I'm looking to expand my razor collection with something from Merkur. Caught between the 34C and the long handle 23C. I use the EJ 89 now, I like that weight looking for something heavy duty. Suggestions?
Which Merkur?
- Thread starter TGilly
- Start date
The Merkur 23C is a straight cut, closed comb, 3-piece unit with longer 95mm handle and 103mm overall length. It weighs 59 grams.
The Merkur 34C is a fixed-head 2-piece razor classic with a closed comb. The 34C's very heavy at the top, with a shorter, 75mm) handle. The weight is a solid 80g. Many consider the 34C a better choice than the 23C as your first DE.
The Merkur 34C is a fixed-head 2-piece razor classic with a closed comb. The 34C's very heavy at the top, with a shorter, 75mm) handle. The weight is a solid 80g. Many consider the 34C a better choice than the 23C as your first DE.
View attachment 280186
The 12C in the middle is the open comb version of the 38C. Both from the Superior Shave.
The 12C in the middle is the open comb version of the 38C. Both from the Superior Shave.
Both are great, but my vote is for the HD 34C.
I say go with the 34c. It was my first razor and I was very satisfied. It's a solid DE.
34C, no doubt
I second the motion.
+1 to that.
- Thread starter
- #10
Looks like the masses say the 34C. What is the best Open-Comb Merkur? I've never tried one but I like the look, I assume there is a different feel on the skin.
Have yet to try the 34c, but I am very pleased with my 23c. My fingers start to cramp with the shorter handled razors due to large hands.
34c is a solid starter without a doubt.
Well actually are you interested in upgrading to something more aggressive? maybe a 39c or 37c?
You didn't mention whether you were opposed to adjustables, but the Futur is pretty heavy-duty. I was at first turned off by its non-vintage look, but once I got it and shaved with it, I love it even though it looks like a redheaded stepchild (disclaimer - I love redheads; just using an expression and don't mean to offend either redheads or stepchildren, of which I am one.)
If you want a Merkur, get one of their flagship razors. The Progress or one of the slants...this is the way to go.
+1 on the Futur. I started with the 34c and moved right on up to the Futur and 5 years and a bunch of other razors later, the Futur is still my go to. It can be as mild or aggressive (although not overly aggressive) as you would like.
+1
forget that two, get a progress and never look back. You can thank me later.
Progress has one of the best head designs in the de world today imo.
Progress has one of the best head designs in the de world today imo.
Looking for something heavy duty? Love my 34C HD​
For an open-comb Merkur, my vote is for the 15C, or, if you can find one on the used market, an 11C. I don't like the 12C quite as well.
