Super Dave's first DE razor

[Super Dave]

Hey guys - new to the board.

Looking to join the DE cult - and I have done some research both here and on some of the vendors you recommended. Not sure where my beard stands compared to others, and from what I've read, I'll need to experiment. But I think I may have settled on a type and looking for your thoughts:
Merkur 38M HD Long Handle or the Merkur 23C Long. I like the idea of a longer, no-slip handle fo control. Since I shave in the shower and the handle will be wet. (Using a long pole made of horn or smooth crome may result in minor injuries.)

The 34C might be too short of a handle. I'll stay away from the slant for now.

Muhle R89 Double Edge has some very nice reviews as well.

But love reading about some of your antique razors - some from WWII or earlier. Very cool. Have to take a look at those as well.

Any thoughts are appreciated - next step is to get a blade sampler and experiment further.

Super Dave

[talibeard]

You have to start somewhere. The Merkur 23C is a nice middle-of-the-road starting point. At least as good is the much cheaper Lord LP1822 (with a likewise geometry) and the EJ/Mühle 89 types are highly rated for a reason.

You got the part on the blade-sampler right; get the most extended version you can lay your hands on as it is the blade that does the work in the end.

[KM-instructor]

You have to start somewhere. The Merkur 23C is a nice middle-of-the-road starting point. At least as good is the much cheaper Lord LP1822 (with a likewise geometry) and the EJ/Mühle 89 types are highly rated for a reason.

You got the part on the blade-sampler right; get the most extended version you can lay your hands on as it is the blade that does the work in the end.

Agree, and welcome to B&B.

[ChrisTWB]

You have to start somewhere. The Merkur 23C is a nice middle-of-the-road starting point. At least as good is the much cheaper Lord LP1822 (with a likewise geometry) and the EJ/Mühle 89 types are highly rated for a reason.

You got the part on the blade-sampler right; get the most extended version you can lay your hands on as it is the blade that does the work in the end.

+1 PS It is confirmed the EJs use the same head so if you want to upgrade to a nicer handled one, feel free to, you won't be wasting your money. I would be shocked if you didnt love the razor and at least keep it high in your rotation after expanding which is only bound to happen, RAD happens for a reason.. we get curious and can't stop.

[Sledgehammer39]

Go for the Muhle R89.

[El-a-Menthol]

Go for the Muhle R89.

Unboxing of my shaving-gear package from Mühle

[Super Dave]

Gents,

Much appreciated. I'll get started as soon as I get it in the mail. I might go with the Muhle and will look up reviews on the blade samplers.

Super Dave out!

[Greyfox]

Congrats.