Help me pick a merkur

**armenakadino** · 12-12-2009, 09:55 PM

I need help picking a merkur which do you think would be a good starter razor that still will give an awesome shave when I learn the technique

**JPM** · 12-12-2009, 09:59 PM

The 34C is a good choice, many use it as their first razor. I like that one, but you may also consider the 1904 Open Comb. Open Combs have a reputation as being an aggressive shaver, but my experience with the 1904 is that it is very forgiving.

I also suggest getting a blade sample pack from www.westcoastshaving.com and try out some different blades.

Good luck and Welcome to B&B!

**rickboone1** · 12-12-2009, 10:25 PM

The 23C is a nice choice and there just happens to be one for sale in the BST :)

**Robxcarlson** · 12-12-2009, 10:30 PM

I started with a 23c which I found to be a beautiful shaver. I have a 34c now which is just as nice. The only difference is the handle length and weight, with the 23c being longer and lighter but either makes a great beginner razor.

**theologist** · 12-13-2009, 03:06 AM

I wholeheartedly second the 23C. A little lighter, with extra length to enhance handling ~ but beautifully balanced. If I could only have one razor, the 23C would probably be it.

**Mr.Gentleman** · 12-13-2009, 03:11 AM

34c or 38c...

**highball** · 12-13-2009, 03:18 AM

Originally Posted by mr.gentleman

34c or 38c...

+1

**thunderball** · 12-13-2009, 03:28 AM

I started with the 1904 and still use it.

**cesium** · 12-13-2009, 04:48 AM

34c for sure. Check out the reviews section.

**rac** · 12-13-2009, 04:51 AM

hi
1904 ,nice and cheap ,good shave .
34c , another good one . good shave.

**Pike** · 12-13-2009, 05:02 AM

Are you dead set on a Merkur? A nice SS, Tech, or Krona is a fantastic newbie shaver and will give you years and years of service. A nice less expensive way to get you started out. Just MHO.

**Suzuki** · 12-13-2009, 05:06 AM

I also think that the Edwin Jagger razors are excellent first DEs.

I've not been overly impressed with the quality of the Merkurs, although I gather this has improved recently.

**sandmountainslim** · 12-13-2009, 05:25 AM

Originally Posted by ccoppola

Are you dead set on a Merkur? A nice SS, Tech, or Krona is a fantastic newbie shaver and will give you years and years of service. A nice less expensive way to get you started out. Just MHO.

+1 I also suggest vintage Gillette razors unless you are just set on a Merkur.
Wp

**curtis909** · 12-13-2009, 05:29 AM

Originally Posted by highball

+1

+2

**David in Boston** · 12-13-2009, 06:04 AM

Originally Posted by rac

hi
1904 ,nice and cheap ,good shave .
34c , another good one . good shave.

If your set on a Merkur then you can't go wrong with either.

Got both and they are great shavers.

**ShaveAddict** · 12-13-2009, 06:38 AM

Originally Posted by thunderball

I started with the 1904 and still use it.

+1 the 1904 is very cheap and it's a fine shaver.

**dignifried** · 12-13-2009, 06:59 AM

Get a Barberpole slant and if you don't get on with it I would be happy to take it off your hands

**dreadpirate** · 12-13-2009, 07:08 AM

Get a Gillette Super Speed (many variants to choose from - all great) - they are plentiful and cheap. Get the Merkur after you are more experienced - or maybe you'll just keep sing the Gillette .

**dreadpirate** · 12-13-2009, 07:14 AM

Originally Posted by Mr.Gentleman

34c or 38c...

I can't speak for the 34C - but I found the 38C to be too big and clumsy unless you have big hands and a horse-sized face. I will say the 38C is a great looking razor

**Copierguy** · 12-13-2009, 07:26 AM

34c has a lot of fans.

Gillette Super Speeds are great too.

Then there is the (___________) fill in the blank.

I'm telling now. Everyone thinks they can master their RAD.

But there are few who can, turn, go now and don't look back, for it is perilous.