Feathers are fantastic. If you're looking for something very similar with just a touch less harshness try the Gillette Nacet. I get three uses from them and toss.
You are absolutely right Olivia. There is no substitute for sharp. There is no substitute for technique.When I first started I hated the first shave of a Feather too and would get little cuts. Now I get the best shave from the first one and no cuts. It had to be technique the whole time.