Feather SS (New One)

[James1983]

Hello

Anyone seen these new razors or know where to get one in the US or Canada yet? They seem to be a new design and more user friendly.


They have almost a hollow grind on one side and are resin scaled. I seen posted here before a Japanese ad for them. now I Cannot find even a photo.

They are not the artist club series its a new one.

James

[O.G.]

heres the website:

http://feather.co.jp/jBarber_professional.htm

[Cos0]

Those look pretty interesting. I'm going to talk to my friend in Japan and see if he can send me one.

[ostrich]

That "F system" thing is nuts. Wish I had a yellow AC RG too :thumbup1:

[Bengkia369]

They are still known as Artist Club SS.

http://feather.co.jp/Barber/artist_club/ss_00.jpg

[O.G.]

Can anyone order me one?

[dpmtherrien]

I'm sure Telly will be along on these. He's the go to guy for Feather or Kai razors as well as some great deals on Feather blades. He gets them right from Japan. :thumbup1:

[TstebinsB]

All I could find out was that the SS models are supposed to give a smoother shaving experience. Apparently, the blade sits deeper into the housing by 0.2 mm. According to Feather, that and the shape should give users less irritation.

[Rapier]

From what I gather on their images and posters, the little bulge right before the blade exposure creates a depression in the skin as the razor moves across the face. This "seems" to be advantageous to line up the right angles. Again, this is from marketing information ;-) so beware as with all marketing "information."

[StillShaving]

I am very curious to try one out, as it looks like something that should work well. It appears that the bump on the blade holder acts as a rest, allowing the user to shave with more pressure, or more speed, or more generally with a sloppier technique since the there would be 2 points of contact on the skin instead of one. Giving this razor some of the characteristics of a DE safety bar, but with much more adjustability.

[Sejanus]

I've got one of these guys on the way to me soon so I will be very curious to see how it stacks up to my Feather DX and KAI Captain Excelia. :thumbup:

[Bengkia369]

I've got one of these guys on the way to me soon so I will be very curious to see how it stacks up to my Feather DX and KAI Captain Excelia. :thumbup:

pls do reviews, thanks!

[Seraphim]

I've got one of these guys on the way to me soon so I will be very curious to see how it stacks up to my Feather DX and KAI Captain Excelia. :thumbup:

I think folks would be interested in finding out where you ordered it from?

[smitty]

any body seen them for sale yet

[Sejanus]

I think folks would be interested in finding out where you ordered it from?

I just have a friend in Japan who was able to arrange one for me.

[smitty]

I've got one of these guys on the way to me soon so I will be very curious to see how it stacks up to my Feather DX and KAI Captain Excelia. :thumbup:

keep us posted on how it does:thumbup:

[Sejanus]

keep us posted on how it does:thumbup:

Will do! I've had lots of time with the DX and the Captain Excelia so I should be able to tell what is different/special about this SS verion pretty quickly. Fingers crossed at least. :lol:

[Sejanus]

I received my new Feather SS/Resin razor today. I received a Japanese style/Non-Folding version which matches my Feather DX & Kai Captain Excelia, so some comments may not apply to the Western/Folding version.

I haven't used it yet but first impressions seem good. It has nice weight and really good balance. The focrum is actually almost dead centre of the razor and it was VERY easy to balance on my finger. Hopefully this means it will be good to maneuver.

The metal is not shiny at all, it almost looks brushed and it is an interesting contrast to the DX. The blade area is rounded too instead of squared off so it is overall a very smooth look. The handle feels like silicone and there is no gap between the silicon and the metal which means it should be VERY easy to keep clean and maintain.

I plan on using it either tonight or tomorrow.

As a disclaimer: Normally I user Super Pros but I am currently out of them. So I figure a good test will be to use either Standard Pros (which tear my face up badly most of the time) or the included Pro Guards. This should make it very clear from day one if this thing is truly 'more protecting/milder' than the DX/RG.

