Blackland Osprey for a SE Shaver

[RRGGMM]

I shaved almost exclusively for a decade with an Above the Tie DE R plate razor and occasionally with an adjustable Gillette Fat Boy. I loved and still love DE shaving, but last year, I picked up an Above the Tie X1 Slant razor, and the single-edge artisan blades were eye-opening. Since purchasing the X1, 95% of my shaves have been with that SE razor.

Fast forward to my recent discovery that ATT is no longer in business with the founding owners and was acquired by Blackland, and my intrigue for Blackland immediately increased. Before I bought the ATT X1, I considered a Vector, but I tend to be loyal to companies and products I appreciate, so I went with the X1. However, my appreciation for Blackland keeping ATT alive is high enough that I ordered a Vector SS with the OC and SB plates. I have not received the Vector, but I am convinced, based on B&B reviews, that I will appreciate the shave. I am fond of the heft of my ATT razors, but I thought the lighter Vector (even in SS) would compliment my X1 and add some variety to my shaving.

My question applies to DE shavers that are familiar with SE razors. Have any of you switched to or tried SE razors but still use DE razors part of the time? I have several configuration options with my ATT DE razor base plates and top caps, so it isn't like I lack variety. Specifically, have you used the Blackland Osprey, and is that unique or good enough that you find yourself using it as much as an SE razor you love? Since I just purchased a Vector, I won't be able to justify another razor for a while, but the Osprey is a work of art, and I am extremely intrigued by the razor. Thanks!

 

[Star_Wahl_Clipper_Treker]

I've never shaved with an SE razor, I don't own any. I am a DE shaver, and I can tell you right now, out of the dozen razors I own, both 2-piece, 3-piece, and adjustables, the Blackland Osprey is the best razor I own.

 

[APBinNCA]

I went through a long enough SE phase to make some comments. The effectiveness of SE blades is undeniable, but the angle most of these razors hold the blade is pushing the limit for what my skin can handle. I would be able to shave for many days in a row, but I could feel my skin getting fatigued and probably a bit thin; I always knew I would have to keep some DE razors around for this reason. I like some of the older SE razors a lot, but they have certain downsides that make them inferior in one way or another to a well matched DE and blade pairing with my skin. Ultimately, keeping the DEs around led me to switching back to them as my primary razors.

I feel like there is room for both if one analyses how each razor fits into one's rotation; if a razor doesn't provide something that the others don't, will it get used? A Vector is a highly specialised tool and may well be the final solution for many SE shavers, there is now one other that should give it some real competition while having its own unique benefits. Adjustable DEs are a useful tool that is more versatile rather than specialised, one could theoretically avoid purchasing several DE razors if they wish to remain a primarily SE shaver. I have a couple and just end up using them on the same number all the time which negates their primary benefit, I wind up finding them disappointing at lower numbers. In theory, especially if one has an idea how they intend to use it, a razor like the Osprey could be very useful depending on its behaviour at different numbers. Based on reviews I have read, it seems promising for at least a few settings that should each be unique enough to justify the purchase. I think the design's best attribute might be the blade clamping solution more than the adjustability, it would feel a lot more predictable to an SE shaver than say a Blackbird. As Shane will no doubt add below my post, they have a 30 day trial and he encourages people to take advantage of it without any catches.

 

[RRGGMM]

I went through a long enough SE phase to make some comments. The effectiveness of SE blades is undeniable, but the angle most of these razors hold the blade is pushing the limit for what my skin can handle. I would be able to shave for many days in a row, but I could feel my skin getting fatigued and probably a bit thin; I always knew I would have to keep some DE razors around for this reason. I like some of the older SE razors a lot, but they have certain downsides that make them inferior in one way or another to a well matched DE and blade pairing with my skin. Ultimately, keeping the DEs around led me to switching back to them as my primary razors.

