Astras or Derbys?

[RPTheLefty]

Hi everyone,

I know I'm asking a very subjective question but I wasn't able to tell the difference between Astras and Derbys. I ran out of samples, and it's time to buy my first 100 pack.

I shave every other day and my facial hair is in-between (not so thick not so thin either). Since I shave every other day, my facial hair isn't long and difficult to cut. I currently use a de89 and a slim adjustable.

Here's what happened when I went through the sample:
I first tried the Derbys and they were pretty smooth. I was able to get pretty good shaves without any nicks or irritation.
When I tried the Astras, I didn't get nicks either. They honestly felt very similar to the Derbys.
I tried Feathers and got the smoothest shave so far but I got some irritation on my neck.

My question is what are your results between the Derby and Astras?
Also, what does the "right blade for you face" achieve? Do you get smoother shaves, have to do less passes, less irritation?
Should I just get a not so sharp blade like Derby or Astra since I shave every other day?

[Calnell]

Astras are my go-to blade. I find Derbys to be a little dull for my taste. For me, the perfect blade (matched with the right razor) just glides over my face. So smooth that I have to check to see if any whiskers actually got shaved. It's easy for me to do 3+ passes with no irritation. I can shave with most blades but the right combo makes it effortless and comfortable

[IA_Cabby]

Allow me to disagree with Calnell. I have 100 of both. When I run out, I'll be buying another 100 pack of Derbys.

[Almightys]

The 100 packs of either are cheap ($8-10 per 100). Buy either one and you may find over time your technique improves to feel more comfortable with a "Feather-type" blade.

[mdevine]

I bought 100 of each a couple of years ago and have used about 25 of both so far. They are my two favorite inexpensive blades. If I had to pick just one, the Astra SP blades would get the nod by a hair.

Mike

[merkur59]

Used to like astra and disliked derby. Now I prefer derby over astra. Something changed over time. Probably technque?

[demaro]

I think they are both great blades . I enjoy using Derby and Astra.

[Island Dreamer]

I have and use both. They are pretty similar in actual use.

[Kostas1]

I like both, but Astras a little more.

[The Kiwi]

I bought 100 of each a couple of years ago and have used about 25 of both so far. They are my two favorite inexpensive blades. If I had to pick just one, the Astra SP blades would get the nod by a hair.

I've never had any blades I didn't buy locally, and still don't, but I have some on their way. Astras, but when getting ready to order from Amazon, I really wasn't sure what an "SP" really is. The full name of the ones I've ordered is "Super Premium Platinum", I believe.

[attime6]

I use both however Astra SP's are better suited for my thick beard. This may not be the same for you.

[wurls]

I have used both, but give the nod to Astra's. Astra's because I find they slice through my coarser whiskers easier.
I like that Derby's have the used blade storage area on the bottom...something Astra could learn from.

[itsmedave]

I started out and didn't like Astras at all, but someone included them in with a razor and I like them enough now that I just bought 100 of em off Amazon for $9.50

[Adam M]

I have a 5-pack of Astra's I haven't tried but I started out using the Derbys. Then I bought some Shark SC's and I like them a bit more. I see you are nearby in the city, I'd be happy to give you 50 or so if you like, also could throw in a 5er of the Sharks if you haven't tried em. But you'd probably burn more in gas picking them up vs. buying 100 on Amazon hah

[big Paul]

Astra for me

[Yuritau]

For me, Derby's are the rusty machete of DE blades. I would recommend going for Astra.

[Vickers]

Early on I bought 100 of each. The Astras have been more agreeable with me.

[turtle]

Did you get a chance to try both in your new Slim?

At the price of both there is no need to decide which.... GET 100 of BOTH :lol:


http://www.amazon.com/Superior-Premium-Platinum-Double-Safety/dp/B001QY8QXM/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&m=AAEAL4S4CJG99&s=generic&qid=1333571396&sr=1-3

http://www.amazon.com/Derby-DE114-Double-Edged-Safety-Razors/dp/B0031BDGKQ/ref=sr_1_99?ie=UTF8&m=AAEAL4S4CJG99&s=generic&qid=1333571457&sr=1-99

[RPTheLefty]

Thanks for all your replies.

