The Sun newspaper puts double edge shaving firmly on the shave map
As you will probably be aware of the UK men’s shaving market is dominated by three big players -Gillete (owned by US giant Proctor and Gamble) and British brands Wilkinson Sword and King of Shaves (the brainchild of likeable entrepreneur Will King).
All three of these companies specialise in providing men with easy to use multi bladed cartridge razor systems, and in Gillette’s case, these products are backed and promoted with billionaire dollar marketing campaigns.
Thankfully there is still a market for traditional double edge safety razors, and its growing as more men get fed up with the increasing cost of cartridge razor blades. A recent study has found the annual cost of shaving with a Gillette Power Fusion, new cartridges and all, is an eye-watering £85.37.
But getting the message to the masses that double edge shaving is not only cheaper in the long run, but also much better for the skin, is a difficult one as the mainstream press favour the Gillette Power Fusion over the Merkur 34C and the Hydro 5 over the Edwin Jagger DE89.
Well that was until we contacted The Sun Newspaper journalist David Firth, who runs the highly popular Tried and Test section on The Sun website. David had previously tested out wet razors from the “big three” brands to see which was the best.
To our delight and slight surprise, he agreed to test three of our top selling safety razors – the Merkur 38c Barberpole, Parker 94R and The Bluebeards Revenge ‘Scimitar’ (which has graced the likes of the Daily Mail, Loaded and GQ).
So what did David think to the razors we sent him?
Merkur 38c
“My favourite of the three,” he said. David praised its balance, control and grip. “The diagonal thread design on the pole helps you keep a solid grip and I also like that you change the blade by simply unscrewing the base, rather than having to disassemble the whole thing. A great piece of kit,” he added. Price: £39.99. Buy here.
Merkur 38C Barberpole
Parker 94R:
“The big plus-point with the Parker is the grip – thick, diamond-shaped ridges help keep this lodged in your hand no matter how much cream or water is knocking about,” explained David. He added that he liked the light weight of the razor; but found the short pole a little fiddly during the shave. Price £19.99. Buy here.
Parker Model 94R
The Bluebeards Revenge ‘Scimitar’
David loved the look of the Scimitar. “It does look lovely, particularly with the laser-etched Bluebeards Revenge skull and cross bones logo on the razor head. As with the other two – it does give a great shave,” he said. Price £34.99. Buy here.
The Bluebeards Revenge “Scimitar” Double Edge Razor
Overall, David loved the theatre of double edge shaving. “You splash your face with warm water, apply a pre-shave cream to help the blade glide, then apply the shaving cream all frothed up with an old-school brush to exfoliate a bit and lift up your bristles. And then you can shave. It takes time but it’s a lot of fun,” he explained.
In conclusion, David said: “If you follow all the appropriate hints and tips on how to use double-edged blade razors properly – you can find loads of videos on YouTube – you will get the best shave of your life.”
Thanks for taking the double edge shaving test David, and for helping to bring such as a cool method shaving back in to the media spotlight. You can follow David on Twitter at @davefirth.
Read his full review by clicking here.
What do you think think to David’s comments? Let us know by commenting below.
Learn to shave like Bond, James Bond – Bluebeards launches cut throat razor shaving guide
Bluebeards release 007 inspired cut throat shaving video because ‘sometimes the old ways are the best’
Following a surge in cut throat razor sales with the release of new James Bond film, Skyfall, leading men’s grooming brand The Bluebeards Revenge have released a handy how-to film to ensure their customers know how to get the best out of their cut throat shave.
The short film, which has been made in collaboration with Jacks of London, is, of course, spy inspired by the film, and is full of top tips for the customer to achieve the correct technique when using their shiny new cut throat shavette razor.
Learn to cut throat shave the James Bond way
On the film’s cinema release, which included a saucy shaving scene with actors Daniel Craig and Naomie Harris, The Bluebeards Revenge saw their cut throat style razor sales surge ten-fold. The scene saw 007 receive a close shave using a cut throat razor with Harris uttering the words; ‘sometimes the old ways are the best.’
Shaving with a cut throat razor is certainly one of life’s pleasures as it will give you the closest possible shave. But it does take time to master the technique and you’ll certainly need a steady hand and plenty of practice.
The Bluebeards Revenge wants to ensure the customer really gets the best out of their buy so have put the film together to teach men how to get the best shave and women, how to give the best shave.
