Which Safety Razor Should I Get?

[vmank1q]

Hi, I'm new to the site.

This has probably been posted a million times, but I'm looking for some advice on which razor to buy.

I bought a cheap safety razor from Boots (in the uk) for a few pound, but now looking to upgrade to a better one.

These are my choices so far...

This Edwin Jagger one. Is it a DE89? -

A Merkur HD 34c

Or a Merkur Futur

These are my three choices so far. I'm open to other options though, maybe different brands I haven't heard of or something better.

I get a lot of razor burn one side of my neck (I don't know why it's just one side) so I need to take this into account too.

Thanks for any advice.

 

[jsrdrnr]

For a new razor I think the merkur 34c would be a good starter. If you come across a gillette super speed or a gillette tech those are good choices as well. Welcome to B&B!!! Glad to have you aboard.

 

[michiganlover]

If you are willing to consider a vintage razor, the vintage Gillettes are some of the best built razors available, and are still working perfectly just like the day they were built 50+ years later.

Consider either a vintage Gillette Tech:

or a Superspeed:

Both the Tech, and Superspeed are mild razors, which will be perfect for a newbie still honing their technique.

~John~

 

[vmank1q]

Ok thanks guys.

So what do you think about this Gillette Super Speed?

Is it worth the money?

Plus they have two versions, 1955 and 1956, is there any difference between the two? Thanks again.

http://www.safetyrazors.co.uk/shop/pc/viewPrd.asp?idproduct=196&idcategory=7

 

[vmank1q]

Never mind. I didn't realise the vintage ones were so cheap on ebay.

 

[michiganlover]

Nevermind. I didn't realise the vintage ones were so cheap on ebay.

Have you checked the Buy/Sell/Trade area of this site? Prices are generally better, and quality is likely better as well. There are good bargains to be had on E-Bay, but there are also a fair share of dishonest sellers.

You can find great quality Superspeeds on the B/S/T for around $20.00.

By the way, the Superspeed comes in many different varieties. The first picture I linked too is called the "40's style Superspeed" it was manufactured until 1953. The second Superspeed in the photos I posted is the "Flair Tip Superspeed" the 1956, and 1955 would both fit into this model category.

~John~

 

[vmank1q]

I've been reading reviews on this site and I think...I'm going to go with the DE89L (I think )

 

[s1mp13m4n]

My vote is for the Gillette Tech. I love mine.

 

[WhosYerBob]

Having tried the Futur first myself, I'd recommend the 34c in your list instead. However, I'd recommend going vintage with a Gillette Super Speed above all others first.

 

[talibeard]

I've been reading reviews on this site and I think...I'm going to go with the DE89L (I think )

Of the (new) razors you mentioned that would be my choice too; the EJ's as well as its german cousin the Mühle R-89 are very well made and easygoing razors.

The razor burn on one side of your neck might have to do with your growth pattern; I have to be carefull too in a few spots because the grain is all over the place. Short strokes do the trick for me there.

 

[ama015]

Personally I would have bought the Merkur 34 C, I have long fingers, so I bought the 38 C, it is a bit longer. Or you could go all the way and go for a Merkur 39 C Slant Sledgehammer

 

[lamina]

Indeed that EJ pic is a Muhle head...the new R89.I will buy it, not that one, but the original Muhle R89 razor, superior in finish and results to the Merkur 34C ...to my taste, YMMV.

 

[goby]

Here's a vote for a Super Speed or a Flair Tip.

Buy it from here, or from an ebay seller who knows his razors.

 

[dpmtherrien]

You've got a lot of good choices mentioned here, but one that's overlooked is my go to razor, the Merkur 1904. Check that one out. Its worth a look, and I think you'll be glad you did.

 

[SUMMERSRL]

When I started using a DE razor (again... after about 30 years of cartridge shaves....) I bought a Merkur and then an EJ. Both were good shaves. Then I tried a SuperSpeed (1950s style). Wow. What a great shave. So.... I would encourage you to consider the older razors. IF nothing else, they are generally cheaper and milder. Great for learning. And, quite possibly, great for the rest of your life!

Of course, you could be like many of us and just start buying everything!

 

[Tordu]

If you want to go with the best shaver from the beginning ,the Futur would be the choice .

It really shaves great.
Second is the Edwin jagger , Slightly behind the futur in terms of performance.

 

[bill mcdill]

I have a 1958 Gillette Redtip superspeed on sale in the B/S/T:
http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthread.php?t=115646
This shaver is roundly viewed as one of the finest in the Gillette Superspeed line-up. I am selling this user-quality shaver for only $17 shipped CONUS. PM me if'n you're interested.

 

[vmank1q]

Well I decided to go for the EJ.

It came back today and I gave it a go and it seemed pretty good. Still having razor burn but I think it's my technique and preparation, but with practice I should get better.

I'm still using a cheap brush though, not going to buy an expensive one for awhile. So maybe that has something to do with it.

But overall I'm pleased with the Razor

Thanks everyone for the advice, i appreciate it.

 

[vmank1q]

The razor burn on one side of your neck might have to do with your growth pattern; I have to be carefull too in a few spots because the grain is all over the place. Short strokes do the trick for me there.

I just seen that. Yeah it's weird it's just one side and it has always been like that. Maybe like you said the grain is all freaky like

Just have to see how it goes. I want to shave again now, but there ain't nothing there

Thanks guys.

 

[talibeard]

Well I decided to go for the EJ.

Congrats; excellent choice IMO!

I'm still using a cheap brush though, not going to buy an expensive one for awhile. So maybe that has something to do with it.

Unlikely; you can still make great lather with cheap boar brushes and, though you might prefer a quality boar or quality badger later on, these simple brushes do the trick too.