheless.

 

[JL 52]

100%

The sting I noticed from the Lupo .72OC was slight, I probably won’t have even thought to complain about it if not for me getting the exact shave closeness without the sting from the GC .84SB on my previous shave.

The straight bar vs. open comb preference is definitely a YMMV aspect. I always just figured I’d be better off having a straight bar for head shaves and only tried the .72OC because the .72SB wasn’t in stock. Now that I have the .72SB on the way I’ll know once and for all if the extra sting I noticed with the .72OC compared to the GC .84SB was due to the Lupo .72 just being a bit more aggressive than the GC .84, or if was a SB vs. OC issue.

I’m expecting the Lupo .95SB will be a bit spicy for my taste, but figured it was definitely worth a try. I’ve read plenty of reviews of people saying that it was inexplicably smoother than the .72 for some reason.

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

As a relative new comer yourself, what are your thoughts (I don't know the official names) slat vs bump blade retention? Since you have both from them figured I'd ask. I was a bit nervous at first with the slats as most razors aside of butterfly's (which I didn't want) I've seen, including the GC, use a bump style design.

Happy to say no issues but wonder internally why the want with one style on the GC and another on the Lupo being the same company.

Edit also for your head:
What are you using in terms of soap/cream/gel?

I actually like Nicel and Bulldog. Cheap brands but glide like butter. Bulldog does lather nicer though and I think I prefer it.

Edit 2:
I also thought I loved Duke Canon Aftershave balm, which isn't bad but like Creamos blue aftershave balm better, it seems to stay tacky/on your head long which can be a good or not so good thing.


In all honesty, I looked into the artisan stuff but between the cost of a brush, the soap, a boal, stand, etc.. I'm perfectly happy with my "cheapo" stuff.

 

[JL 52]

The blade retention set up on the Game Changer vs. the Lupo is a non-issue. Neither are difficult to load and both hold the blade very securely. The Game Changer feels backwards and awkward for no added benefit, but it’s completely fine once you have the blade loaded. With the Game Changer you kinda have you set the blade on top of the base plate, then set the top cap from the top, then awkwardly screw the handle in from underneath, but at the end of the day it probably only costs you a few extra seconds.

As far as creams/soaps go, I haven’t gone too far down the rabbit hole yet. My go-to is the proraso red cream that comes in the tube. I’ve lathered it directly from my hand before when I’m traveling but having a brush and a bowl makes a huge difference. Plus the tube makes it easy to control how much you’re using each time. I’ve also tried the proraso green soap and it’s a solid option, I prefer the red cream over it though. Also tried and really liked the grapefruit Taylor of Old Bond Street shaving cream; my only complaint is that I seemed to use up the tub of it quicker than the tube of proraso red.

I decided to order a few of the RazoRock soaps in my most recent splurge, so I’ll have more to compare soon.

I’ve been using the shave bowl from Timeless and I really like it, I’m not even window shopping other options. I had some cheap $7 brush from Amazon and it’s been working well enough. Got a RazoRock 400 brush in this same splurge, so I’ll see if it ends making any difference for me.

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

I'm reconsidering if I want the 95 plate.

This seems to be a true YMMV in terms of efficiency. From a comfort standpoint however, it seems conclusive that the 95 is more comfortable than the 72. The reason behind this phenomenon I still haven't uncovered hours and hours of searching.
Since I don't have an issue with the 72, I'm not sure I'll see a benefit moving to the 95.
If anyone feels this is erroneous logic please correct me.

Not sure how B&B feels about links to other forums (mods please delete the link if not ok) but this is the only post I've found discussing the two who actually owns both.

 

[JL 52]

The Lupo's, both the .72 and the .95 are my favorite DE's. As mentioned before, I do find the .95 to be smoother than the .72, as weird as that sounds. If I had to choose just one of them, it would be the .95, as I am head shaver and it gives me great shaves every single time.

Lupo 95 would be my suggestion, but for me the 72 didn't work. I find the 95 much more comfortable and far less prone to irritation. I can shave daily with the 95 with no issues. It's really smooth with just a touch of blade feel.....great option for the price point.

Here are a few other opinions I’ve seen on the Lupo .72 vs .95 here on B&B.

I read enough positive reviews about the .95 that I at least wanted to try it also. Do I need it? No. But I still just wanted to try it anyway (mine arrives Friday).

If you love your .72OC maybe just stick with it. But on the other hand, the .95OC might be a better fit for you and you could be missing out…

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

Here are a few other opinions I’ve seen on the Lupo .72 vs .95 here on B&B.

I read enough positive reviews about the .95 that I at least wanted to try it also. Do I need it? No. But I still just wanted to try it anyway (mine arrives Friday).

If you love your .72OC maybe just stick with it. But on the other hand, the .95OC might be a better fit for you and you could be missing out…

Yeah, I think I need more time with it before I decide. I'm being impulsive, a bad habit of mine.

"Charlie bit me"

I don't know if I got cocky, skin was still irritated like hell from the idiot stunt last night or -lack of- technique (it's in a spot I've had trouble with since I started) but it full on grabbed hold tonight, woke me TF up lol. Who needs caffeine when a blade holds your scalp hostage.

I'll wait to hear what your experience and opinion is and in the meantime use mine a bit more (after that heals) before I rush either direction.

 

[JL 52]

Smart man! Impulse definitely got the best of me these last few weeks; just about all of my RazoRock orders were initiated after a nightcap or two

I’ll post an update on the .95 after I receive mine this Friday.

 

[cpcohen1945]

It really is time for IB to design, make, and sell for a reasonable price, an adjustable razor (or two) that would have blade geometry similar to the GameChanger or Lupo, and variable blade gap.

Think of how much trouble and money that would save their customers -- or on the other hand, how much it might reduce their revenue . . . <g>

As for the aluminum Lupo, I have been using mine when I don't want to think about technique -- not the smoothest shave, but the shave least likely to sting.

. Charles

 

[ShavethAndProsper]

@JL 52
Any gifts from a delivery driver yet?

 

[JL 52]

@JL 52
Any gifts from a delivery driver yet?

Delivery for my .95SB got pushed back to the middle of Saturday. And my .72SB is scheduled for this upcoming Wednesday.