[mzarra]

Will do! I've had lots of time with the DX and the Captain Excelia so I should be able to tell what is different/special about this SS verion pretty quickly. Fingers crossed at least. :lol:

Where did you get ahold of a Captain Excelia? I have yet to find a US distributor.

[Sejanus]

Where did you get ahold of a Captain Excelia? I have yet to find a US distributor.

I was able to grab the Captain Excelia from Telly (TstebinsB). He sometimes gets ahold of some and puts them in the BSTs. He has also organized some group buys in the past. If you keep your eyes open you'll probably catch one of his listings.

[smitty]

lol i have been eyeing the lime green one and the pink one. i like some thing a little diff :em2300:

[dpmtherrien]

As one who uses both the Feather and the Kai, I'd be interested is getting one of these. Any chance of putting together a group buy? :confused1

[O.G.]

I received my Feather SS on Saturday in black the non folding one with the black handle and I can say after two days that it's an excellent shaver. It is really like a safety mixed with a straight razor. My skin is clear and not irritated. I really can almost eliminate stretching because it distributes the force very well to smooth an area out. I'll post pics later. Thanks T.

[smitty]

sweet:thumbup:

[maxman]

This sounds like something I would be interested in.
subscribed!

[Seraphim]

I received my Feather SS on Saturday in black the non folding one with the black handle and I can say after two days that it's an excellent shaver. It is really like a safety mixed with a straight razor. My skin is clear and not irritated. I really can almost eliminate stretching because it distributes the force very well to smooth an area out. I'll post pics later. Thanks T.

Different than the other Feather ACs? What blade were you using in there, etc?


I tried to pick one up when I was in Japan last week, but the only locale that Feather said had them was a barber supply store that was not easy to access from the train lines.

Looking forward to pics!

[smitty]

This sounds like something I would be interested in.
subscribed! +1 lol :thumbup: and that green one:drool:

[Sejanus]

I got around to shaving with mine this weekend as well. I used my standard Super Pro blades and got a good shave with it.

I did notice the angle of attack was a little different than with the DX and the Kai though. It might take another crack at it to really figure out the best angles and such. Overall for a first experience it was very neat. :thumbup:

More feedback as I play with it more.

[O.G.]

151307

151308

151309

[Seraphim]

Great shots!

The shape of the handle looks like it'd feel quite different in hand.

Any feedback on shave feel? By design it seems like it should shave like a DX loaded with a Light.

[smitty]

lol that one heck of a nice looking razor :drool:

[O.G.]

Although I'm probably not the only one with one after a week of use Ill give all information that I can muster up. As of now its lighter than the DX version. The handles plastic coating feels different. The blade sits a bit more into the holder. It give a comfortable shave better than the previous one thus far. After A week though Ill be able to add my input to it better.

[smitty]

sweet :thumbup:

[StillShaving]

I got around to shaving with mine this weekend as well. I used my standard Super Pro blades and got a good shave with it.

I did notice the angle of attack was a little different than with the DX and the Kai though. It might take another crack at it to really figure out the best angles and such. Overall for a first experience it was very neat. :thumbup:

More feedback as I play with it more.

Did you get a chance to try the regular Pro or Lite blades yet? My guess is that the SS will be more sensitive to blade exposure than the AC. That the shorter blades will work better, but that is just a hunch.

[Sejanus]

Did you get a chance to try the regular Pro or Lite blades yet? My guess is that the SS will be more sensitive to blade exposure than the AC. That the shorter blades will work better, but that is just a hunch.

You probably are correct based on how they seemingly designed this razor but only one way to find out. :thumbup:

I don't have any Lites here with me but I do have some standard Pros which I can throw in there.

I did also try (because it came with them) the Pro Guards with decent results.

[StillShaving]

You probably are correct based on how they seemingly designed this razor but only one way to find out. :thumbup:

I don't have any Lites here with me but I do have some standard Pros which I can throw in there.

