merkur 38C questions

[scavenger]

For the last few days I've been using a Gillette slim adjustable cranked up to 6 or 7 and doing ok with 3 passes.Problem is this vintage razor is in pristine condition and I'm just not comfortable beating it up in everyday use so I decided to pick up a Merkur and took a liking to the looks of the 38C.Now the question for those familiar with that razor, will the 38C handle my ultra fast growing very tough beard or will I need something more aggressive?I have some facial hair so I need a slim maneuverable head and that probably rules out the Merkur vision and futur.To give you an idea how tough my beard is,a Gillette ' 64 ss just bounced off my beard and I tried 4 different blades my friends gave me to try out.I'm very new to de shaving so I would welcome suggestions for a razor that will handle a heavy beard without shredding my face.

[grouse79]

I also have a 38C which is the razor I use most often and a thick, dark, heavy growth. (Missing one day makes me look like I'm starting a beard.) It removes stubble very efficiently and it also has a reassuringly heavy and secure build.

Switching to Feather blades after trying a few in a sample pack resulted in my closest, most comfortable shaving experiences and I have stuck with them almost exclusively since.

How long have you been using a DE and what blades are you using? I would caution you against using the Feathers now if you've only been at it for a few weeks as they really are ninja sharp. Use something milder like a Derby until you feel confident with your technique.

I believe slanted razors are designed for gents with very heavy growth and I do have a slant version of the 38C (I can't remember the model number so I can't be a shaving geek yet!). This does work well but man is it unforgiving. You can feel the increased aggressiveness from the moment you put it to your face. So far I've only really used it on days when I'm not working so I can take more time and it doesn't matter too much if I make a mess of myself.

[Gruder]

Frankly, I'd think the 38C would do a better job than the slim. One caveat -- it's going to take you a week or so to get used to the new head geometry (no TTO) -- be sure you give it a fair shake before passing judgment. Good luck, and welcome to RAD!

[Shug]

I have been using the 38C for over 6 months and i find it does a great job for day to day work. Depending upon the blade you use (might have to try a few as always, with the obligatory warning about how sharp feathers are) I think it should accomplish what you want it to.

[Chuckaluck]

the 38 C is a great razor. Load it with a Feather and it is an awesome razor!:cool:

[scavenger]

The 38C sounds like a winner.Will the weight of the 38C cause any problems for an inexperienced de shaver or might the regular HD be a better beginners choice?

[pokermon919]

I've got one on the way, first DE razor. I'm sure I'll love it!

[Gruder]

The 38C sounds like a winner.Will the weight of the 38C cause any problems for an inexperienced de shaver or might the regular HD be a better beginners choice?

38C should be fine. The difference isn't huge (nor, for that matter, is the weight difference between a 38C and your slim). Just let the weight of the razor do the work.

[bungee]

I have been using the 38C for about 2 months now. I love it. The weight feels good and the balance is fine for me. I have been experimenting for these 2 months with different blades all the while working on technique. I am having a whole new set of issues now that I shaved off my goatee. Over time I will work through those also. My biggest concern is that I bought a SS to take with me when I travel. Compared to the 38C it feels so small. I want to get my technique down with the 38C, but by the same token I want to practice with the SS before I travel. Overall you will enjoy the 38C.

[scavenger]

Well I popped over to west coast shaving and ordered the 38C and a ten pack of feather blades.I'm going to set the feathers aside for a month or so till I get completely comfortable with the Merkur.

I thank you all for the great advise!! Now I have to go shopping for a mug as my old spice mug met the tile floor this morning :frown:

[Nick D.E.vious]

Well I popped over to west coast shaving and ordered the 38C and a ten pack of feather blades.I'm going to set the feathers aside for a month or so till I get completely comfortable with the Merkur.

I thank you all for the great advise!! Now I have to go shopping for a mug as my old spice mug met the tile floor this morning :frown:Glad to hear you're going to set aside time for the Merkur. At the same time I'm sorry to hear about your mug!

[Trius]

My only regret with the 38C/Feather combination is that I didn't try it sooner. :biggrin:

While I think getting used to the 38C with a "known" blade is a good idea, a month seems like a long time to me. That was about how long I waited and really, I could have done it sooner. After getting my technique down to no cuts and no/few weepers, having a go with a Feather is fine. Yeah, I was extra careful at first, but now I can zip along.

On days when I only have one day's growth, the Feather in a Krona (which is less aggressive than the 38C) is good for me. I like the head geometry of the Krona better.

[mk-ultra]

The 38C is one of my favorite razors. I haven't dared to use a Feather in it (yet). I've been using Red Personnas. I also love the HD and I can't really decide which is better. They're both in the rotation.

The 38C is the first DE I bought, so it is somewhat special. It is my special occasion razor, e.g., I made sure to use it on Valentine's Day.