When to get a Slant?

[FrankPoole]

Hello
I am just wondering at what point is one ready to start using a slant razor. Several posts and threads here recommend that it takes a period of time for one to be experienced enough to handle a slant. They are not for noobs.
Unfortunately there is no mention of criteria as to what is meant by being experienced enough.

 

[highball]

I personally think the slant is over rated, in my experience they shave the same as the HD.
I would say look for a used one and sell it if you don't like it.

 

[talibeard]

There are no real criteria I guess but some DE experience helps.

Do you want one; get one and try.

Do you need one; probably not since you asked....

Don't expect miracles, it is just another razor that some guys like and some just don't get the rave..

 

[DunEdinRanger]

No time like the present. I shaved with a cheap Gillette for less than a month before I made the plunge to the Slant.

I needed something that would cut and slice easily through my thick whiskers and the Slant fits that bill.

 

[curtis909]

i personally think the slant is over rated, in my experience they shave the same as the hd.
I would say look for a used one and sell it if you don't like it.

+1

 

[luvmysuper]

Having just got and used one, I can say that it certainly takes a little getting used to.
It's the first and only Merkur I have ever used.
It may be the same shave as an HD, if so - I'd say the HD takes a little getting used to also.
It certainly worked well for me, though for whatever reason, I did get a nick on the upper lip and chin, something I never do with any other razor I have.
Another reason I think it is so popular is that it just looks mean.
Get one and try it. If you don't like it I have no doubt you can sell it within 5 minutes on the BST, they don't last long there.

 

[wundergussy]

Its bark is worse than its bite. I did not find it to be a difficult skill to acquire, but I also did not find it to be a much different shave.

 

[JCee]

I just got a new slant, and I'm 2 shaves into it. I really didn't change anything nor was I unusually cautious and no nicks, cuts, weepers or even irritation. I thought it shaved quite well, but I didn't quite see where it gained the reputation of being a blood thirsty razor that requires a certain amount of experience. If anything, it shaved a lot like my other Merkurs, but perhaps a bit smoother.

I agree with the others. If you think it's something you want to try, go for it. If it's not for you, you should have no problem selling it here.

 

[ContenderhunterPA]

Yesterday is the perfect day to get one! I do understand that not everyone likes them, or can even notice a difference, but I get less neck irritation and a closer shave with fewer passes. On second thought, today or tomorrow would also be perfect day to get one!

 

[NewYorkBuck]

I have one, used it a few times, but was never sold. Conversely, my brother stole it out of my bathroom and did his inaugural DE shave w it and has ever since.

Different strokes.....

 

[Luc]

I personally think the slant is over rated, in my experience they shave the same as the HD.
I would say look for a used one and sell it if you don't like it.

+2

If you think you're ready go for it. Only advice, no pressure, take your time!

 

[rainman]

The shave will be similiar to your HD after the "getting over it" period.

 

[tlanning]

If your technique is good with your current razor, your ready. I really enjoying using mine, especially if I've developed substantial growth, (missed a day shaving). It would make an excellent 2nd razor. Just remember to use little to no presure and very slowly at first!

 

[cooncatbob]

If you have to ask, your probably not ready.

 

[Jason T.]

Hello
I am just wondering at what point is one ready to start using a slant razor. Several posts and threads here recommend that it takes a period of time for one to be experienced enough to handle a slant. They are not for noobs.
Unfortunately there is no mention of criteria as to what is meant by being experienced enough.

Have you tried a Rake Edge razor such as the Merkur HD Rake Edge version? I think they are a LOT more aggressive than a slant as there is no safety bar between the blade edge and the skin. I held a Slant Bar razor myself and I didn't see any real benefit over a normal safety bar razor.

 

[FrankPoole]

Have you tried a Rake Edge razor such as the Merkur HD Rake Edge version? I think they are a LOT more aggressive than a slant as there is no safety bar between the blade edge and the skin. I held a Slant Bar razor myself and I didn't see any real benefit over a normal safety bar razor.

I use a 39C.
My first razor was a Gillette SS mainly because of nostalgia; I used one in college.
Problem was the shave wasn't close enough so I moved up to a Schick Korona.
Then I got the Merkur and noticed a much smoother shave.
I was basing my assumptions on what I read in other threads.
BTW my slant is on the way in the mail.