I did also try (because it came with them) the Pro Guards with decent results.

Are you saying the Pro Guards came shipped only side the Razor in the box? If so, sounds like the Pro or Pro Guards may be "right" size to take advantage of the new head design, and to maintain optimal shave angle. In any case, I suppose new users will want to experiment with the different blades (exposures) to see what works best for them.

[Sejanus]

Yes, a box of Pro-guards was inside the original packaging of the razor. I am still playing around with the other blade types but I am sure they will all work to varying amounts once you get the hang of them.

[Drybonz]

It's been a while since anyone commented here... just curious as to whether a US vendor has turned up for these new feathers?

Thanks.

[BobS]

Is this the same razor?

http://www.classicshaving.com/catalog/item/1240646/795253.htm

[Bengkia369]

Is this the same razor?

http://www.classicshaving.com/catalog/item/1240646/795253.htm

nope, tats the older Artist Club DX.

[TstebinsB]

It's been a while since anyone commented here... just curious as to whether a US vendor has turned up for these new feathers?

Thanks.

There isn't one and there won't be one in foreseeable future. I spoke to Classic Shaving about it and they said that they won't be carrying it.

[StillShaving]

There isn't one and there won't be one in foreseeable future. I spoke to Classic Shaving about it and they said that they won't be carrying it.

Interesting. Isn't this like some US based European car import dealer saying they will not import the latest Ferrari? It is hard to judge this razor from afar, it looks like it will give more forgiving shaves when compared to the feather AC, but that it may be a detriment when compared to learning to shave with a proper straight.

[Drybonz]

There isn't one and there won't be one in foreseeable future. I spoke to Classic Shaving about it and they said that they won't be carrying it.

Hmmm... that's too bad. Thanks for the info, though.

[Seraphim]

Maybe a request to Italian Barber?

[michiganlover]

Maybe a request to Italian Barber?

He would be the logical person to carry it, as he is an official Feather Distributor for North America. :thumbup1:

[Drybonz]

http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showpost.php?p=3072704&postcount=185

[KittensAndRainbows]

I've been using a Kai/Feather AC for a while now, so this definitely has my interest. Gonna post in the WTB, and cross my fingers.

[Osborn Cox]

http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showpost.php?p=3072704&postcount=185

I checked with Joe at Italian Barber regarding this yesterday and was told if everything goes according to plan it will be the early 2012.:thumbdown

[Kentos]

Gazooks 2012?! I just tried a shavette and was looking forward to adding another notch to the barbers pole after trying the SS... I guess it's gonna be a long wait.

[Blue Raccoon]

well they are on the Feather JP site.. if anyone here can read Japanese will the ship to the US?

http://www.feather.co.jp/jBarber_professional.htm

if anyone has an 'in' over there I would be first to join a group buy!

[Kentos]

It's meant for the japan market only. Tje
Online vendor/buying agent I found won't ship outside of Japan unless you use a freight forwarder or something along those lines...and so shipping may be high. The japan retail is 7,350 yen, around $100.00 depending on yen rate, according to:

http://blue21.ddo.jp/home/market_item.html?type=rakuten&cd=ribitsu%3A10000694&rg=201461&rgt=美容理容サロン用品の理美通

Can't link it on my iPhone.

I would also like to get one too, group buy or otherwise.

[instpasr]

if someone could organize a group buy somehow I'd be interested in one.

[TstebinsB]

snip.. and so shipping may be high.

Indeed. I was able to get it for $135 shipped. Shipping charges, PayPal fees, and bank fees were the reason for the jump in price.

Many months ago, I saw it being sold for considerably more. That was during the initial, limited run. Only recently did Feather put them on the market again and for a reduced price.

[Drybonz]

Indeed. I was able to get it for $135 shipped.

Was that for the folding version? I don't think that's too bad really, considering the base model sells for $100 at Italian Barber. I think I might like to pick one up before 2012, seeing as how the world will be ending, etc, etc...