There are a lot of variables that I should limit. The only thing that is kept constant is the soap (VDH luxury) I use. Things that do change are the type of blades I use (derby and astra) and the razor (de89 and slim). Maybe I'd be able to tell the difference if I stuck to one set for one whole week but I'm too excited and I must try them all!

I think my technique is improving a bit. I used a feather in a slim set on 4. Not much irritation and my smoothest shave yet. I probably would stay with feathers if they weren't so darn expensive.

I noticed that when using Derbys, I got no irritation at all but the shave wasn't as close. With the Astras, I nicked myself a few times but the shave was closer (nicked myself probably because it was my first week). Maybe I have to revisit the Astras and keep them in there for a week using only one razor.

[Zarba]

Astras are my go-to blade. I find Derbys to be a little dull for my taste. For me, the perfect blade (matched with the right razor) just glides over my face. So smooth that I have to check to see if any whiskers actually got shaved. It's easy for me to do 3+ passes with no irritation. I can shave with most blades but the right combo makes it effortless and comfortable

What he said

[IA_Cabby]

Allow me to explain my post. I like them both. However, Astra IMO has poorer quality control than Derby. I literally can take a 5-blade tuck, and get 3 shaves out of 3 of them and 1 out of the other 2. I don't find that with the Derbys. I get 3-5 shave consistently with all of them.

[Mandina]

Your concluding observations sound to be on target--that is, as much as possible given that blade experiences/preferences are totally idiosyncratic and commonly change over time. I too find Derby's smoother and Astra's sharper. Both, however, are excellent blades--budget or otherwise. My principal blades have become Perma-sharp Supers and Gillette Yellows (both of which are made in the same Russian plant that makes Astra's), but I keep Derby's in my rotation as a less sharp but smooth and comfortable change-of-pace blade. I could easily use Astra's regularly, too.

[Mendel]

Astra SP is in my top three blades (the other two are Personna Lab & Gillette Yellows)

[RPTheLefty]

I did a small test today! I shaved half of my face using Derby and the other half using Feather w/ my De89. Wow, the half of my face that I used the Feather got a closer shave! The Derby did a great job too but I had to go over it one more time to even things out. I didn't get any irritation on either side of my face.

I definitely would like a blade as sharp (or maybe even a tiny bit less) as a Feather but not too pricey. Any recommendations? I know the Derby is at the lower end of the sharpness scale but I'm guessing a middle of the road blade would work best for me.

[wimbouman]

Astra + DE89 is in my experience a very good combination!

[Toddy]

The current Derbys are nowhere near as good as the original British made Derbys

[Daiku]

Astras have the forgiveness of Derby's, but none of the tugging and irritation. Astras all the way for me, especially in a DE89 or Tech.

[mongo1958]

One of the guys here told me about the Atras selling for $10 (box of 100) on Amazon. I looked it up and it's true.
See the link below.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001QY8QXM/ref=ox_sc_act_title_7?ie=UTF8&m=AAEAL4S4CJG99

[Island Dreamer]

The current Derbys are nowhere near as good as the original British made Derbys

Oh, do tell. With something approaching facts, please.

[cryhavoc]

I love the Derby's, they work better in most of my razors than the Astra SP's. The Astra's pull to much on my face. YMMV

[cryhavoc]

I did a small test today! I shaved half of my face using Derby and the other half using Feather w/ my De89. Wow, the half of my face that I used the Feather got a closer shave! The Derby did a great job too but I had to go over it one more time to even things out. I didn't get any irritation on either side of my face.

I definitely would like a blade as sharp (or maybe even a tiny bit less) as a Feather but not too pricey. Any recommendations? I know the Derby is at the lower end of the sharpness scale but I'm guessing a middle of the road blade would work best for me.

Try the Gillette Yellow Perma Sharps!

[GencoOliveOilCompany]

Don't know why, but Derby's are not as smooth as Astras. Very noticable difference--the Derby's tug. They are going out of my rotation. Only have a couple packs left anyway.

[GencoOliveOilCompany]

Gillette 7 O'Clock green or yellow are mighty sharp. Also, much less expensive than Feathers.

