Just bought my first safety razor...

[Benzadmiral]

I've just started using a safety razor after many years of (1) Norelco and Braun electrics (I actually cut myself with the Braun at one point!), and (2) cartridge razors for a cleaner shave after the electric for special occasions. Lee's Razors has the Merkurs and others, and when I emailed him for advice, he suggested the long-handled Merkur 23, because its proportions were much like those of a cartridge razor.

So I've been using it for about a week to shave the spaces around and below my beard (which looks something like Commander Riker's, if that means anything to you). Only once have I nicked myself, and it was minor. The shave soap, Pacific, works well, and the whole process goes quite easily. No burning; I spread some moisturizing cream on my face and throat, and I'm done.

Perhaps I'll look for one of those vintage Gillettes. As I recall, Ian Fleming had James Bond tote one. In one novel Bond prepares to use it as a knuckle-duster. (He winds up using his Rolex instead.)

 

[DeaconKC]

Welcome to the world of a new addiction!

 

[BR Gordon]

My favorite DE razor is the Gillette "NEW" long comb. It's a1930's razor and for me a good balance between smooth shave and not too harsh a razor.

 

[Matt Deckard]

What always strikes me funny is how you can buy the blades at any super market, but not the razor for them.

 

[MengerFan]

I have experimented with a dozen different blade models over the past several months. Feather blades are very sharp, but I can only get a couple shaves out of them. The Gillette 7 o'clock is hands-down my favorite. Of all the others, Wilkonsons are probably the best.

These have all been tested in a Feather stainless safety razor, which is a beautiful piece of workmanship. Beware that it is possibly the least aggressive shave you will ever get. You won't be able to cut yourself if you try.

 

[Matt Deckard]

You are challenging me to try.

 

[LoveMyHats2]

Well, I do own a safety razor...I use it when ever I need to donate blood.....lol!

 

[Preacher Man]

Well said LoveMyHats2, but if you really need to donate blood, try a straight razor; works for me every time....!

 

[de Stokesay]

When not using my straights I have a World War I Gillette Old open comb razor that I bought for traveling and a Gillette Tech. The Tech is really not a very aggressive shave but the Old type open comb razor, while much easier to use that a straight, is not at all tolerant to too much pressure. If you push with any more pressure than the weight of the razor you will nick yourself. That said though, if not using a straight, I find myself continually going back to the WWI Old type. It just gives such a good, smooth, close shave.

Incidentally, my record for a blade is ongoing. I started using this blade (a Nacet - with the crocodile on the wrapper) towards the beginning of June and will likely swap it out before much longer as it just doesn't cut as close any more. I usually shave about 5 times a week and do have quite a heavy beard.

My brother once made a pack of 10 double-edge blades last for 5 years on a WWII Gillette Tech. By the end of this experiment they were pretty much like butter knives though.

 

[BladeOfAnduril]

Very nice looking razor. I've used a Norelco all of my shaving life, with the occasional cartridge razor when I needed a closer shave for special events. You all, and many others have really intrigued me regarding safety razors. I'm currently looking for a 1959 Gillette Fatboy, as I've heard many great things about them.