spec me a razor

[Substance]

Thread resurrect:

I'm in the market for a Merkur (been using an el cheapo Boots fixed-head safety razor for the past few months and feel that it's time for an upgrade), but when I went to the 2 sites people have linked to (Gentleman's Shop and Connaught) I was completely confuzzled by the sheer number and variety of Merkur models available!

How am I supposed to pick between lightweight head, heavy head, standard head or open-comb, adjustable or non, long or short handle, heavy or light handle, or any of the other stuff that makes each model different? I know people will just say "personal preference" but how can I know my preference unless I buy one of each and try them out? What difference does each parameter make to your shave? Which Merkur models are generally supposed to be the best? Which ones have people on here tried and which ones would you reccomend?

I would say the 2 Merkur razors that I have heard only good things about are the 34C heavy duty (my personal razor which I could never change) and the adjustable Merkur futur,

The best shaving related site I have used is The Shaving shack Have reviews from real people (even me ) and it is quite cheap and has a reward points system so if you buy a razor that will usually get you a good few blades free with reward points

 

[manveruppd]

I'm sure the HD and the Futur really are the best, but I'd really like to understand the terminology so I could know WHY! It's mainly the difference between open and closed comb and slanted and normal that I'm wondering about.

 

[Felix Da Housecat]

Mach3 for me with king of shaves shaving gel.

Have used thus combo for a few years but like the sound of this merkur razor, are they available from supermarkets?

 

[M0T]

I've always shaved before getting in the shower, normally removes all the small bits of blood and foam I still have left on me lol. I know a lot of people who do it the other way around, but it just seems more logical to do it then get in the shower imo.

Those of us with sensitive skin need the steam and heat of the shower to soften it or it hurts/irritates the skin. If I were to shave before a shower I think I'd give up from the pain.

 

[Sankari]

Mach3 for me with king of shaves shaving gel.

Have used thus combo for a few years but like the sound of this merkur razor, are they available from supermarkets?

No, you will need to buy online or find a high street shop which sells them.

Further to the shaving rash issue... I have found relief by leaving my collar button undone. The tight collar was chaving my neck after a shave and causing it to flare up in a rash. I guess I need shirts with larger collars, but for the moment it's all good with the collar button open. Might be a good tip for some of you others out there.