[Sejanus]

I'd consider buying a 2nd one of these guys. I have the non folding (as mentioned before) but am impressed enough I might want to double up and get a folding version just for some variety.

I think I might prefer this model to the AC DX too... still on the fence about that one.

[Seraphim]

I'd consider buying a 2nd one of these guys. I have the non folding (as mentioned before) but am impressed enough I might want to double up and get a folding version just for some variety.

I think I might prefer this model to the AC DX too... still on the fence about that one.

Can you expound a bit more about this? Feels better while using it? Or actually performs better than the DX?

[Sejanus]

Can you expound a bit more about this? Feels better while using it? Or actually performs better than the DX?

Sure I can do my best.

I think it is a combo of two different factors, the weight (or at the very least weight distribution) and the new system for holding the blade. I just went over and weighed them and the AC DX comes out at around 47 grams while the new SS model comes out at 42 grams. I also feel like the head of the DX is a LITTLE heavier than the SS.. but honestly it could be my imagination.

Otherwise the SS model holds the blade a little farther in (as has been mentioned before in this thread) and I think it makes a difference during the shave. I think it is agreed on the AC razors are relatively unforgiving with the sharpness of the blades and if you aren't paying attention it can come back to haunt you pretty badly. The new SS model however somehow feels like you have a little more margin for error, even if the blade is as sharp.

The closeness of both seems the same though.. so it is all relative and kind of hard to explain.

It isn't scientific, but hopefully that answers your question? :001_smile

[dpmtherrien]

Sure I can do my best.

I think it is a combo of two different factors, the weight (or at the very least weight distribution) and the new system for holding the blade. I just went over and weighed them and the AC DX comes out at around 47 grams while the new SS model comes out at 42 grams. I also feel like the head of the DX is a LITTLE heavier than the SS.. but honestly it could be my imagination.

Otherwise the SS model holds the blade a little farther in (as has been mentioned before in this thread) and I think it makes a difference during the shave. I think it is agreed on the AC razors are relatively unforgiving with the sharpness of the blades and if you aren't paying attention it can come back to haunt you pretty badly. The new SS model however somehow feels like you have a little more margin for error, even if the blade is as sharp.

The closeness of both seems the same though.. so it is all relative and kind of hard to explain.

It isn't scientific, but hopefully that answers your question? :001_smile


I've found this to be the case. The SS is a little more forgiving yet it still gives an excellent shave. I have both the folding and the non-folding that I got through Telly. Both are excellent razors, and a very nice addition to the regular Feather AC's. :thumbup1:

[Sejanus]

I've found this to be the case. The SS is a little more forgiving yet it still gives an excellent shave. I have both the folding and the non-folding that I got through Telly. Both are excellent razors, and a very nice addition to the regular Feather AC's. :thumbup1:

Good to know the Folding version is just as good. Makes me want to get one to match my non-folding even more. :lol:

[Drybonz]

Can you guys that own these post some good sources (international is fine) for ordering the folding version?

[Seraphim]

I emailed Feather directly the last time I was in Osaka, and the only outlet they recommended was some kind of barber supply place that I could not get to easily from public transportation.

Straight gear is about as common in Japan as it is here in the US, i.e.- not very widely available...

[StillShaving]

I emailed Feather directly the last time I was in Osaka, and the only outlet they recommended was some kind of barber supply place that I could not get to easily from public transportation.

Straight gear is about as common in Japan as it is here in the US, i.e.- not very widely available...

Interesting comment, but I suppose it should not be surprising. Which begs the question, who does Feather consider as their primary market for these straight razors? Are they looking to sale to professional barbers in Japan? Barbers worldwide? Or capture the small market of people like us who strangely prefer this type of shave?

Given the total lack of name/product recognition in the general public, if they could only hire a famous celebrity to evangelize their product it might actually impact their sales volume.

