Ask Aaron Q/A: Would you recommend the Muhle R89 Grande?
Aaron answers a question about the Muhle R89 Grande Long Handled safety razor
Andrew Horwell, from the UK, asks:
“I have a Edwin Jagger DE89L razor and have recently aquired a Merkur Future razor cheap from a well know auction web site. I like the head of the EJ but I like the weight of the Merkur (the merkur head seems a little too bulky when shaving under the nose). For someone with sensitive skin, what razor could I look at that would be the best of both?. I have been looking at the Muhle R89 Grande, what do you think?”
AARON SAYS
“Mr Horwell,
Your comment of the head profile being hard to shave under the nose with is a common complaint with the Merkur Futur and Vision razors.
The Muhle R89 Grande is a good alternative and I would also suggest you look at the Merkur 38c and the Merkur Progress long handle razors.
The Progress is honestly my favorite and my daily go-to razor. It’s head has a slimmer profile than the Vision or Futur and I think you’ll find you have no problem shaving under your nose with it. Thanks for your question!!
Happy Shaving,
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: Do double-edged safety razors provide a superior shaving experience?
Aaron answers a question about whether a DE safety razor offers a better shave than a cartridge razor
Benny Saelens, from Belgium, asks:
“Dear Aaron, I have been shaving for many years using a Gillette Mach 3 and for the last year on a regular basis with the Fusion. I would like to have a better shave but also a safe one. Would you advise me to swap a cartridge type razor to a DE safety razor, and if yes, which one? I have rather sensitive skin. Many thanks in advance for your appreciated advise, Benny.”
AARON SAYS
“Benny,
With a little attention and technique the DE razor is just as safe as the modern cartridge razor such as the Mach 3 and Fusion you mention. I recommend the Merkur 34c, the Edwin Jagger DE86 or DE89, Parker 94R, or the Bluebeard’s Revenge Scimitar. These all are recommended for beginning shavers due to their mild blade exposure, which would be ideal for your sensitive skin. I think you will find the shave with a DE very rewarding and enjoyable.
Happy Shaving!
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: How to select the right double edge razor blade
Aaron is asked to recommend a double edge razor blade
John Marsburg, from UK, asks:
“What’s the quickest way to find a double edge razor blade that seems right for me? I’m a newbie and would like to settle on one fairly quickly. Any suggestions welcome. Reverend John.”
AARON SAYS
“Reverend John,
The quickest and easiest way to find the right blade for you is to purchase sample packs of blades. These samples packs usually include one box of 5 blades of several different brands to give you a good idea of what works best for your beard and skin type. I would recommend you start there. Also, try purchasing single packs of different brands and blade types if there are not samplers available.
Happy Shaving!
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: Switching to a double edge safety razor
Aaron is asked to recommend a double edge razor for someone who suffers from thick hair growth
James Walthall, from UK, asks:
“I want to migrate away from a Mach 3 to a DE razor but I’m unsure as to what brand to choose and whether to go for an open comb or closed comb razor. I have thick hair growth and suffer with irritation at the collar line on a daily basis. I use a silver tip Edwin Jagger brush with Edwin Jagger aloe vera shave soap. Any advice regarding the type of razor to choose and how to avoid the collar line irritation would be most welcome. Many thanks, James.”
AARON SAYS
“Mr Walthall,
I’m glad to hear you want to make the switch over to a safety razor! Since you are already using other Edwin Jagger products the DE89, DE86, or DE87 are all good razors to look at. The Merkur 34C and the Bluebeards Scimitar are also worthy razors for consideration.
As for the irritation around your collar there are several things your can try: shave only with the grain and across the grain in that area; use a good moisturizing balm as an aftershave not an alcohol based splash; make sure you are wearing the proper collar size and not one that is too tight; and use a light exfoliating scrub to help reveal and open the ingrown hairs.
Also, if you can try not shaving for a few days to help your skin heal and the ingrown hairs time to find their way to the surface. These tips should help you find some relief, and a good starting De to shave with!
Happy Shaving,
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: The Parker 80R vs The Parker 82R
Aaron answers a question about the differences between the Parker 80R & Parker 82R
David Kennedy, from UK, asks:
“Hi Aaron. I’m interested in purchasing a Parker 80R and just wondered if this has the same head as the 82R which you have previously reviewed? Thanks in advance for your reply.”
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Kenedy,
The Parker 80R and 82R are very similar razors. Both heavy weight and with butterfly opening doors to load the blade. Upon doing some research it appears that these razor will have the same “feel” and exposure. The difference is these razors lies in their cosmetic appearance. One razor, the 80R, has a crosshatch knurling (engraving if you will) upon the knob and handle while the 82R has horizontal lines machined into the handle and knob. I think you’ll get the same feel from either razor, so purchase the razor with the most appealing design to you! Thank you for your question!
Happy Shaving!
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: A good alternative to the Merkur 34C
Mark Southern, from UK, asks:
“Hi Aaron. Hope you are well. I really want to purchase the Merkur 34c safety razor, but every online shop I visit seems to be out of stock. Can you please recommend me an alternative razor, something which is similar in terms of weight, feel, look, aggressiveness and price.
Thanks Mark.”