I feel like there is room for both if one analyses how each razor fits into one's rotation; if a razor doesn't provide something that the others don't, will it get used? A Vector is a highly specialised tool and may well be the final solution for many SE shavers, there is now one other that should give it some real competition while having its own unique benefits. Adjustable DEs are a useful tool that is more versatile rather than specialised, one could theoretically avoid purchasing several DE razors if they wish to remain a primarily SE shaver. I have a couple and just end up using them on the same number all the time which negates their primary benefit, I wind up finding them disappointing at lower numbers. In theory, especially if one has an idea how they intend to use it, a razor like the Osprey could be very useful depending on its behaviour at different numbers. Based on reviews I have read, it seems promising for at least a few settings that should each be unique enough to justify the purchase. I think the design's best attribute might be the blade clamping solution more than the adjustability, it would feel a lot more predictable to an SE shaver than say a Blackbird. As Shane will no doubt add below my post, they have a 30 day trial and he encourages people to take advantage of it without any catches.

My Above the Tie X1 is actually pretty mild while still being efficient. But for most DE razors, I am not a huge fan of mild. After a decade of using an R baseplate on my ATT DE razor, the new SSRH baseplate I purchased at the same time I bought the X1 actually feels better. Thanks for your input. I am gathering that an Osprey would be a purchase because I think the razor is super cool. I don't necessarily think it would add something radically different from my current options. That doesn't mean I won't get one, but it will probably be down the road.

I should add that I do not sell any of my shaving purchases. I enjoy having all the options and use them all again eventually. With DE razors, I normally get two shaves from a blade and use the same razor until the blade is finished. However, I typically get around ten shaves with my SE razor, and at times will set it aside before the blade is finished in favor of something else. Now that I have several options, I am enjoying mixing it up. My next shave will be with my ATT S1 DE Slant. I've only used that razor a couple of times, and candidly don't remember what I thought of it. I will probably use it through a blade or two to get reacquainted.

 

[catchacoolbreeze]

The angle most of these razors hold the blade is pushing the limit for what my skin can handle.

Of the SE varieties, I have only tried AC razors and they have not beaten my DE razors. I attribute it to the quote above. I've had a Vector, Paradigm, and Colonial The General and when you look at the blade relative to the top and bottom cap - it looks considerably steeper than my best shaving DEs. If I wait 4 or 5 days in between shaves, I can get that one good shave and I really like the feeling of stiff blades destroying whiskers. I do like milder shavers so this doesn't seem to apply to you, but those are my findings.

 

[RRGGMM]

Of the SE varieties, I have only tried AC razors and they have not beaten my DE razors. I attribute it to the quote above. I've had a Vector, Paradigm, and Colonial The General and when you look at the blade relative to the top and bottom cap - it looks considerably steeper than my best shaving DEs. If I wait 4 or 5 days in between shaves, I can get that one good shave and I really like the feeling of stiff blades destroying whiskers. I do like milder shavers so this doesn't seem to apply to you, but those are my findings.

Interesting comment. My only SE razor (until my Vector arrives) is the well regarded Above the Tie X1, and I have not found that razor to be particularly sensitive to angle, nor do I find a particularly extreme angle required. With my X1 I am able to be cavalier in my shaves, bordering on reckless, without any issues. I plan to get comfortable with my soon to arrive Vector before I make another purchase, but I am leaning towards another DE, especially since I just sent off my old ATT S1 Slant. The S1 intrigued me, but didn't work the way I expected it to. I am still infatuated with the Osprey, but the Blackbird is now on my radar for another DE razor.

I borrowed my Grandfather's Gillette Fatboy as a teenager, so the Fatboy I own has sentimental significance, and provides a great shave. However, I use the Fatboy permanently set on #7, and I imagine with an Osprey I would find a setting I like and never change it, which seems to defeat the purpose. I don't know if a Blackbird would provide much variety from my current ATT options, but it seems like a well regarded razor. It looks like I need to spend some time down the DE razor rabbit-hole and see what piques my interest!

 

[RRGGMM]

Most with Acquisition Disorder can probably relate to wanting to decide on their purchase in order to move on with life! After reading hundreds of posts on B&B about the different razors I have considered, I ordered a Ti Blackbird to round out my collection.

