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Switching razors... Recommendations?

SpokaneCY

SpokaneCY

Well-Known Member
Apr 11, 2006
13,294
8,484
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Spokane, WA
Been using the Mach3 for YEARS and I think I'm getting the 7-year itch. But since my wife won't agree to a divorce and nobody else will have me, I'm switching razors.

It has to be a non-electric - so who uses what and why?
 
dmclone said:
Do you want to save money, learn how to shave the proper way, but willing to put a little time (and possibly blood) into it?


Buy this as the razor
Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Safety Razor

Buy this sample pack
DE Blade Sampler Pack, Choice

Buy a shaving brush like this
Omega 21047 Banded Boar Shaving Brush

Buy some cheap shaving soap
http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Sapone-Shaving-Eucalyptus-Menthol/dp/B000MDCWWO


Do it for a month and then come back and thank me.
Click to expand...

This x 1000
 
SpokaneCY said:
Been using the Mach3 for YEARS and I think I'm getting the 7-year itch. But since my wife won't agree to a divorce and nobody else will have me, I'm switching razors.

It has to be a non-electric - so who uses what and why?
Click to expand...




Just start using a straight edge and you'll save all sorts of money.

I actually use the Mach3 as well, but I don't want to switch because I think I'm already paying too much for razors.
 
Gillette Fusion is 1000 times better than the Mach3. I'd been using the Fusion for a couple of months, then had to shave with a Mach3 razor and it felt like I was shaving with sandpaper.

I will have to look into this straight blade stuff tho. Looks intriguing.

Side note: there isn't anything I hate more in life than having to shave everyday. I have a very coarse beard, and shaving irritates the hell out of my face. I hate it more than Hawk fans and Husker fans COMBINED.
 
I have pretty course facial hair and sensitive skin that'll break out pretty nasty if I use a crappy razor. I was contemplating making a big change until the Fusion Pro Glide came along. One of the best shaves I've had in a long long time. It gets a bit pricey but it gives a good shave.
 
I use Feather razors. They are considered the sharpest blade known to man:shocked:, last about a week, and cost about 50 cents each. They are not for beginners.

I've now got 3 different razors, multiple brushes, etc. Just a warning that it will take you about twice as long to shave and you won't get it right for about 2-3 months.

I've tried straight edge but those require too much work. Sharpening, etc.
 
dmclone said:
Do you want to save money, learn how to shave the proper way, but willing to put a little time (and possibly blood) into it?


Buy this as the razor
Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Safety Razor

Buy this sample pack
DE Blade Sampler Pack, Choice

Buy a shaving brush like this
Omega 21047 Banded Boar Shaving Brush

Buy some cheap shaving soap
http://www.amazon.com/Proraso-Sapone-Shaving-Eucalyptus-Menthol/dp/B000MDCWWO


Do it for a month and then come back and thank me.
Click to expand...

How much time and how much blood? Is it just a matter of learning to apply a different amount of pressure, or is there a whole different technique to it?
 
dmclone said:
I use Feather razors. They are considered the sharpest blade known to man:shocked:, last about a week, and cost about 50 cents each. They are not for beginners.

I've now got 3 different razors, multiple brushes, etc. Just a warning that it will take you about twice as long to shave and you won't get it right for about 2-3 months.

I've tried straight edge but those require too much work. Sharpening, etc.
Click to expand...

So can you recommend a good styptic pencil as well? :smile:
 
CarolinaCy said:
How much time and how much blood? Is it just a matter of learning to apply a different amount of pressure, or is there a whole different technique to it?
Click to expand...

You will cut yourself but it doesn't really hurt and it makes you better. What you'll quickly learn is that you apply very little pressure and it's all about angle. You'll also learn about WTG and ATG. With the grain and against the grain.

It's important that your face is warm and you have good lather from soap. It's kind of an art form. Some people also shave in the shower, which works pretty good.

After a few months you can go back and try the Mach 3 or similar and realize that your technique has improved. The Mach 3 and others are so safe that you pretty much can put as much pressure as you want without cutting yourself. Plus the cost is stupid.
 
If you want something fancy you can get the Merkur Futur which allows you to set how aggressive you want it from 1-5. I also have this razor but it's really overkill for a beginner. I usually just stick with the one that I recommended above. The cool thing about the Futur is that you can actually hear the hairs being sliced.

You can find a lot more info here

http://www.shavemyface.com/forum/viewforum.php?f=17
 
dmclone said:
If you want something fancy you can get the Merkur Futur which allows you to set how aggressive you want it from 1-5. I also have this razor but it's really overkill for a beginner. I usually just stick with the one that I recommended above. The cool thing about the Futur is that you can actually hear the hairs being sliced.

You can find a lot more info here

SMF :: View Forum - ShaveMyFace University
Click to expand...

I picture you opening up your medicine cabinet getting ready to shave and it looking like a weapon locker for ninjas
 
Pro tip: Try rinsing your razor with alcohol when your done shaving. It gets rid of the water and prevents the edge from developing corrosion which is what causes the blade to become dull. If you rinse with water last the water will sit on the blade and cause it to start rusting. Try it. Your blades should last twice as long just by using a cheap bottle of isopropyl alcohol to rinse it with when your done.
 
You guys are way to pro at this. I use a mach 3 most days unless I run out of blades and then use some generic 3 blade razors I have. I have some everyman jack pre shave and shave in the shower. I seem to do ok, and have nicked in a long long time.
 
I've always used the Gillette Sensor Excel. I've tried the Mach 3 or whatever freebies have come in the mail but never liked one well enough to switch. I think the Mach 3 tugs at your face too much and is uncomfortable, the Sensor Excel seems to get a clean smooth shave without using much effort IMO.
 
I read on a crappy looking website that stroking the razor blades on denim is supposed to sharpen them. Is there any truth to this? I tried it once but didn't think it made too much of a difference.
 
Thread resurrection... I switched to the Merkur safety razor and have just about used up the sample pack of razors and soap. I want to try a new soap, but I want a container that will work in the shower. Anybody have any recommendation on soap to try and do you have a container that works well in the shower? The plastic container Col. Conk's came in doesn't work great since it's just for refills.

I do like the safety razor method, but I don't think there is any real advantage for my beard. Although, I think it's a bit cheaper than the Gillette that I was using.
 
MLawrence said:
I read on a crappy looking website that stroking the razor blades on denim is supposed to sharpen them. Is there any truth to this? I tried it once but didn't think it made too much of a difference.
Click to expand...

I am a believer in this but it destroys the gel strip on top on the razor. Not worth it IMO.
 
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