Newbie DE choice..

**mk1** · 06-10-2010, 12:53 AM

Hi all,

I have had a Wilkinson Sword Classic for a while now (only one sold in local shops and just got it to try), but wanted to get something a bit nicer and better since the shave is a bit lacking.

I have read numerous posts on here and think the Merkur HD looks a good shout.. But am also tempted by the Gillette Superspeed and Gillette Slim.. As much for the style and TTO as anything. I do not think I will be adjusting during shaves, but perhaps an adjustable Slim would allow me to try more aggressive shaves as I progress?

I am happy to get 2, but probably won't get both Gillettes - so does anyone have any opinions on which of these they prefer and also any tips on buying - best years, etc..

Availability will also play a part in my decision, so if anyone is selling feel free to get in touch (although I am in the UK).

**Luc** · 06-10-2010, 01:12 AM

Welcome to B&B!

Have a look at the Buy/Sell/Trade (BST) section of this forum, you should be able to find a good deal. I don't like adjustables but that's me. The merkur HD is a very good razor and the Superspeed is a different beast...

See the reviews, it should help you

MerkurHD: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthr...p?ltr=M&t=1778
Gillette Superspeed:

Gillette Slim: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthr...p?ltr=G&t=3412

**TiberiuR** · 06-10-2010, 01:21 AM

Also take a look at the Muhle or Edwin Jagger razors.
There are at least 3 sellers in the UK that have them.

I have the Muhle R89. And the R106. And the R41

They are great razors. They are forgiving, so that you can safely play around with the shaving angle without fearing you might hurt yourself too bad.
I started out with a HD, but I much have preferred to start with a Muhle razor.

I don't want to influence you in your decision. Buy whatever you think is best for you.

**Duncanh48** · 06-10-2010, 01:29 AM

Originally Posted by TiberiuR

Also take a look at the Muhle or Edwin Jagger razors.

I would have no hesitation in recommending the Muhle R89 or the Edwin Jagger DE89L, both share the same head but have different handle, for me the Muhle is easier to grip.

**ackvil** · 06-10-2010, 08:04 AM

Originally Posted by Luc

Welcome to B&B!

Have a look at the Buy/Sell/Trade (BST) section of this forum, you should be able to find a good deal. I don't like adjustables but that's me. The merkur HD is a very good razor and the Superspeed is a different beast...

See the reviews, it should help you

MerkurHD: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthr...p?ltr=M&t=1778
Gillette Superspeed:

Gillette Slim: http://badgerandblade.com/vb/showthr...p?ltr=G&t=3412

**mk1** · 06-10-2010, 08:57 AM

Thanks all for your replies!

Luc, thanks for all those links.. I tried digging through the reviews before posting, but did not find all of them! I didn't realise the BST section was separate, but will have a look!

I had not come across the Muhle or EJ before, but I do like that R89.. you have given me a tough decision! Will have to see what is available..

Thanks!

Mark

**mdevine** · 06-10-2010, 09:25 AM

I have tried many razors and keep going back to the Super Speed. I used it again yesterday and as always it gave a great, comfortable, BBS shave. Plus you can get one very inexpensively.

**mk1** · 06-10-2010, 09:33 AM

May I ask what year? Think I'm aiming for a '40s style.. The red tip seems to have great reviews.. but for more advanced users?

**Dustinl** · 06-10-2010, 10:09 AM

Originally Posted by mk1

I do not think I will be adjusting during shaves, but perhaps an adjustable Slim would allow me to try more aggressive shaves as I progress?

Absolutely. It took me about six months to work from #1 setting to #5 on my Slim. It took that long by choice and during that time, I was able to perfect my technique and try different blades at the different settings.

Welcome to Badger & Blade!!!

DL

**California Cajun** · 06-10-2010, 10:17 AM

Originally Posted by mk1

Hi all,

I have had a Wilkinson Sword Classic for a while now (only one sold in local shops and just got it to try), but wanted to get something a bit nicer and better since the shave is a bit lacking.

I have read numerous posts on here and think the Merkur HD looks a good shout.. But am also tempted by the Gillette Superspeed and Gillette Slim.. As much for the style and TTO as anything. I do not think I will be adjusting during shaves, but perhaps an adjustable Slim would allow me to try more aggressive shaves as I progress?

I am happy to get 2, but probably won't get both Gillettes - so does anyone have any opinions on which of these they prefer and also any tips on buying - best years, etc..

Availability will also play a part in my decision, so if anyone is selling feel free to get in touch (although I am in the UK).

I think you're on the right track with a major brand razor. I really like the Merkur HD but wanted something more aggressive and have been happier with the Merkur Slant (37C, 37G, 39C, 39G). I started out with a defective off-brand razor, which is why I suggest Merkur or vintage Gillette. If you want to experiment with different degrees of aggressiveness, I guess the adjustable is the way to go.

**jwhiskercut** · 06-10-2010, 10:27 AM

My first 3 razors were (in order of arrival) a '56 Superspeed, a Fat Handle Tech, and a '47 Superspeed. I don't think you can go wrong with any of those. If you want more aggressive, then a Slim would do the trick.

**Chester** · 06-10-2010, 10:32 AM

Originally Posted by jwhiskercut

My first 3 razors were (in order of arrival) a '56 Superspeed, a Fat Handle Tech, and a '47 Superspeed. I don't think you can go wrong with any of those.

+1. Looks like my first three, too.
-- Chet

**mk1** · 06-10-2010, 10:57 AM

Ok.. Well as I thought, they are all perfect!

I have put an add in the BST area for any of them.. so I guess it will depend more on what I can get! I had no intention of starting a collection.. but I know I will not stop until I have tried them now!

It's dangerous looking around these forums!

Thanks for the help!