1. User
2. Codfish

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• Razor: Gillette Fatboy E1, Merkur 39C, 38C, Futur
• Blades: Iridium Super, Crystal, Red Pack IP, Feather
• Brush: Edwin Jagger Best Badger 23mm
• Soap: MWF, Tabac, Prairie Creations
• Cream: Proraso/Omega, Fraser's, Musgo Real, Cremo
• Aftershave: Boosters, Tabac, Ogallala Bay Rum
• Cologne: Usher VIP, Montale Black Auod, C&S No.88

I chose the 2010 model Parker 99R to review for several reasons. My first DE razor was a Parker 91R that I found serviceable, but only used for a month. It was soon replaced with Merkurs and Gillettes, and has sat in the back of my drawer for over a year. Recently, I heard about the quality improvements in the Parker line, and the aggressiveness of the 99R. So I thought I would give it a try. I am a fan of aggressive razors and use them exclusively. I wondered how this new model would stack up.

My first impression of the razor was that it was handsome and well-balanced with an outstanding handle and grip. I loaded it with a new Astra SP blade, which is a favorite that I am familiar with. I have used the razor with Astra blades exclusively for the past three weeks. This review is my impression to date:

Price: The cost of this razor (under $30) and the great shaves it gives should make it attractive to budget-conscious shavers at all levels of experience. However, higher-quality razor are available for just a few dollars more and may have better long-term value. I gave it an "8" because while it is a bargain, better made razors are only a couple of dollars more.

Quality: The overall manufacturing quality is good, but not as good as vintage Gillettes or new EJs in the same price range. The quality shows in the details. The exposed edges of the safety bar, which are neatly machined with hair guides on quality razors, are cheaply imitated by embossing on the Parker. On my 99R there are gaps in the combing that give the appearance of missing teeth. I admit this is a minor problem and cosmetic issue. The chrome finish is well done on all surfaces, and very nice on the barber-pole handle. Blade alignment and the screw mechanism are both excellent. I tried loading a dozen different blades and they all seated perfectly every time. The doors of the TTO mechanism seem lighter than my Gillette's. They work smoothly but flop loosely and make a clinking sound that is not reassuring. I gave it a "7" because it gives the impression of a razor made with manufacturing shortcuts, lesser quality control, and with questionable longevity.

User Friendly: I gave it a "10" because of its simple TTO operation that seated blades perfectly every time. It could not be easier to operate. The grip, balance and control I felt with this razor made sure, close, comfortable shaves easy.

Grip: I think this is the best feature of this razor and I gave it a "10". The barber pole spiral ridges provide a secure grip under slippery conditions. The handle is well-suited to those who prefer a longer, heftier razors with great balance. A "10".

Ease of Blade Replacement: Very easy TTO operation with perfect blade alignment every time. The light, floppy silo doors and their clinking sound cause me to question their longevity. An "8".

Aggressiveness: This is an aggressive razor capable of giving really fine shaves. With an Astra SP, it is more aggressive than most fixed-head DEs I own, nearly as aggressive as a 39C Sledgehammer, and comparable to a Fatboy set at "6/7'. This razor does give really fine shaves.

Adjustability: This is a non-adjustable razor. "N/A"

Balance: I like the heft and balance of this razor very much. It is neither top- nor bottom-heavy.

Overall: I like this razor very much, and it gives me some of the closest and smoothest shaves I've ever had. It compares well in shave quality to my Merkur 38C, 39C slant and Gillette Fatboy set at 6/7. It feels natural in my hand (I like substantial razors with long handles) and is very easy to control because of the excellent grip. On the down-side, I can't help but wonder how long it will last. There were minor quality issues with the texturing on the safety bar and clinking sound of the silo doors that make me feel it it not the same quality of other razors in its price range. These, in fact, may non-issues in the long run. It is too soon to tell.