[Kentos]

On the Japanese website all factors point to it being used solely by hair professionals. The consumer side is targeted with a Mach 3 style cartridge razor. The sales blurb for the new SS states that the new handle is better engineered for women's smaller hands, and cites hair salon customer testimony as proof if it's improved characteristics.

[Sejanus]

Whatever Feather's main market is (I have watched their factory tour video.. which kills me every time I watch it. The guy who narrates the English version of that video is the same guy who dubbed over Chairman Kaga on Iron Chef. I just can't get over that fact!) I am glad they are around. Loooove Feather. :thumbup1:

[Seraphim]

Whatever Feather's main market is (I have watched their factory tour video.. which kills me every time I watch it. The guy who narrates the English version of that video is the same guy who dubbed over Chairman Kaga on Iron Chef. I just can't get over that fact!) I am glad they are around. Loooove Feather. :thumbup1:

Link please?

[Sejanus]

Link please?

Here you go!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmQYBucXB4g

[Osborn Cox]

I just finished my first shave with my new Feather Artist Club SS. My first impression was that its very modern looking if not a little plain, but I didn't buy it for its looks. I was very tenuous with the first couple of short strokes after reading how spooky sharp these things are and how its easy to cut yourself. But after a couple of strokes I could tell what I was in for, and it was good. I didn't find that I had to alter my technique really from how I use a shavette or even a traditional straight. I did 3 passes with a KAI Captain Mild blade, WTG, XTG, ATG and the results were fantastic. No nicks, weepers, or irritation, and very smooth, quite effortless even in the usual trouble spots.

I've never used a standard Feather AC, so I can't compare the two but this one is a keeper. Eventually I think I'm going post to see if somebody with a RG or DX wants to do a swap for a week or two to compare them.

[global_dev]

anyone organizing a buy of these SS models anytime soon? if so, please count me in...

[Blue Raccoon]

My Feather AC/SS (non-folding) arrived yesterday.. shaved this morning using a Feather Pro blade. I did two passes N->S and a S->N and a little cleanup around goatee. DFS+ and no blood. I upgraded from the Feather non-folding RX and this one is much more nimble. I'm going to order some of those Kai blue blades just to see but can't see how they could do much better.

[gsurko]

anyone organizing a buy of these ss models anytime soon? If so, please count me in...

+1

[ryp]

anyone organizing a buy of these ss models anytime soon? If so, please count me in...

+1

[KittensAndRainbows]

My Feather AC SS arrived a few days ago, I've had three shaves with it since. It definitely has a different feel from my Kai Captain Excelia. I've gotten some great shaves with it, but I'm still trying to put my finger on what the differences are. It feels more aggressive, but I could be wrong.

[Whisker Biscuit]

My Feather AC SS arrived a few days ago, I've had three shaves with it since. It definitely has a different feel from my Kai Captain Excelia. I've gotten some great shaves with it, but I'm still trying to put my finger on what the differences are. It feels more aggressive, but I could be wrong.

Non folding? Whats your pros & cons compared to the excelia. I'm thinking about getting either the feather or captain.

Also would you posting some good pics. I wanna compare the handles.

[Whisker Biscuit]

Is the AC SS designed to be a notch up or notch below the current Artist Clubs. Or are they meant to be a step in between the RG & DX.

Got two more questions; Is the resin handle through & through, or is it resin over metal?
And is the head plated brass like the RG or Solid SS like the DX?
Thanks

[Osborn Cox]

I've got one and the only question I can answer for you for sure is in regards to the handle. It is solid resin or some sort of nylon/plastic. I've looked around trying to find answers to these same questions, but unless you can read Japanese there is not much info available. I *believe* when I ordered mine Telly said it is solid stainless and not plated, but I didn't specifically ask him so I'm not really sure. Maybe he will chime in here with any info that he has. I can say that I am 100% happy with it, and really enjoy shaving with it.