Edwin Jagger Double Edge Razor DE89L
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Southern,
With the growth of popularity of wet-shaving I’m not surprised to hear there is a shortage of the Merkur 34c! It’s a great razor, but with it being out of stock there are some good alternatives out there too. The Edwin Jagger DE89 series is a great competitor, and very similar is head shape, aggressiveness and price. Other good alternative razors are the Muhle R89, the Merkur 38c (the long handled cousin to the 34c), Bluebeard’s Revenge “Scimitar”, and the color handled Merkur “barber-pole” razors. These should all serve you very well and give you the same shave as the Merkur 34c. A great question, thank you!
Smooth Shaving,
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: Top tips on extending the life of double edge razor blades
John Bennett, from the UK, asks:
“Aaron, I have a Merkur safety razor and also a shavette, both with disposable blades. (This is to avoid having to attempt to sharpen a straight razor). When using disposable blades how many shaves should you get per blade? And any tips on how to get the best from them? I usually use the Derby blades.”
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Bennett,
Thanks for your question! Unfortunately the answer is quite subjective. There are many variables on how many shaves a blades lasts and it also depends from person to person.
The best way to know when your blade needs changing is when it begins to pull the hair instead of cut it smoothly. Whatever that point is, whether it be two days or ten, is the time to change blades.
If you want to extend your blade life, swish your razor in rubbing/isopropanol alcohol or take a cotton swab that has been soaked in oil and run it along the blade edge.
This removes the water from the blade edge causing less corrosion leading to a dull blade edge. Try these tips and you’ll see an increase in your blade life!
There is also the option to invest in a razor blade sharpener like the RazorPit.
Smooth Shaving!
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: How to avoid nicks & cuts when shaving with a DE safety razor
Les Edwards, from the UK, asks:
“I have been using Gillette razors most of my life, I have just brought and used for the first time a safety razor which I bought from Boots, to say it was a bloodbath is an understatement, it looked like a suicide bid in my bathroom, I am assuming I did something wrong! Please help!! On the bits that remained blood free, it was the closest shave ever.”
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Edwards,
I’m glad you have decided to take the plunge into safety razor shaving!
A few tips should bring you closer to shaving without such a bloodletting. First, shower before you shave, and once you get out apply a good pre-shave cream or oil.
Next use a good shaving cream that is applied with a brush or your hand, not canned, pressurized goo! Third, study the way your beard grows and shave with the direction of growth for a while. You will just want to go with the grain until you master the techniques, it might not be as close at first, but you will reap the benefits in the long run.
Next lock your wrist as your shave and keep the blade angle at approximately 30 degrees.
Fifth, rinse your razor often to prevent debris and lather clogging up the razor.
Lastly, after all this use a styptic pen on any cuts or nicks and apply a good post-shave balm or cream to sooth and tend to your freshly shaven face! Put these int practice and I’m sure your shaves will improve in no time!
Happy Shaving!
Aaron”
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Ask Aaron Q/A: Should I upgrade my DE safety razor this Christmas?
Andrew Horwell, from the UK, asks:
“I have been DE shaving for a couple of months or so now and getting on a lot better. I use an Edwin Jagger basic-ish DE razor (think it’s the 29L or something, only cost about £20). I am thinking of upgrading my razor at Christmas but not sure what to? Would I be just best stopping with my current razor? I have sensitive skin and use Taylor of old Bond st ‘jerym’ and an Edwin Jagger best badger brush. Currently using derby razor blades.”
Merkur 37C Slant Bar DE Safety Razor
AARON SAYS
“Mr. Horwell,
I’m a pretty firm believer in the phrase “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” when it comes to things that are currently working. It sounds like you have a nice set-up that is working well for you. However, I do also encourage you to experiment and explore. You might find something that works even better for you. If you are looking to upgrade your razor, I think the the Merkur Progress would be a great next step razor. It is adjustable allowing you to customize your shave to your face and how the shave is feeling that day and is a great razor for experienced shavers. Some others you might want to contemplate trying are the Merkur Futur, the Edwin Jagger Chattsworth, the Bluebeard’s “Scimitar” and the Parker 90R. If you’re feeling really adventurous try the Merkur Slant. These would all be good upgrades and worthy razors to try!
Smooth Shaving!
Aaron”
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Introducing the Pils Stainless Steel Double Edge Razor (101NE)
The Shaving Shack is delighted to announce that we are now stocking the luxurious Pils Stainless Steel Double Edge Razor (101NE).
“When Pils say that they manufacture all of their handcrafted shaving accessories themselves, they mean it,” said Tom Trueman, head buyer at The Shaving Shack.
“Pils take pride in placing their logo exclusively on products that are designed and processed by hand, never using low-priced bulk parts.”
Finished in a gorgeous brushed stainless steel finish, this connoisseur two-piece razor personifies precision and craftsmanship from the German experts at Pils.
“Absolutely flawless construction combined with a very distinct design makes this the ultimate artisan razor,” Tom added.
US wet shaving guru Mike Sandoval, from Shaving101.com, rates the Pils 101NE DE safety razor as one of the very best.
He said: “I love mine, plain and simple. It may very well be the last DE razor I ever buy. Can I honestly recommend it? Sure, but with conditions.
“This is NOT a razor for beginners or those looking for a cost effective shave. This is a razor for those who have extra cash lying around asking to be spent, and even then there are razors on the market that cost much less and do a very nice, if not better job for some people.
“This is a razor for those who want a piece of art and craftsmanship that delivers a great shave if your technique is sound.”
Size
Total Length: 100mm
Handle Length: 90mm
Handle Diameter: 10mm
Handle Collar: 12mm
Weight: 115g
The Pils Stainless Steel Double Edge Razor (101NE) is available to buy online from The Shaving Shack, priced £159.99.
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