The handy shavette razor is similar to a straight or cut throat razor but is a more cost effective alternative and requires less maintenance as it uses changeable blades, meaning no stropping or honing. It can save time for those who are in a hurry, but still want to experience the luxury of a wet shave.
The Bluebeards Revenge crew visited Jacks of London’s upmarket Guilford barbershop to film the clip and resident Barber Sandra Morgan showcases her skills and talks you through the key elements and process involved when guaranteeing a great shave.
These include the correct way to prepare your face for a cut throat/shavette shave, holding the razor in the correct way, shaving in the right direction and after care for your skin when the shave is complete.
Justin Bullock, Marketing Manager for The Bluebeards Revenge, said: “We’ve had lots of customers wanting to ‘get a razor like Bond’ – it’s opened up the idea of cut-throat shaving to a whole new group of guys.
“Hopefully our cut throat shaving video will not only entertain, but it will also ensure men all around the world are clean shaven, and not stirred.”
Shaving Shack products shortlisted for coveted grooming award
Three popular Shaving Shack products have been nominated for a coveted men’s grooming award.
The Bluebeards Revenge’s beard-reducing shaving cream and the Men-U shave cream have been shortlisted for best shaving product in the Lookmantastic Hair and Grooming Awards 2012.
The Men-U Facial Moisture Lift is up for Best Moisturiser.
The public have until June 19th to vote for their favourite products, with the winner announced at an awards ceremony in London on July 11.
The Bluebeards Revenge and Men-U brands are no strangers to winning prestigious awards and accolades. The Bluebeards “Scimitar” Double Edge Razor was named the winner in the About.com 2012 Readers’ Choice Award for best wet shaving razor.
The brand’s shaving cream has also picked up two About.com awards and was shortlisted for a Pure Beauty 2011 grooming gong.
Men-u scooped an FHM award in 2004 for best wet shave product.
VOTE FOR OUR PRODUCTS BY CLICKING HERE.
Ask Aaron Q/A: Switching from a cartridge razor to a safety razor
Aaron answers a question about switching from a cartridge razor to a double edge razor
Shaun Lancaster, from UK, asks:
“Hi Aaron! Its about time I switched from a cartridge razor, and started shaving properly, and stopped throwing away cash! What would you recommend for a ‘newbie’ with a steady hand? Maybe something solid, but not breaking the bank? I do have some minimal scar tissue under my chin, so I’m slightly wary of catching it with a DE razor. Is there a starter pack c/w shave stick or some soap you would recommend? Many thanks. Shaun.”
AARON SAYS
“Hello Shaun!
We’re very happy to hear you want to join the ranks of wet-shavers around the globe! There are many great products out there to choose from, but for a beginners set I do have a couple of recommendations. The first is the Bluebeard’s Revenge cream & Doubloon brush set. This set gives you a great starter brush and cream to shave with, and allows you to choose your razor. If you’d rather get the whole kit in one shot and not worry about choosing a razor, I would recommend the Bluebeard’s Revenge Gift set, which include their Scimitar razor. This would provide all the basics you need to get you started on your journey. Whatever you decide, enjoy and welcome to smooth shaving!
Cheers,
Aaron”
Do you have any burning questions you would like ask our wet shaving expert Aaron Wolfenbarger?
CLICK HERE TO ASK AARON YOUR QUESTION
Shack products shortlisted for two prestigious About.com men’s grooming awards
The Shaving Shack is celebrating after two of our luxury shaving products were shortlisted in the prestigious About.com Readers’ Choice Awards 2012.
The Bluebeards Revenge’s beard reducing shaving cream has been nominated in the best shave cream category, while the brand’s iconic ‘Scimitar’ double edge razor has made the best razor (wet shaving) category.
The Bluebeards Revenge 'Scimitar' Double Edge Razor
The Bluebeards Revenge scooped two awards in last year’s About.com Readers’ Choice Awards. The brand’s shaving cream was named runner-up in the best shave cream category, and its post shave balm took third sport for best aftershave balm.
The legendary Merkur 34C was voted the world’s best razor in the 2011 About.com Awards.
You can vote for The Bluebeards Revenge at http://menshair.about.com/b/2012/02/22/2012-readers-choice-awards-vote-now.htm. Voting will close on March 21, with the winners announced on March 30.
About.com’s popular reader-driven awards program highlights the best products, features, and services across a wide variety of topics.