[Whisker Biscuit]

I've got one and the only question I can answer for you for sure is in regards to the handle. It is solid resin or some sort of nylon/plastic. I've looked around trying to find answers to these same questions, but unless you can read Japanese there is not much info available. I *believe* when I ordered mine Telly said it is solid stainless and not plated, but I didn't specifically ask him so I'm not really sure. Maybe he will chime in here with any info that he has. I can say that I am 100% happy with it, and really enjoy shaving with it.

Thanks. I guess then what I would worry about now is the possibility of the handle snapping in my travel bag. Hmmmmm
Being an all ?plastic? handle and all.

[Seraphim]

I was able to grab the Captain Excelia from Telly (TstebinsB). He sometimes gets ahold of some and puts them in the BSTs. He has also organized some group buys in the past. If you keep your eyes open you'll probably catch one of his listings.


Thanks. I guess then what I would worry about now is the possibility of the handle snapping in my travel bag. Hmmmmm
Being an all ?plastic? handle and all.
I would imagine the engineers made the handle at least as durable as the one on the DXs, etc. And Ive never heard of one getting snapped in half.

The real trick is being able to order one in the first place.

[TstebinsB]

Non folding? Whats your pros & cons compared to the excelia. I'm thinking about getting either the feather or captain.

Also would you posting some good pics. I wanna compare the handles.

http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=16480

[Whisker Biscuit]

I would imagine the engineers made the handle at least as durable as the one on the DXs, etc. And Ive never heard of one getting snapped in half.

The real trick is being able to order one in the first place.
Wow! Those are plastic too? From the way those looked in pics it appeared to be a a rubber grip over a metal shank. I guess my worries about that was unfounded. I still manage to find ways to break things :)

[Kentos]

I've got one and the only question I can answer for you for sure is in regards to the handle. It is solid resin or some sort of nylon/plastic. I've looked around trying to find answers to these same questions, but unless you can read Japanese there is not much info available. I *believe* when I ordered mine Telly said it is solid stainless and not plated, but I didn't specifically ask him so I'm not really sure. Maybe he will chime in here with any info that he has. I can say that I am 100% happy with it, and really enjoy shaving with it.

The website say the razor is stainless, while the Japanese style is a silicone handle, the folding is resin. I don't have one to look at yet, but I would guess the silicone covers a stainless tang. See if a magnet sticks to the handle or something.

[Whisker Biscuit]

http://www.theshaveden.com/forum/showthread.php?t=16480

Cool thanks, so the SS has the smallest diameter handle. It's funny, I started out wanting the excelia, but now I'm digging the new SS even more. Man I gotta get my dove sold LOL.
I wonder how the round handle affects the grip & feel vs the more rectangle shape of the others.

[Whisker Biscuit]

Oh my, I think I forgot to say that I was referring to the Japanese non folding. My bad.

Japanese style feels more natural to me.

[Osborn Cox]

Oh my, I think I forgot to say that I was referring to the Japanese non folding. My bad.

Japanese style feels more natural to me.

Yeah, my comments were in reference to the folding version, I didn't realize you were asking about the non-folding. Sorry.

[StillShaving]

For me, the handle feel will be of secondary importance as compared to the shaving head. I have never seen that blade profile on any straight razor, disposable blade or not. I am curious how it feels when gliding across one's face.

[Whisker Biscuit]

For me, the handle feel will be of secondary importance as compared to the shaving head. I have never seen that blade profile on any straight razor, disposable blade or not. I am curious how it feels when gliding across one's face.

I definitely agree with you there.
Mostly I was referring to the way it felt in relation to finding the blade angle, while not not having to use visual referencing. The rectangle grip shape gives me the tactile sense of head angle. I was thinking maybe it being round on the SS you may lose the grip reference. Although, I guess it's still a moot point because it's easy to feel the blade angle just by shaving.

So anybody have new thoughts & feelings on these.