The Worst Blade?

**k2clones29** · 07-27-2011, 06:59 PM

While I haven't been wet shaving for very long, I have been doing it long enough to know that the only universally accepted opinion amongst the community is that Feathers are the sharpest blade. But I wonder if there is a universal opinion as to what the worst blade is. I can't imagine there will be unanimous consent, but there has to be a clear winner (or loser, depending on your perspective).

So what do you think is the worst blade?

**Godan** · 07-27-2011, 07:05 PM

For me, it is a tie between Walmart 'Wilkinsons and Merkurs.

**Leonard1** · 07-27-2011, 07:10 PM

Nacet

**Codfish** · 07-27-2011, 07:15 PM

Originally Posted by Godan

For me, it is a tie between Walmart 'Wilkinsons and Merkurs.

I am convinced that whatever their value as blades, Merkurs are the worst-marketed.

To me, including a Merkur blade sample with razors recommended for new shavers is nearly suicidal.

They're going to be blamed for the poor first shave that new shavers often get. It took me nearly two years to try a Timor, which are rumored to be the same blade with different packaging. I like Timors, but am reluctant to ever try a Merkur again.

**kingmike** · 08-22-2011, 10:51 PM

Originally Posted by Godan

For me, it is a tie between Walmart 'Wilkinsons and Merkurs.

I used the Wilkinsons this morning and they are a thing of beauty!

**tblech** · 05-21-2012, 02:44 AM

Originally Posted by Godan

For me, it is a tie between Walmart 'Wilkinsons and Merkurs.

Anything Wal-mart does not suprise me one bit and I KNEW going in that Murker was going to be the very first "worst" blade mentioned. Thank you to Godan for upholding quality on our B&B!

**man00ver** · 07-27-2011, 07:43 PM

The least acceptable of the various blades I've tried has been Derby. To me, they seem rough and dull, even when palm-stropped.

I have a mental category of blades that I don't intend to ever bother with, based strictly on near-universal reports of suckage: Shogun, 7 a.m. (Bangladesh), current production Gillette Super Stainless (on the red card).

**redrako** · 07-27-2011, 07:46 PM

7 A.M. Blades

**Scott0079** · 07-27-2011, 08:22 PM

Treet "Blue Specials"

**RonV** · 03-23-2012, 10:07 AM

Originally Posted by redrako

7 A.M. Blades

I have to agree and then you have that wax to contend with- just adding insult to injury.

**John F** · 07-27-2011, 08:29 PM

Funny..

After a few samples I ordered 100 Derby's because I thought they were pretty good.

And the Feather blade gave me some razor burn.

There may not be any way around trying a bunch of blades and finding out what works and doesn't for each of us.

**Rhinehoth** · 01-28-2012, 05:41 PM

+1 on the Feathers. Although the Dorco st-301 are a close second for the worst blades I've tried.

**shamus** · 07-27-2011, 08:29 PM

Derby Vertical blades, Merkur and Dollar General "Dorco" blades have been the worst blades I've tried. I have a stash of Wilkinson Sword, Made in England, blades that are quite nice....but the German made are, IMO, the same as Merkur.

**penmanship** · 07-27-2011, 08:34 PM

for me, it's BlueBirds..................I'd get a better shave with a cheese grater (probably less irritation too)

**inkcoffee** · 08-09-2011, 08:53 AM

Originally Posted by penmanship

for me, it's BlueBirds..................I'd get a better shave with a cheese grater (probably less irritation too)

Bluebirds and Feathers are too harsh for me. Only blades I've sold so far from my massive stockpile because I hate them.

**SteveWY** · 03-23-2012, 09:50 AM

For potential Newbs... As I read through the "Worst Blade" posts, I realized I can't weigh in on my worst blade opinion. I did some homework as a lurker on B&B and other sites and based on reviews and opinions of many I steered clear of many of the aforementioned "worst blades". I went with a blade sampler of some popular/quality brands and found all to perform well. I found about 3-4 brands that were all very good and 2 that are solid any day, any time, go-to blades. Maybe I'm not very discriminating but I even do well with generic/rebranded blades.

Advice for Newbs... Do some upfront homework on consistent quality blades versus some obvious "losers" + Get a good balde sampler + Focus on prep and technique= Shave Sucess.

**plpenn** · 07-27-2011, 08:39 PM

Walmart Wilkinsons

**Chester** · 07-27-2011, 10:03 PM

Oh, well, for me, it's the vietnamese gillette thins.
-- Chet

**Pasha** · 07-28-2011, 12:12 AM

I got a couple dorco 300s that were pretty bad thatcame with a weishi razor. I later heard it was rumored to be chinese knock offs. Never tried to get another pack after that.