The Best Safety Razors
A safety razor uses a single double-edge blade that costs about 10 cents. A cartridge razor uses a multi-blade cartridge that costs $3 to $5. The safety razor gives a closer, less irritating shave with a blade that is sharper than any cartridge. The handle is metal and lasts forever. The economics are simple. These are the razors worth switching to.
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How to Choose
Aggressiveness is the most important variable: it describes how much blade is exposed to the skin. Mild razors are forgiving and good for beginners. Aggressive razors cut closer but require better technique. A medium-aggressive razor is the best starting point for most people. The handle should be heavy enough to let gravity do the work. You should not be pressing. Weight and balance do the cutting.
Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Safety Razor
If you only buy one, make it this one. Read the full guide below for alternatives at every price point.
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Six things that separate the good from the rest.
Mild razors expose less blade and are more forgiving. Aggressive razors cut closer but nick more easily. Medium is the best starting point.
A heavier handle (3 to 4 ounces) lets gravity do the cutting. You should not be pressing. Light handles encourage pressing, which causes irritation.
Short handles (3 inches) provide more control. Long handles (4 inches) suit larger hands. Knurled or textured grips prevent slipping in a wet hand.
Two-piece (top cap unscrews), three-piece (top cap and base plate separate), and butterfly (doors open for blade loading). All work. Two-piece is simplest.
All standard double-edge blades fit all standard safety razors. Experiment with brands (Feather, Astra, Derby) to find the blade that suits your face.
Chrome-plated zamak (zinc alloy) is the standard. Stainless steel handles are heavier and more durable. Brass is premium. All resist bathroom moisture.
The Picks
Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Safety Razor
The most-recommended starter safety razor in the world. Medium aggressiveness, a short heavy handle, and a two-piece design that makes blade loading simple. The chrome finish resists corrosion. Made in Germany by DOVO/Merkur.
The safety razor most people should buy first. Medium aggression, great balance, and German build quality.
Find on Amazon arrow_forwardMerkur Futur Adjustable Safety Razor
An adjustable razor with a dial that controls blade exposure from mild (1) to aggressive (6). This lets you tune the shave to your beard and skin. Start mild, increase as your technique improves. The handle is heavy satin chrome.
The adjustable razor. Dial in your perfect aggression level. One razor that adapts as you learn.
Find on Amazon arrow_forwardEdwin Jagger DE89 Double Edge Safety Razor
A three-piece design with a chrome-plated handle and a mild-to-medium head. The Edwin Jagger DE89 is slightly more forgiving than the Merkur 34C, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin. English-designed with a classic knurled handle.
The gentleman's razor. Mild enough for sensitive skin, sharp enough for a close shave.
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