[drawonme]

+1 on Astras

[RPTheLefty]

Hi everyone,

Ive been using Astras for the past week and even though they cut effortlessly, I'm left with razor burn. Derbyshire gave me an irritation free shave but tugged even on the first shave. Feathers were a little too harsh (maybe harsher than the Astras).

What other popular blades is there left to try? I'm not too familiar with the other blades out there.

[Vickers]

Hi everyone,

Ive been using Astras for the past week and even though they cut effortlessly, I'm left with razor burn. Derbyshire gave me an irritation free shave but tugged even on the first shave. Feathers were a little too harsh (maybe harsher than the Astras).

What other popular blades is there left to try? I'm not too familiar with the other blades out there.

Blades can act very differently in various razors. I was getting ready to throw my Derbys away, until I put them in my R41 (from a suggestion here on B&B). They work great in that one.

As far as what to try next: how about some US-made Personnas? They have them on eBay for $12.99 shipped. Do a search on "personna double edge stainless" and look for the blue box.

[SteveWY]

What they both said! I tend to not get into the "best blade" or "which blade is better" questions becaise itt is all IMO and YMMV. But on this one I have to say I can't see any close comparison between Derby and Astra. At least for me. Both are good blades available at vey inexpensive prices (in bulk) and both seem to be the chosen ones for many here. But give me my Astras!

[Sledgehammer39]

I find the Astra's smoother and forgiving compared to the Derby.

[SteveWY]

Hi everyone,

Ive been using Astras for the past week and even though they cut effortlessly, I'm left with razor burn. Derbyshire gave me an irritation free shave but tugged even on the first shave. Feathers were a little too harsh (maybe harsher than the Astras).

What other popular blades is there left to try? I'm not too familiar with the other blades out there.


So many good blades to try. Many here would agree and suggest you try Red (Israeli) Personna, Personna Super (Lab/Meds), and the Gillette 7 O'Clocks. Astra SP is my #1 blade and now I have the Personna Super (Blue Labs) and they are a great blade for me.

[Calnell]

Allow me to explain my post. I like them both. However, Astra IMO has poorer quality control than Derby. I literally can take a 5-blade tuck, and get 3 shaves out of 3 of them and 1 out of the other 2. I don't find that with the Derbys. I get 3-5 shave consistently with all of them.

We definitely agree on the consistency of derbys. However, I get consistently dull shaves with them :innocent:

[tboyer]

Most here, including me give the nod to Astras, but they are both cheap enough, get them both

[RPTheLefty]

I think I found my blade! A member sent me a sampler back (Thanks again Duokun!) and I found I tried the "Personna Super" in a blue wrapper. I was able to get BBS with little irritation. Where can I buy these blades? I've noticed that there are Red Personnas. Are these the same thing?

Sounds silly, but what exactly does the right blade do for you guys? Close shave? No irritation? No tugging?

[Daiku]

I like Astra SPs as well as any blade out there. As for what it does for me...just what you suspected. A close shave with no (or very few) weepers, no abrasions, and no tugging.

I'm not a major Derby hater, because I have gotten good shaves on occasion with a Derby. Yes, there's a lot of tugging, and some minor discomfort, but the results can be pretty good.

Good choice with the Personna Super. That's a fine blade.

[Toddy]

Oh, do tell. With something approaching facts, please.

Unfortunately its so long ago since you could get them, and hence I don't have any available to compare with the current offerings. They were pretty sharp and you could get several decent shaves out of them, but they were last seen in the 70s.

However I'll leave you with a picture of the original wrapper.

235189

Note the "Made in Great Britain"

[Vickers]

I think I found my blade! A member sent me a sampler back (Thanks again Duokun!) and I found I tried the "Personna Super" in a blue wrapper. I was able to get BBS with little irritation. Where can I buy these blades? I've noticed that there are Red Personnas. Are these the same thing?

Go to eBay and do a search on "personna stainless 100" and you should be able to get 100 shipped to you for around $13.


Sounds silly, but what exactly does the right blade do for you guys? Close shave? No irritation? No tugging?

Yes.

:001_tt2:

If you happen across a blade that gets generally positive reviews here that doesn't seem to agree with you...try it in another razor.

[MACGI98z28]

I have used both Astra and Derby.

The Astras are just a tad better and maybe last one more shave than a Derby blade. They are both cheap enough that if you only got three shaves from them, they would still kill any cartridge.