Ask Aaron Q/A: Shaving creams and soaps perfect for heavy, thick stubble
Joe Rennie, from UK, asks:
“Hi there, needing a bit of advice on recommendations. I have heavy and thick stubble and for ten years I had used a shaving oil with Zirh shave cream due to its thick and creamy consistency, unfortunately I’m finding it harder to source Zirh these days and was wondering if there are alternatives out there that will match it? I’ve tried some other makes and all seem very thin in comparison, which doesn’t give a good shave on my heavy stubble. Would I be best opting for a traditional soap or another cream. Like I say I have fairly sensitive skin and need a product that matches the thickness and consistency of Zirh shave cream, any suggestions? Many thanks Joe Rennie.”
The Bluebeards Revenge is designed for men with tough stubble
AARON SAYS
“Mr Rennie,
I hate to be the bearer of bad news but from my understanding the Zirh line of products has been discontinued, which is why you are finding them harder and harder to locate. For a thick brushless cream I would suggest you look at Baxter of Calinfornia, Barc, Pacific Shaving, or try some other creams such as The Bluebeard’s Revenge which can be used both with and without a brush. These all have that thick, protective cushion you’re looking for. Going with a soap would be a good alternative too. Mitchell’s Wool Fat shave soap is most excellent as also are the Bluebeard’s, Tabac, Truefitt & Hill, Irisch Moos, and Edwin Jagger amongst others. There are definitely some great products out there I hope this gives you some idea of the alternatives you can find!
Smooth Shaving,
Aaron”
Do you have any burning questions you would like ask our wet shaving expert Aaron Wolfenbarger?
CLICK HERE TO ASK AARON YOUR QUESTION
Bluebeards launch men’s cancer awareness drive after survey reveals quarter of UK men never check testes
World Cup winner Phil Vickery puts his weight behind unique on-pack male cancer awareness campaign
All Bluebeards Revenge packaging feature potentially life saving advice for men on the insides of the cartons.
The Bluebeards Revenge have joined forces with charity Orchid to launch an innovative on-pack campaign to educate men on the three uniquely male cancers – and it has the backing of 2003 Rugby World Cup winner Phil “The Raging Bull” Vickery.
The iconic grooming brand’s eye-catching packaging will feature potentially life saving advice for men on the inside of all its cartons.
It will encourage men to be aware of the early signs and symptoms of the three male specific cancers – testicular, penile and prostate – so they can seek advice from a GP as early as possible.
The campaign has been launched after a survey commissioned by Orchid revealed that three quarters of UK men (73%) recognise that a lump in the testes could be a sign of testicular cancer – but 25% still never check their testes.
The survey of 824 UK adults aged 16 and over, carried out by leading market research agency GfK NOP, also found that nearly one in three (30%) are not even aware they can check themselves for lumps. This is in stark contrast to women, who are more likely to take their health in their own hands – only 7% of them say they don’t check their breasts.
Phil said he was delighted to put his weight behind the campaign. The former England prop explained: “Male cancers don’t receive enough coverage and awareness and far too many men aren’t proactive enough in seeking help if they have any concerns. That’s why I’m backing Orchid’s awareness messages on The Bluebeards Revenge product range to promote life-saving checks and to encourage men to stand up and take action.”
All Bluebeards Revenge packaging feature potentially life saving advice for men on the insides of the cartons.
Rebecca Porta, Chief Executive of Orchid, said: “We are delighted to be working with The Bluebeards Revenge for 2012. This is a wonderful opportunity to encourage men across the UK to take a pro-active approach to their health and general well-being whilst raising funds and awareness of Orchid and male cancer.”
David Hildrew, Managing Director at The Bluebeards Revenge, added: “Our range is all about providing a great shave but we are also taking on the added responsibility of educating men on the early symptoms and signs of testicular, penile and prostate cancer. We are encouraging men to think inside their box.”
The unique awareness campaign will be rolled out across the UK over the next few months.
Formed in 1996 by former testicular cancer patient, Colin Osborne, Orchid is the only UK registered cancer charity to focus entirely on the male-specific cancers; prostate, penile and testicular.
They offer support and information to people affected by or interested in male cancer through a dedicated medical research programme, education and awareness campaigns and a range of support services.
World Cup winner Phil Vickery has put his weight behindthe campaign
The research above was carried out by leading market research agency, GfK NOP, which interviewed 824 UK adults aged 16 and over in the UK, between 19-24 March 2009.
