Well finally had my first ever DE shave yesterday with the following combo:
Merkur HD34C
Astra SP
Proraso Green pre-shave cream
Proraso Green shaving cream
First impressions:-
- the merkur feels tiny! I was expecting a big heavy thing but it feels the complete opposite. My gut feeling is that I'd like a larger handle but I will continue with it for the next few months
- there were several passes where it felt like barely anything was lifted, however this is down to technique as the angle of the blade really makes a difference
- I had to re-lather and make several passes on the stubborn areas but there was absolutely zero irritation, an outstanding result considering what I normally go through with cartridges
- the whole methodical approach and the experience with the brush/creams was actually very enjoyable.
- the areas that I got right were very smooth
For the first time in my life I'm actually looking forward to my next shave. Thanks to the OP and all the guys who have contributed info to the 2 threads
Wow can't believe that was 9 months ago.
I'm still using the Merkur with every shave and have a tubful of blades still to try out, but I'm very happy with the switch to DE and it's been an enjoyable journey.
The blades that I find work best for me so far are Polsilvers, followed by shark super, and then Gillette silver blues. The Polsilvers just plough through anything no matter how course, and they are very comfortable and smooth. The sharks I'd say just give the closest shave, and the Gillettes kind of sit in the middle. Polsilvers are my first choice. Honourable mention as well to Crystal blades.
After using up the proraso green pre shave cream I moved on to the sensitive one, which I cannot actually use post shave as it burns my skin! Moving back to the green one once the other has been used up.
I really like the Arran aromatics shaving creams, very light and easy to lather. Just ordered some Claus Porto Amber cream to try

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