[ShavefanGP]

+1. I started with Derby and went to Astra..


Astras are my go-to blade. I find Derbys to be a little dull for my taste. For me, the perfect blade (matched with the right razor) just glides over my face. So smooth that I have to check to see if any whiskers actually got shaved. It's easy for me to do 3+ passes with no irritation. I can shave with most blades but the right combo makes it effortless and comfortable

[RPTheLefty]

Thank you for the replies. You guys are right, the blades are so cheap that I should just buy a 100 pack of both of them :)

[Nanker/Phelge]

Derby's. Astra SP's and I don't get along so well.

[willyb]

I love the Derby's, they work better in most of my razors than the Astra SP's. The Astra's pull to much on my face. YMMV



Exact opposite for me! Good thing we can all find what works best for us. Every face is different.

[talibeard]

I can't be of help in this demonic choice; I avoid both blades like the plague.....:lol:

[thatsilverguy]

OK, I am new to DEs but, for the same price point as Astras and Derbys, what's wrong with Dorcos?

[incucrash]

Derbys suck

[wallstreet77]

Depends on the hardware. Debys are better when using a Merkur but astras win when using a gillette. Its all about the blade angle.

[Rengrave]

For me, Derby's are the rusty machete of DE blades. I would recommend going for Astra.

Pretty much this, for me as well. I find Derbys way too rough. Astras on the other hand are smooth, one of my favorites, and my regular go-to blade.

[Forestsandman]

I have sensitive skin and when going through my first sample pack I was excited to try the Astras because of their reputation. It turns out its very true, these blades are very forgiving and you can get away with murder unlike with a feather. These are my go-to and I just bought a 100 pack... For $9.95. That's a steal.

[rm71]

What about Supermax Super Platinums? They are nice blades and well worth the try IMO.

[kosby]

I have a coarse thick beard and shave daily. I've used both and while the Astra isn't a bad blade, Derby is the one that works for me. I too use a de89 most of the time.

[Rustonrazor]

I will throw in my vote for Derby. I am about to buy a 100 pack myself.

[Rustonrazor]

Depends on the hardware. Debys are better when using a Merkur but astras win when using a gillette. Its all about the blade angle.

hadn't thought of that, but Derby does work well with my merkur razor. Of course YMMV and YRMV.

[NICKED&CUT]

Depends on the hardware. Debys are better when using a Merkur but astras win when using a gillette. Its all about the blade angle.

+1

[Valerius]

+1

[COHunter]

I've done the rounds on a couple of sampler packs that had both Derby and Astra. I just ordered 100 pack of Astra's. They have become my go to blade, all blades I use have to perform for 3 shaves and the Astra does very well. I'm a head shaver so I figure each blade is really lasting 5-6 shaves if I only were shaving my face, so for the price I can't beat it. The Derby pulls and tugs too much in my experience, so they're just there in case of emergency.

[DaveL]

Well, as always, YMMV. I like Astras, Derbys don't really work fo me.

[Everett529]

Astra SP's get my vote on this one. I have nothing against Derby though. I used them to start, then switched to Astra, and many other blades from there. I wasn't using the Derby's that I had, so I PIF'd them, and haven't felt the need to buy anymore.

[YuriZhivago]

Finally took the plunge into a 100-pack of Astra SP's last week. I have been using Feathers, an old stockpile of Gillette Platinum Plus, real Wilkinson's (from the 70s) from my father and WallyWorld Personnas. I'm a huge pre-war OC fan. Those Astra SPs are really great blades, and at about $0.09 each, they're quite a bargain. I had purchased Derbys last year and found them acceptable, but I have reached 5 shaves on one Astra and it's finally beginning to tug. After almost two weeks with them, they have now become my go to blade.

[ReGZ_93]

I think I found my blade! A member sent me a sampler back (Thanks again Duokun!) and I found I tried the "Personna Super" in a blue wrapper. I was able to get BBS with little irritation. Where can I buy these blades? I've noticed that there are Red Personnas. Are these the same thing?

Sounds silly, but what exactly does the right blade do for you guys? Close shave? No irritation? No tugging?


My answer would be all of the above. My perfect blade allows me to get the smoothest shave with the least irritation, and no tugging.