I strongly considered an Atelier Durdan La Faulx, but the long lead time and subsequent delayed satisfaction of ownership are not ideal. I also had concerns about being able to shave properly under my nose with the extended safety bar. I imagine another SE razor purchase at some point, and maybe a La Faulx, but I need time to use what I have coming and research a potential third razor.

While the Osprey looks fantastic, I decided on a fixed DE razor for the reasons stated above.

Since I have never used anything titanium in my razors, the combination of Blackbird's renowned efficiency in titanium seems likely to combine for more variety from what I currently use. Blackland's generous return policy made the decision easy.

With two new razors en route and my desire to use them as well as getting fully acquainted with my existing razors in comparison, I am set until the next bout of AD hits. I am also expecting three new brushes in the mail, so I have an entirely new shaving experience ahead!

Thanks for all of your input!

 

[Quaznoid]

I shave SE and DE. The Schick injectors are IMHO the best shaving razors in the world. With a yellow package Chinese made Schick blade, they cannot be beat.

If you want adjustability, pick up a Schick M from the sixties and seventies. A wide range of adjustments to fit every face. I’ve used one and marveled at
its quality and performance. You won’t find a bad review anywhere.

I’ve never paid more than $17 for a razor and have 3 Schicks in my rotation. Scout around before you spend $$$ unnecessarily.

 

[wetshaver233]

I have an Osprey and it's a decent razor, but like pretty much any other DE, it's a completely different beast compared to a SE razor. If you like very high efficiency, then the Osprey might not be for you. I'm using mine on setting 9 and it's great, but it could be better. The good news is that Blackland offers 30 days trial, so if you don't like the Osprey, you can always return it and get your money back.

 

[Quaznoid]

That’s great

 

[BigAlVista]

I thought I was looking at Twitter for a minute

Blackland makes great stuff. An Osprey will likely land in my den someday.

I don't have a ton of experience with adjustables (just a Konsul and Muramasa), but, I dial them in based on the blade. For example, I'll set my Muramasa just below "4" for the German Personnas, but just over "4" for a Wizamet.

That all said, I get a better shave with my Blackbird OC with the Wizamet compared to the Muramasa, and a better shave with my Blackbird Lite with that German Personna vs the Muramasa.

If I'm being honest with myself, if I had just three good razors (mild, medium and aggressive), and a few different blades, I'd have a lifetime of great shaving, no?

For me, it's having awesome options that makes this fun. Monday: "Hmm, maybe the Timeless with a Kai blade". Tuesday: "Let's do the Konsul at a mild setting with a PermaSharp". Wedesday: "Let's put the Kai in the Muramasa at 3.5". At that point, it is as much about self indulgence as it is about a great shave.

The Osprey looks beautiful, and has lots of great reviews. Will it outshave a Blackbird, assuming you had Lite and Std plates? Who knows. But, if it gives you pleasure to own it and it's within budget? Enjoy, I say!

 

[railer489]

Sadly, the Osprey just wasn't for me. I enjoy adjustable razors. My Top three are the Gillette Fatboy, Gillette Slim, and Rex Konsul.

For me the Osprey didn't deliver as good a shave as my favorite three. I also had issue with it not being very friendly to adjust. I also found the numbers difficult to read.

Albeit like anything else shaving...YMMV.

If you buy into an Osprey I hope it brings you happiness.

 

[luvmysuper]

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GROW UP.

 

[huck1680]

I have a couple of SE's (1/2 DE blade variety) the Twig "Thorn" and the Robin "Snap" razor. I like both even though they're aluminum, which I generally don't care for.

 

[huck1680]

Sadly, the Osprey just wasn't for me. I enjoy adjustable razors. My Top three are the Gillette Fatboy, Gillette Slim, and Rex Konsul.

For me the Osprey didn't deliver as good a shave as my favorite three. I also had issue with it not being very friendly to adjust. I also found the numbers difficult to read.

Albeit like anything else shaving...YMMV.

If you buy into an Osprey I hope it brings you happiness.

I have the Pearl Flexi OC and have found it to be a very good, efficient razor that's solid brass and not very costly