About Orchid
Orchid is the UK’s only registered charity focused exclusively on male-specific cancers. Formed in 1996 by a testicular cancer patient, Orchid exists to save men’s lives from testicular, prostate, and penile cancers through pioneering research, the provision of specialist information and support, campaigns and raising awareness.
More information at www.orchid-cancer.org.uk.
About male cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common male cancer and kills 1 man an hour in the UK equating to 10,000 men p.a. Affecting men mainly over the age of 65, in nearly ½ of cases the disease will have spread before diagnosis making it far harder to treat.
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer amongst young men aged 15-45 and affects 2,000 men p.a. If caught early enough it has a cure rate of over 95% and yet in over 1/3 cases the disease will have spread before diagnosis.
Penile cancer, though mercifully rarer – less than 400 cases p.a., also affects men mainly over the age of 60 although there are younger cases. Sadly 1 in 4 men with penile cancer will not survive.
Ask Aaron Q/A: Upgrading my shaving kit, what should I invest in?
Chris Walker, from Hungry, asks:
“Hi there, I was wondering what next to invest in to upgrade my shaving kit? I currently own 2 DE razors (A Merkur 11c and a Muhle 89R) and these are great but I have a very cheap drugstore brush and cream. Which would you recommend buying first? A quality shaving brush or quality shaving cream to upgrade?
Many Thanks, C.”
Aaron says invest in a quality shaving cream like Truefitt & Hill
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Walker,
I would recommend upgrading to a better cream next. Using a better cream will much improve your shave and you can still use the inexpensive brush for quite some time and still get good results. I would suggest you try Bluebeard’s Revenge, Taylor of Old Bond Street, Edwin Jagger, Truefitt & Hill and many others you will find here. Good luck and enjoy the new cream!
Cheers,
Aaron”
Do you have any burning questions you would like ask our wet shaving expert Aaron Wolfenbarger?
CLICK HERE TO ASK AARON YOUR QUESTION
Bluebeards shave cream & post balm samples added to free gift selection
We are delighted to announce that we have added two new exciting products to our free gift selection.
The Bluebeards Revenge Post Shave Balm Sample (20ml) and Shave Cream Sample (20ml) can now be added at checkout.
The Bluebeards Revenge Post Shave Balm Sample (20ml)
Both products are designed for men with tough stubble and who suffer from painful shaving problems such as razor burn, lumps and rash.
They both contain the miracle component Decelerine, which contains a mixture of active ingredients that delay hair growth, reducing the frequency of shaving and depilation and at the same time providing a recovering effect on the skin.
Our customers tell us that using The Bluebeards Revenge virtually eradicates shaving rash, burn and those uncomfortable lumps and bumps.
So if you are a masochist and love a bit of pain first thing in the morning then you should not use The Bluebeards Revenge, as it will give you a clean, smooth, painless shave.
Both the shave cream and post shave balm have a retail value of £2.99 and will provide enough for a week’s worth of great shaving.
We also offer a number of different brands of double edge razor blades as free gifts – including Shark, Feather, Derby, Wilkinson Sword, Astra and Lord.
Simply add £9.99 worth of product to your basket and select your chosen free gift at checkout…happy shaving!
Win a luxury shaving set worth over £50
The Shaving Shack has joined forces with leading razor blade sharpener MagnaBlade to giveaway a luxury shaving set worth more than £50.
Win a luxury shaving set
Comprising of a quality Bluebeards Revenge starter pack and a MagnaBlade, this shaving set would make the perfect Christmas present.
The Bluebeards Revenge starter pack consists of a pre shave oil, a tub of beard reducing shaving cream, post shave balm, ‘doubloon’ shaving brush and some ‘manly’ smelling anti-perspirant deodorant.
Magna Blade is a revolutionary new product that extends the life and performances of most razor blades on the market.
It magnetically sharpens your razor blades, making them last 2-6 times longer than normal and saves you hundreds of dollars a year on razor blade replacements.
The increased bonding power as a result of being exposed to MagnaBlades magnetic energy field reduces the degree of instability of the molecules at the edge of the blade leaving a stronger, high-performance razor that will last longer.
To enter the competition, simply like both The Shaving Shack and MagnaBlade Facebook pages, then click the “Promos” tab on The Shaving Shack’s page and click the ENTER button. It’s as easy as that.
Good luck and happy shaving.
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