I got a PIF/gift from my local shaving shop in the form of a R41 razor head. The top cap does not seem to fit very well, but using my KCG - which is a R89 clone - I was able to mount the baseplate for a first shave. The fact that the top cap has QC issues does lead me to conclude that this is not the actual R41 and rather a clone.
I have always been in awe of the R41 based on reviews and videos I have read and seen. And still there was a little voice inside that said, if you would be given the chance would you shave with it just to find out? And now this opportunity presented itself.
So this morning I went through my usual prep (see A newbies journey into DE shaving - https://www.badgerandblade.com/forum/threads/a-newbies-journey-into-de-shaving.622889/post-11830932 for details and set up) and off I went.
There is definitely blade feel with this razor and it immediately told me two things: it means business and it wants respect. I used a very light touch and focused on zero pressure as well. I also used a more shallow (handle more horizontal to the face - or more parallel to the floor if you will) angle as this razor feels like it has a tendency to hook itself onto whiskers and thereby increasing the chance of nicking yourself.
I have had more comfortable shaves, but I must say that it was not at all as daunting as I anticipated prior to the shave. Just watch the angle and use small strokes. Even my usual Gillette Slanted and Gillette Slide strokes were easily performed. My trouble area is my chin and I was even more careful there than I was on neck and cheeks. And yes, there were a few weepers, but nothing compared to the Blood & Tears I was expecting.
I could also feel the razor providing a very close shave (on a day's growth) and after my first two passes I already achieved BBS levels in most areas of my face. I was thinking about stopping there, but I also wanted to know how this razor and I got along on an ATG pass. So I lathered up for a third pass and very gently and very shallow performed two ATG on the neck and one on the cheeks. Even mustache area was doable, albeit slanted and not bang on ATG. The final result was glass-like BBS (I do feel some very minor stubbles, but nothing serious).
I learned a couple of things:
- The R41 is all it is said to be. I am used to Fatip's so I know what efficient feels like, but to be honest this is next level
- It is just like a Jedi light sabre or maybe reference to Darth Vader is more appropriate given its reputation
- Level of comfort is less than Fatip - I did not fully enjoy the shave and did experience that raking sensation I read about
- I also found the level of maneuverability less than my Fatips.
- This is not a beginners razor as an entry razor, but it is also not for the overly experienced only either
- Technique is key here with light touch and no pressure
- Not sure if it is a daily driver for me, but if I have more mileage with it, it could
- Apparently I have gained sufficient experience and technique to use the R41 - and for me that is quite an achievement
If you are up for it and want to know the epiphany of DE shaving than you have to at least have tried the R41 once. I will definitely buy a replacement cap and install it on my spare Razorine handle to add this one to my rotation.
And a big thank you to Paul Kox from The Dutch Shaving Shop (www.dutchshavingshop.nl) for granting me this opportunity.
Cheers,
Guido.
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